Expert’s answer: FOUNDATION Fieldbus architecture

There are three types of network architectures for FOUNDATION Fieldbus: star, line, and tree (or trunk) and spur topologies. Each FOUNDATION Fieldbus architecture offers advantages and disadvantages, so let’s break them down.

Star: This structure connects all devices directly to the control room without spurs or trunk. Typically, you’ll use this application for devices close to the control room. This topology has become rare because it needs the most cable of the three.

Line: This structure uses a single pair of cables to connect all devices. Many companies use the line topology because of its clear structure and low wiring cost.

Trunk (or Tree) and Spur:  This structure is based on a line. The trunk line runs from the control room to the junction box in the field, where each device connects to the spur on the device coupler.

FOUNDATION Fieldbus architecture
FOUNDATION Fieldbus – Copyright TURCK

In a distributed architecture, the trunk goes out to a single junction box, and all spurs come out of this box. The box contains one or several device couplers to support the desired number of spurs. In a highly distributed architecture, the trunk goes to multiple junction boxes. Each box will be smaller and closer to the field device, and each segment contains one segment protector or field barrier.

Other resources that might interest you

FOUNDATION Fieldbus troubleshooting!
My company has a FOUNDATION Fieldbus network, and when it rains, we have problems with the network stability! How can I solve this issue?
FOUNDATION Fieldbus Promass 200!
Can I have a loop-powered Promass 200 with a FOUNDATION Fieldbus device? And what’s the accuracy of the flow meter?
FOUNDATION Fieldbus junction box

How do I select a new junction box to connect to my FOUNDATION Fieldbus network?

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