StoneL Introduces FieldLink™ Program

Specialized Products and Services Reduce Cost and
Improve Reliability of Bus Networks in Process Industries

FERGUS FALLS, MN (June 1, 2001) – StoneL has introduced a new program of process networking products and services to facilitate the installation and improve the reliability of bus networks in processing plants, even those in hazardous environments. The Field Link™ program includes components that make bus network installation fast, easy and effective. FieldLink services include installation, design and training support, improving the reliability of the entire bus network.

According to StoneL president, Wally Stommes, “Networking field devices in processing plants dramatically reduces materials and labor costs versus traditional hard-wired installation. Intelligence resident in the field devices also provides feedback to the host computer for cost-effective predictive maintenance. The question is no longer whether or not to network, but which type of bus system to install and which components support that network.

“The answer to that question depends on the types of field devices (analog or discrete), preferred control system, distances involved in the network, and whether or not components need to be designed for hazardous environments. The FieldLink program, based on StoneL’s extensive experience with process networking protocols used in North America and Europe, provides plant design engineers and systems integrators with the products, design support and training assistance they need to network their processes most effectively.”

Network protocols currently supported by FieldLink include Modbus, AS Interface and DeviceNet. FieldLink services include network design support and training. StoneL’s FieldLink networking products include gateways, masters, power supplies, I/O modules, short circuit protection, switching tees, wiring connectors and other components that allow for the most cost-effective, reliable network installation, even in hazardous environments.

StoneL is partnering with control system suppliers to assure the smooth integration of FieldLink components with standardized bus protocols. They continually evaluate installation requirements for current and emerging bus technologies, including protocols such as Foundation Fieldbus, Profibus (DP, PA) and Ethernet. Development is now underway that will result in new products and services to improve installation efficiency, plant safety and network reliability. Several announcements are anticipated for later in the year.

For more information on FieldLink, contact StoneL, One StoneL Drive, Fergus Falls,

MN 56537. Toll-free: 800-843-7866. Phone: 218-739-5774. Fax: 218-739-5776. Website: www.stonel.com.

StoneL is a leader in process networking and valve communication technology. StoneL’s total FieldLink™ solutions focus on economically and reliably connecting field devices with the computer control architecture regardless of the bus protocol employed. Modular products and support services based on a broad range of experience allow StoneL and its Silver Channel integrators to respond quickly and appropriately to each customer’s processing plant network challenge.