Programmable Process Interfaces for Smart Bus Nodes

In Field Bus Systems intelligent functions are more and more shifted to the sensors. For the realization of these functions a powerful decentralized electronics is required directly at the sensor. At present extensive activities run to realize these intelligent functions near to the sensor. Such intelligent sensor systems in serial industrial networks are called Smart Bus Nodes. They are efficient low cost bus nodes combining an extensive software functionality with a very low power consumption. They are able to communicate on a higher OSI layer and to execute signal processing functions independently. A configuration of the process interface with the present circuit design possibilities can be done with analog multiplexers and programmable amplifiers. For the preparation of solution ways, we have in the last time the possibilities programmable integrated analog and digital Interface Circuits investigated.