FS-8700-73 – BACnet MSTP

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1. BACNET MSTP DESCRIPTION

The BACnet Master-Slave/Token-Passing (MSTP) driver implements a data link protocol that uses the services of the RS-485 physical layer. See the FieldServer BACnet PIC statement for the level of conformance that this driver implements.


All information in a BACnet system is represented in terms of objects. The Object_Identifier is a 32-bit code that identifies the type of Object (also identified by the Object_Type Property) and its “Instance” number, which together uniquely identify the Object within its BACnet device. Theoretically, a BACnet device could have over four million Objects of a particular type. The Object_Name is a text string, which has a unique capability. BACnet devices may broadcast queries for devices that contain Objects with a specific Object_Name. This can greatly simplify project setup.


BACnet requires one Device Object to be present in every BACnet device. The Device Object makes information about the device and its capabilities available to other devices on the networks. Before one BACnet device starts control-related communications with another, it needs to obtain some of the information presented by the other device’s Device Object. Unlike other Objects, the Device Object’s Instance number must be unique across the entire BACnet internetwork because it is used to uniquely identify the BACnet devices. It may be used to conveniently identify the BACnet device from other devices during installation.


Standard object types are used to hold real time data and other information. Each Object Type is referenced by a number, for example 0 represents an Analog Input.


Each Object consists of a number of prescribed properties, the main property being the Present_Value. Objects are monitored and controlled through their properties. The Analog Input Object is representative of the Objects involved directly with control elements and many of its Properties reflect this.


The information that follows describes how to expand upon the factory defaults provided in the configuration files included with the FieldServer.

 

Max Nodes Supported

FieldServer Mode Nodes Comments
Client 1
Server 32

 

2. DRIVER SCOPE OF SUPPLY

2.1  Supplied by FieldServer Technologies for this driver

FieldServer Technologies PART #

Description
FS-8917-16 RJ45 to terminal connector cable

 

2.2  Provided by the Supplier of 3 rd Party Equipment

2.2.1 Hardware

 

Part # Description
BACnet Controller(s) on RS-485 Network

 

2.2.2 Optional Items

 

Part # Vendor/Manufacture

Description

FS-4301-00 FieldServer RS-232 to RS-485 converter

 

3. HARDWARE CONNECTIONS

The FieldServer is connected to the BACnet MSTP as shown in connection drawing.

Configure the BACnet MSTP according to manufacturer’s instructions.



 3.1 Hardware Connection Tips/Hints

 Follow standard RS-485 2-wire guidelines for installation. See connection diagram below.


 


4. CONFIGURING THE FIELDSERVER AS A BACNET MSTP CLIENT

For a detailed discussion on FieldServer configuration, please refer to the FieldServer Configuration Manual. The information that follows describes how to expand upon the factory defaults provided in the configuration files included with the FieldServer (See “.csv” sample files provided with the FieldServer).


This section documents and describes the parameters necessary for configuring the FieldServer to communicate with a BACnet MSTP Server.


The configuration file tells the FieldServer about its interfaces, and the routing of data required. In order to enable the FieldServer for BACnet MSTP communications, the driver independent FieldServer buffers need to be declared in the “Data Arrays” section, the destination device addresses need to be declared in the “Client Side Nodes” section, and the data required from the servers needs to be mapped in the “Client Side Map Descriptors” section.


Details on how to do this can be found below.

 

4.1  Data Arrays/Descriptors

Note that in the tables, * indicates an optional parameter, with the bold legal value being the default.

Section Title
Data_Arrays
Column Title Function Legal Values
Data_Array_Name Provide name for Data Array Up to 15 alphanumericcharacters
Data_Array_Format Provide data format. Each Data Array can only take on one format. Float, Bit, Uint16, Uint32, Sint16,Sint32, Packed_Bit, Byte,

Packed_Byte, Swapped_Byte

Data_Array_Length Number of Data Objects. Must be larger than the data storage area required by the Map Descriptors for the data placed in this array. 1-10,000

 

Example

// Data Arrays

Data_Arrays

Data_Array_Name , Data_Array_Format , Data_Array_Length

DA_AI_01 ,             Float ,                      200

DA_AO_01 ,           Float ,                      200

DA_DI_01 ,             Bit ,                         200

DA_DO_01 ,            Bit ,                         200

 

4.2 Specify the MAC_Address of the FieldServer

The MAC_Address is used on the Data_Link (or physical) layer as the source or destination address. See section 9.1.1.2 of the BACnet ANSI/ASHREA standard for more information.

