BS EN 61158-4-22:2012 - Page 3

Industrial communication networks. Fieldbus specifications. Data-link layer protocol specification. Type 22 elements | Status: Withdrawn, Revised, Superseded

1 Scope

1.1 General

The data-link layer provides basic time-critical messaging communications between devices in an automation environment. This protocol provides communication opportunities to all participating data-link entities

1. a) in a synchronously-starting cyclic manner, according to a pre-established schedule, and
2. b) in a cyclic or acyclic asynchronous manner, as requested each cycle by each of those data-link entities.

Thus this protocol can be characterized as one which provides cyclic and acyclic access asynchronously but with a synchronous restart of each cycle.