FieldComm creates usability evaluation service for FDI device package developers

FieldComm Group has partnered with Bilfinger Maintenance to create a usability evaluation service for FDI enabled field instruments and systems.

The new service is available to field instrumentation suppliers and will be managed as an optional service. Instrument usability will be evaluated by Bilfinger technicians through a series of tests with several host applications and systems. At the conclusion of the evaluation the supplier will receive a report documenting the observations.

Devices that are tested will be evaluated for usability including the following criteria:

• Presence and appropriate configuration of all security certificates.
• Successful import of the FDI Device Package into each selected host system.
• Validation that the FDI Device Package identification parameters match the product nameplate.
• Operation of the FDI Device Package including:
• Proper display and functionality within the host.
• Upload and Download of field device configuration data from the device to the host and back.
• Faultless configuration of field device parameters with the FDI Device Package.
• Functionality of integrated User Interface Plugins (UIP).
• Ease of identification of all attachments found in the FDI Device Package.

According to Bilfinger Maintenance, FDI usability testing focuses solely on the user experience associated with operating specific devices and systems.

Suppliers who purchase the service will be able to evaluate their products against up to six host systems including:

• ABB FIM
• AMS FDI
• FieldCare
• iDTM / Pactware
• Instrument Inspector
• PDM

The cost for this service starts at $3,000.