Section Title
FieldServer
Column Title Function Legal Values
System_Node_ID Specify the MAC_Address of the FieldServer. 1-254

 

Example

 

// Bridge

Bridge

Title              , System_Node_ID

BACnet_MSTP , 11

 

4.3  Client Side Connection Descriptions

Section Title
Connections
Column Title Function Legal Values
Port Specify which port the device is connected to the FieldServer P1-P81 , R1-R22
Baud Specify baud rate 9600, 38400, 768003
Parity* Specify parity Odd, Even, None
Data_Bits* Specify data bits 7, 8
Stop_Bits* Specify stop bits 1, 2
Protocol Specify protocol used BACnet_MSTP
Poll Delay* Time between internal polls 0-32000s, 1s
Timeout Application logger timeout 30s
Max_Master* Specify the highest MAC_Address for Master nodes. When designing a MSTP network with multiple Master_Node devices, allocate the MAC_Address settings on the different devices starting at 1. This will allow you to specify a small Max_Master parameter and hence will improve overall network performance. 1-127
Max_Info_Frames Specify the maximum number of information frames the connection may send before it must pass the token. 1-65535

 

Example

 

// Client Side Connections

Connections

Port , Baud ,   Parity ,  Data_Bits , Stop_Bits , Protocol ,         Poll_Delay , Timeout

R1 ,   38400 , None ,   8 ,            1 ,            BACnet_MSTP , 0.100s ,      30s

 

————————————————-

1 P1 to P8 will require the optional RS-485 converter (Part # 4301-00)

2 Not all ports shown are necessarily supported by the hardware. Consult the appropriate Instruction manual for details of the ports available on specific hardware.

3 76800 baud is supported on the X30, X25 and ProtoCessor

 

4.4 Client Side Node Descriptors

Section Title
Nodes
Column Title Function Legal Values
Node_Name Provide name for Node Up to 32 alphanumericcharacters
Node_ID Specify the BACnet Device object instance. 1 – 16777215
Protocol Specify protocol used BACnet_MSTP
Port Specify port P1-P84 , R1-R25
MAC_Address MAC_Address of the physical server node. 1-127 (for Master Nodes)1-254 (for Slave Nodes)
Network_Number* Use this parameter if the remote MSTP server device is on another BACnet network connected via a router. 1, 2, 3…. 16 bit positive numbers, 5

 

Example

 

// Client Side Nodes

Nodes

Node_Name , Node_ID , Protocol ,            Port DEV_1 ,         1,            BACnet_MSTP ,    R1

 

——————————————————

P1 to P8 will require the optional RS-485 converter (Part # 4301-00)

Not all ports shown are necessarily supported by the hardware. Consult the appropriate Instruction manual for details of the ports available on specific hardware.

 

4.5  Client Side Map Descriptors

4.5.1 FieldServer Related Map Descriptor Parameters

Column Title Function Legal Value
Map_Descriptor_Name

Name of this Map Descriptor. This is used for Object_Name Property. Refer to Appendix A.1.

Up to 32 alphanumeric characters
Data_Array_Name Name of Data Array where data is to be stored in the FieldServer One of the Data Array names from “Data_Array” section
Data_Array_Offset Starting location in Data Array 0 to (“Data_Array_Length” -1)
Function Function of Client Map Descriptor Rdbc, Wrbc, Wrbx, Ars

 

