scope:

This European Standard applies to controller device interfaces that provide defined interfaces between low voltage switchgear, controlgear, control circuit devices, switching elements and controlling devices (e.g. programmable controllers, personal computers, etc.). It may also be applied for the interfacing of other devices and elements to a controller device interface. This standard specifies requirements for controllers and devices utilising these interfaces, including not only the communication protocol specification, but also associated relevant electrical and mechanical characteristics. It also specifies the electrical and EMC tests required to verify the performance of each controller device interface when connected to the appropriate controllers and devices. This part 1 establishes a consistent terminology and format for the subsequent interfaces. It also harmonises requirements of a general nature in order to reduce the need for testing to different standards, increase understanding and facilitate comparisons of controller device interface standards. Those requirements of the various controller device interface standards which can be considered as general have therefore been gathered in this part 1. In addition to meeting the specific requirements stated in this part 1, the controller device interfaces included in this standard - are documented in the English language in accordance with the requirements specified in this part 1, - are already in use in commercial products and running in industrial plants, - are available in quantity and at low price, - are available from several sources and commercialised openly, - to satisfy the tests specified, amongst others, in EN 61000 4 2, EN 61000 4 3, EN 61000 4 4, EN 61000 4 5, and EN 61000 4 6 against the test levels specified in EN 50082 2, - have appropriate mechanisms for transmission error detection, - are open, widely accepted, well documented, stable and support inter operability, - are ...