Glossary
G-2
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Block
A logical software unit that makes up one named copy of a block and
the associated parameters its block type specifies. The values of the
parameters persist from one invocation of the block to the next. It can
be a resource block, transducer block, or function block residing
within a virtual field device.
Bus
The group of conductors that interconnect individual circuitry in a
computer. Typically, a bus is the expansion vehicle to which I/O or
other devices are connected. Examples of PC busses are the ISA and
PCI buses.
C
C
Celsius.
Cable
A number of wires and shield in a single sheath.
Communication stack
Performs the services required to interface the user application to the
physical layer.
Control loop
A set of connections between blocks used to perform a control
algorithm.
Control strategy
See
.
Controller
An intelligent device (usually involving a CPU) that is capable of
controlling other devices.
D
DD
See
Device Description.
Descriptor
A number returned to the application by the NI-FBUS
Communications Manager, used to specify a target for future
NI-FBUS calls.
Device
A sensor, actuator, or control equipment attached to the Fieldbus.
Device address
A memory address that you use to access a device in a computer
system.
Device Description
A machine-readable description of all the blocks and block
parameters of a device.
Device tag
A name you assign to a Fieldbus device.