4.5.2 Driver Related Map Descriptor Parameters

Column Title Function Legal Value
Node_Name Name of Node to fetch data from One of the node names specified in “Client NodeDescriptor”
Object_Type(Alias = Data_Type) Type of object. Refer to Appendix D.1 for more information. AI, AO, AV, BI, BO, BV, MI, MO, MV, NC
Object_Instance(Alias = Address) Instance of the object on the device. 0, 1, 2, 3, …4194303
Property The BACnet property to be read. Refer to Appendix D.2
Data_Array_Low_Scale* Scaling zero in Data Array -32767 to 32767, 0
Data_Array_High_Scale* Scaling max in Data Array -32767 to 32767, 100
Node_Low_Scale* Scaling zero in Connected Node -32767 to 32767, 0
Node_High_Scale* Scaling max in Connected Node -32767 to 32767, 100
Length* Used to create an array of sequential Object_Instances on an Object_Type. 1 to max point count of the FieldServer, 1
Array_Index* When referencing Multistate properties, allows the user to specify the index of the property to be read. If 1 is specified, the first one will be read, if 2 is specified, the second will be read, etc. If 0 is specified, the driver will return the total number (count) of array items linked to the property. If the parameter is not specified, a list of all items will be returned. Refer to Appendix A.3 0 to max number of array items in the BACnet Property, –

 

4.5.3 Timing Parameters

Column Title Function  Legal Value
Scan_Interval* Rate at which data is polled 0-32000, 2s

 

4.5.4 Map Descriptor Example.

// Client Side Map Descriptors

 

Map_Descriptors

Map_Descriptor_Name , Data_Array_Name , Data_Array_Offset , Function , Node_Name , Data_Type , Object_Instance , Property , Scan_Interval

CMD_AI_01                  , DA_AI_01             , 0                          , Rdbc     , DEV_1        , AI              , 1                      , Present_Value , 20.000s

CMD_AI_02                  , DA_AI_01             , 1                          , Rdbc     , DEV_1        , AI              , 2                      , Present_Value , 20.000s

CMD_AI_03                  , DA_AI_01             , 2                          , Rdbc     , DEV_1        , AI               , 3                      , Present_Value , 20.000s

CMD_AO_01                 , DA_AO_01            , 0                         , Rdbc     , DEV_1        , AO            , 1                      , Present_Value , 30.000s

CMD_AO_02                 , DA_AO_01            , 1                         , Rdbc     , DEV_1        , AO            , 2                      , Present_Value , 30.000s

CMD_AO_03                 , DA_AO_01            , 2                         , Rdbc     , DEV_1        , AO            , 3                      , Present_Value , 30.000s

 

Map_Descriptors

Map_Descriptor_Name , Data_Array_Name , Data_Array_Offset , Function , Node_Name , Data_Type , Object_Instance , Property , Scan_Interval

CMD_DI_01                 , DA_DI_01             , 0                         , Rdbc      , DEV_1          , BI              , 1                     , Present_Value    , 15.000s

CMD_DI_02                 , DA_DI_01             , 1                         , Rdbc      , DEV_1          , BI              , 2                     , Present_Value    , 15.000s

CMD_DI_03                 , DA_DI_01             , 2                         , Rdbc      , DEV_1          , BI             , 3                      , Present_Value    , 15.000s

CMD_DO_01                , DA_DO_01           , 0                         , Rdbc      , DEV_1          , BO            , 1                      , Present_Value    , 30.000s

CMD_DO_02                , DA_DO_01           , 1                         , Rdbc      , DEV_1          , BO            , 2                      , Present_Value  , 30.000s

CMD_DO_03                , DA_DO_01           , 2                         , Rdbc      , DEV_1          , BO            , 3                       , Present_Value   , 30.000s

 

5. CONFIGURING THE FIELDSERVER AS A BACNET MSTP SERVER

For a detailed discussion on FieldServer configuration, please refer to the FieldServer Configuration Manual. The information that follows describes how to expand upon the factory defaults provided in the configuration files included with the FieldServer (See “.csv” sample files provided with the FieldServer).

This section documents and describes the parameters necessary for configuring the FieldServer to communicate with a BACnet MSTP Client.

The configuration file tells the FieldServer about its interfaces, and the routing of data required. In order to enable the FieldServer for BACnet MSTP communications, the driver independent FieldServer buffers need to be declared in the “Data Arrays” section, the FieldServer virtual node(s) needs to be declared in the “Server Side Nodes” section, and the data to be provided to the clients needs to be mapped in the “Server Side Map Descriptors” section. Details on how to do this can be found below.

Note that in the tables, * indicates an optional parameter, with the bold legal value being the default.

