ISA55, Hardware Testing of Digital Process Computers
Scope
This ISA Recommended Practice establishes a basis for evaluating functional hardware performance of digital process computers. A process computer is typically characterized by the capability to acquire real-time data from a process in analog or digital form. In addition, a process computer generally has the capability to provide analog and digital control signals to the process.
This Recommended Practice covers general recommendations applicable to all hardware performance testing, specific tests for pertinent subsystems and system parameters, and a brief glossary defining terms used in this Recommended Practice. It identifies the tests to be considered and, in most cases, provides recommended procedures. Detailed specifications are necessary to define system acceptance criteria. Such specifications shall be negotiated between the vendor and user before the system is contracted.
The tests may be performed at the vendor's factory, the user's site, or other suitable location. Furthermore, alternate methods of compliance such as certification of documentation of tests may be considered in place of directly performing the tests. Only equipment provided by the computer system vendor is within the scope of the Recommended Practice. Generally, this includes that equipment, from the input terminations to the output terminations of the computer system.
The scope of this Recommended Practice does not include computer software testing, although certain software is necessary to perform the hardware tests. The tests do not evaluate reliability or availability. Destructive testing shall not be performed unless specifically agreed to by the vendor and user. It is also not intended that the Recommended Practice encompass interconnected multi-computer systems. These systems involve unique complexities, primarily in their software and interconnecting hardware, which were not specifically considered in the preparation of this Recommended Practice.
Purpose
The purpose has been to create a standard to serve as a guide for technical personnel whose duties include specifying, testing, or demonstrating hardware performance of digital process computers. Basing engineering and hardware specifications, technical advertising, and reference literature on this standard (or by referencing portions thereof, as applicable) will provide a uniform interpretation of the digital process computer's performance capabilities and the methods used for evaluating and documenting proof of performance. Adhering to the terminology, definitions, and test recommendations developed will result in clearer specifications that should further the understanding between vendors and users.
A Word from the Chairman
There is no activity in this committee at this time.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
