ČSN EN IEC 62453-1 ed. 3

Enterprise automation employs two main data flows: a "vertical" data flow from enterprise level down to the field devices including signals and configuration data, and a "horizontal" communication between field devices operating on the same or different communication technologies. With the integration of fieldbuses into control systems, there are a few additional tasks to be performed. They can result in a large number of fieldbus- and device-specific tools in addition to system and engineering tools. Integration of these tools into higher-level system-wide planning or engineering tools is an advantage. In particular, for use in extensive and heterogeneous control systems, typically in the area of the process industry, the unambiguous definition of engineering interfaces that are easy to use for all those involved is of great importance.