 

5.1  Driver Specific FieldServer Parameters

Section Title
Bridge
Column Title Function Legal Values
Title FieldServer name Text
System_Station_Address The FieldServers MAC address on the MSTP network 1-254

 

Example

 

// FieldServer Driver specific parameters

Bridge

Title                                  , System_Station_Address

BacNet MSTP Server V1.02a , 11

 

5.2  Data Arrays/Descriptors

 Note that in the tables, * indicates an optional parameter, with the bold legal value being the default.

Section Title
Data_Arrays
Column Title Function Legal Values
Data_Array_Name Provide name for Data Array Up to 15 alphanumericcharacters
Data_Array_Format Provide data format. Each Data Array can only take on one format. Float, Bit, Uint16, Uint32, Sint16, Sint32, Packed_Bit, Byte, Packed_Byte, Swapped_Byte
Data_Array_Length Number of Data Objects. Must be larger than the data storage area required by the Map Descriptors for the data placed in this array. 1-10,000

 

Example

 

// Data Arrays

 

Data_Arrays

Data_Array_Name , Data_Array_Format , Data_Array_Length DA_AI_01             , Float                      , 200

DA_AO_01           , Float                       , 200

DA_DI_01             , Bit                         , 200

DA_DO_01            , Bit                         , 200

 

5.3  Server Side Connection Descriptors

Section Title
Connections
Column Title Function Legal Values
Port Specify which port the device is connected to the FieldServer P1-P86 , R1-R27
Baud Specify baud rate 9600, 38400, 768008
Parity* Specify parity Odd, Even, None
Data_Bits* Specify data bits 7, 8
Stop_Bits* Specify stop bits 1, 2
Protocol Specify protocol used

BACnet_MSTP

Connection Type*

Specify if the connection must be in Master_Mode or in Slave_Mode

MSTP_Master_ModeMSTP_Slave_Mode
Max_Master*

Specify the highest possible MAC_Address that exists on the MSTP network. Only applicable for MSTP_Master Mode connections. (See also section 4.7)9

1-127
Max_Info_Frames Specify the maximum number of information frames the connection may send before it must pass the token. Only applicable for MSTP_Master Mode connections.9 1-65535

 

Example

 

6 P1 to P8 will require the optional RS-485 converter (Part # 4301-00)
7 Not all ports shown are necessarily supported by the hardware. Consult the appropriate Instruction manual for details of the ports available on specific hardware.

8 76800 baud is supported on the X30, X25 and ProtoCessor

9 ForServer configurations the Max_Master and Max_Info_Frames parameters (or properties) can be overridden from a BACnet Client by using the “Write Property” command. Note that when the FieldServer is restarted, the default values specified in the configuration file will be applied

 

5.4  Server Side Node Descriptors 10

Section Title
Nodes
Column Title Function Legal Values
Node_Name Provide name for Node Up to 32 alphanumeric characters
Node_ID BACnet station address of physical Server node 1 – 16777215
Protocol Specify protocol used BACnet_MSTP
Node_Option* Enable or disable COV for this Node. Refer to Appendix A.6 for further information. COV_Enable, COV_Disable, –

 

Example

 

// Server Side Nodes

 

Nodes

Node_Name          , Node_ID , Protocol

11 Virtual_DEV_11 , 11           , BACnet_MSTP

 

5.5  Server Side Map Descriptors

 

5.5.1 FieldServer Specific Map Descriptor Parameters

Column Title Function Legal Value
Map_Descriptor_Name Name of this Map Descriptor. This is used for Object_Name Property. Refer to Appendix A.1. Up to 32 alphanumeric characters
Data_Array_Name Name of Data Array where data is to be stored in the FieldServer One of the Data Array names from“Data Arrays” section
Data_Array_Offset Starting location in Data Array 0 to (“Data_Array_Length” -1)
Function Function of Server Map Descriptor Passive

 

10 Only one Server Nodes may be defined for each connection. For information on support for multiple virtual server nodes on a single connection please contact the Sales Department.”

