The HART Communication Foundation added five enhancements to the HART Communication Protocol standard, simplifying device status notification and access to WirelessHART network performance. The enhancements also provide a basis for future device and system supplier innovation.

"Industry users requested a simple 'green light/red light' status report capability as well as key health and reliability indicators for WirelessHART networks," said Ron Helson, executive director of the foundation. "We listened and have added these important enhancements."

Enhancements are condensed device status indicators, which provide new commands and standardized support for clear and simple operator notification of device status; key performance indicators (KPIs) for wireless networks; HART Communication over Internet Protocol standardization, which specifies and standardizes the protocol between remote I/O systems, multiplexers and gateways, and host systems; discrete on/off functionality for devices; and an infrared device communication option for device configuration and maintenance that eliminates the need to open the device housing in hazardous areas.