11 Note that Port is not declared in the Server Side Nodes

 

5.5.2 Driver Specific Map Descriptor Parameters

Column Title Function Legal Value
Node_Name Name of Node to fetch data from One of the Node Names specified in “Server Side Node Descriptors”
Object_Type(Alias = Data_Type) Data type in Controller AI, AO, AV, BI, BO, BV, MI, MO, MV, NC. Refer to Appendix A.1.
Object_Instance(Alias = Address) Instance of the Object on the Device. 0, 1, 2, 3, …4194303
Units* The object units Refer to Appendix D.3, m2
Data_Array_Low_Scale* Scaling zero in Data Array -32767 to 32767, 0
Data_Array_High_Scale* Scaling max in Data Array -32767 to 32767, 100
Node_Low_Scale* Scaling zero in Connected Node -32767 to 32767, 0
Node_High_Scale* Scaling max in Connected Node -32767 to 32767, 100
Active_Text 12* Specify the Active Text property of the Object Any text string of length up to 40characters, Active
Inactive_Text 12* Specify the Inactive Text property of the Object Any text string of length up to 40characters, Inactive
Relinquish_Default 12 Specify the value to be returned as Present_Value on startup or when control is relinquished. Must be specified foroutputs. Refer to Appendix D.2 Any Float value
Length* Used to create an array of sequential Object_Instances on an Object_Type. 1 to max point count of the FieldServer, 1
Notification_Class* Specify the Mapdescriptor_Name of the Notification_Class Object that manages Intrinsic Reporting for this Map Descriptor. Refer to Appendix A.6. One of the configuredMapdescriptor_Names of type NC(Notification Class). Objects are not

available to any NC if left out.

Ack_Required* For a Notification_Class Object, specify whether EventNotifications require a user Acknowledgement. Refer to Appendix A.6. Yes, No
COV_Increment* For a Server Map Descriptor of type AO or AI, initialize the COV_Increment property. Refer to Appendix A.6. Any Float value, 0
Input_alarm_State* For binary points the user can specify which of the states (0 or 1) to regard as an alarm state. 0, 1
Description* Specify the object’s description property. Eg Room Temp – Refer to Appendix A.6.3 Any text string of length up to 40characters, If not configured, defaultsto Object_Name.

 

12 See the BACnet DFS to determine if a particular object supports this property

 

5.5.3 Map Descriptor Example.

 

 

Appendix A. USEFUL FEATURES


Appendix A.1. BACnet object names

When an external BACnet Client builds a list of Object Names, the BACnet Server Map Descriptor names determine the BACnet Object Name. If the Map Descriptor length is greater than 1, the Object Name will be suffixed with the index into the Map Descriptor. For example, if the Map Descriptor name is SMD_AI_01 and the length 3, then the Object Names will be SMD_AI_01[0], SMD_AI_01[1] and SMD_AI_01[2].

 

Appendix A.2. Network number

If multiple BACnet Nodes are specified on the Server side, the FieldServer automatically defaults to virtual operation. In effect, the FieldServer simulates a software router. BACnet identifies this FieldServer using a combination of it’s network number and IP/MAC address. The default Network number of a FieldServer is 5. If there is more than one FieldServer on a BACnet intranet with multiple nodes, the default network number of the additional FieldServers will need to be changed and a unique number allocated to each.A unique network number will need to be assigned if both of the following conditions are true:


  • The FieldServer has multiple BACnet Server nodes.
  • There is more than one FieldServer on a network which includes multiple BACnet nodes.

To override the FieldServer’s default network number 5 include the following in the configuration file:

Section Title
Bridge
Column Title Function Legal Values
Title FieldServer name Text
Network_number* Specify a unique network number if there are multiple virtual Server nodes. 1-65534, 5


Example

// FieldServer Driver specific parameters

 

Bridge

Title               , Network_Number

BACnet Server , 6

 

Note: While it is theoretically possible to have up to 65535 virtual nodes, it is recommended that a maximum of 32 is configured. If an application requires the configuration of more than 32 virtual nodes please consult FST.

 

Appendix A.3. Accessing Data from BACnet Properties comprising Arrays of Values

Some BACnet Object properties (e.g. Priority_Array) are arrays of values (the Priority_Array property is an array of 16 values). In order to read a specific array entry, the Array_Index must be specified in the Map Descriptor. Array_Index is a Client Side Map Descriptor function

The following example shows a configuration that will read the Priority_Array value at Array_Index 7, belonging to Analog Output 1.

 

Map_Descriptors


Map_Descriptor_Name , Data_Array_Name , Data_Array_Offset , Function , Node_Name , Data_Type , Object_ID , Property       , Array_Index CMD_AI_01                , DA_AI_01            , 0                        , Rdbc      , DEV_01       , AO            , 1             , Priority_Array , 7

 

Details of the relevant BACnet properties and their associated arrays can be found in the BACnet Protocol Spec.

 

Appendix A.4. FieldServer implementation of BACnet priority Arrays

When BACnet Output objects are written to the Server side of the FieldServer, an associated write priority is given to each write value. When the FieldServer receives the write value, it stores it to the Map Descriptor Priority Array Table at the specified priority. The Priority Array Table is then scanned and the value with the highest priority is stored to the Data Array location specified by the Map Descriptor.

When a Write “Relinquished” command is received, the value is removed from the Priority Array Table and the next highest value from the Priority Array Table is stored to the Data Array.

If all values have been “Relinquished” from the Priority Array Table, then the Map Descriptors “Relinquish Default” value will be stored to the Data Array.

 

Appendix A.4.1.  Accessing Priority Array information

The Priority Array table and its “In_Use” (or Not Relinquished) state are stored internally to every Map Descriptor, and cannot be accessed directly. The information can be accessed indirectly by specifying the following Data Arrays which will maintain an exact copy of the Priority Array Table for the Map Descriptor.


Section Title

Map_Descriptors
Column Title Function Legal Values
DA_Pri_Array

Name of Data Array where the Priority Array Table will be stored. Location 0 is the Relinquish Default value and locations 1 to 16 the different entries of the Priority Array Table.


Up to 16 alphanumericcharacters
Data_Array_Format Starting location in Data Array. 1-65535 , 0
DA_Pri_In_Use

Name of Data Array that indicates if a particular Priority Value is in use. Location 0 indicates whether the Relinquish Default has been set and locations 1 to 16 indicate whether the index is in use (1), or Relinquished (0).


Up to 16 alphanumericcharacters
DA_Pri_In_Use_Offset* Starting location in Data Array.

1-65535, 0

 

Appendix A.5. BACnet State Text Preload

BACnet Multistate Objects have a State_Text property. This property is defined as an array of character strings representing descriptions of all possible states of the Present_Value. The number of descriptions matches the number of states defined in the Number_Of_States property. The Present_Value, interpreted as an integer, serves as an index into the array.

When Multistate Objects are configured on a BACnet server it is necessary to define the State_Text property. This section illustrates how to define the State_Text character strings and how to associate these definitions with Multistate Server Map Descriptors.

The maximum permitted length of any State_Text string is 50 characters.

 

Appendix A.5.1. Method 1 – Using an Offset/User Table:

 

Appendix A.5.2.  Method 2 – Using a Single Data Array:

 

Appendix A.5.3. Using Intrinsic Reporting for a Multistate Value

To use Intrinsic Reporting for a Multistate value, it is necessary to classify each of the states as either Normal, Alarm or Trouble. This is done by adding another column to the Offset_Table, called Table_User_Value. Each state is then classified by inserting one of the following values in its row:

 

0 = normal

1 = alarm

2 = fault

 

//set up a look up table

 

Offset_Table

Offset_Table_Name , Table_String     , Table_Index_Value , Table_User_Value

FIRE_ALRM_TEXT     , SYSTEM READY , 1                          , 0

FIRE_ALRM_TEXT     , ALARM             , 2                          , 1

FIRE_ALRM_TEXT     , MAINTENANCE   , 3                          , 2

FIRE_ALRM_TEXT     , OFF-LINE          , 4                          , 2

FIRE_ALRM_TEXT     , IN SERVICE      , 5                           , 0

FIRE_ALRM_TEXT     , OTHER             , 6                           , 2

 

Note: The state value (Table_Index_Value) is an enumerated value greater than zero. Zero is not a valid value, but since many client side configurations will wake up with values of zero, the BACnet server will treat a value of zero as a normal value (i.e. not as an alarm or fault value)

 

Appendix A.6. COV and Intrinsic Reporting

The COV (Change of Value) and Intrinsic Reporting services are two distinct ways in which point values can be reported to a client workstation as they change, i.e. in an event-driven opposed to a polling method. This can increase performance dramatically compared to polling method alone. It also reduces network traffic significantly.

For BACnet/MSTP, only MSTP Master Nodes support COV and Intrinsic Reporting.


The services are suited to different purposes:

COV is suited to value updates. On analog points the sensitivity can be set using the COV_Increment property. Only changes larger than the COV_Increment value will be reported.


Intrinsic Reporting is used for alarming. It is implemented via Notification_Class objects, which can receive subscriptions from client workstations that add themselves to the RecipientList property of a Notification_Class object.Notifications are done using ConfirmedEventNotification or UnconfirmedEventNotification. Intrinsic Reporting also allows for alarms to be acknowledged (using the AcknowledgeAlarm service) and for all subscribed client workstations to be notified of alarm acknowledgements (using EventNotifications of type ACK_NOTIFICATION).


Appendix A.6.1. Notes on COV configuration

COV functionality is not enabled by default for MSTP. The Node_Option parameter can be configured to enable or disable COV. An example configuration is presented in Appendix A.6.5. Systems using BACnet/IP or BACnet/Ethernet to BACnet/MSTP routers may not function reliably if COV functionality is enabled as the router will make the MSTP device appear as a BACnet/IP or BACnet/Ethernet device, which could lead the BACnet Workstation to expect unrealistic throughput performance when subscribing to multiple points. It is recommended only to enable COV functionality on MSTP systems if the Client device communicates directly via MSTP, or if the user knows that the throughput issue will not arise.


COV functionality (SubscribeCOV service) only applies to the Present_Value and Status_Flags properties of BACnet Objects – the SubscribeCOVProperty service is not supported by the FieldServer.


For analog Server Map Descriptors the user may optionally configure a COV_Increment value to adjust the reporting threshold. If it is not set the COV_Increment defaults to zero.


COV Notifications are generated for all data objects for which a remote client has issued a SubscribeCOV-Request. The SubscribeCOV-Request regulates whether Notifications are Confirmed or Unconfirmed. The remote Client may also write the COV_Increment property in order to control the deadband for changes in analog values. The COV_Increment property can be initialized via the configuration file by setting the COV_Increment Map Descriptor Property. The value set by the configuration is an initial value that is loaded on startup. It would be replaced by any new value written by the Client.


COV is not available on the ProtoCessor.

 

Appendix A.6.2. Notes on Intrinsic Reporting configuration:

Intrinsic Reporting is managed by Notification Class objects. At least one Notification Class object must be configured for Intrinsic Reporting to work.

    Each Data_Object that is to be monitored by Intrinsic Reporting must be linked to a Notification Class object via the Notification_Class Map Descriptor Property. For analog points alarm limits must be set up, and for binary points, the Input_Alarm_State (specifying which binary value (0 or 1) to regard as the Alarm state) must be set up.


    The Notification_Class object contains properties that allow a client workstation to modify rules governing event reporting, such as event_type, days of week, start and end times etc.


    The RecipientLists are non-volatile, and subscriptions must be renewed on system restart.

     

    Appendix A.6.3.  Map Descriptor Example – COV

     

    Appendix A.6.4.  Map Descriptor Example – Intrinsic Reporting

     

    Appendix A.6.5.  Map Descriptor Example – Enable or Disable COV

     

    Nodes

    Node_Name     , Node_ID , Protocol   , Node_Option

    Virtual_Dev_11 , 11         , Bacnet_IP , COV_Disable

     

    Appendix B. TROUBLESHOOTING

    Appendix B.1. Debugging a BACnet connection

    If duplicate Object_Instances are configured in the FieldServer, the second call of the Instance will overwrite the first one. This may cause a BACnet Object to be “lost.”


    If the Node Name configured on the BACnet Server Side of the configuration is not being indicated as the Device Name on the BACnet SCADA system, then the FieldServer is not communicating with the SCADA system. If the Device Object’s name is being indicated, but the Present_Value shows question marks, then it is likely that the Client side of the FieldServer is not communicating.


    Extra memory is required to store Map Descriptors that have the active/inactive text parameters specified. If the defaults are appropriate, do not specify these parameters. This will save memory and allow more Map Descriptors to be created.


    When a BACnet_MSTP connection is configured as a server, it is better to use connection_type MSTP_Slave_Node. The only time when a server connection must be a Master_Node is when alarming has been established on the FieldServer.


    When a FieldServer/ProtoCessor is configured to support MSTP virtual server nodes the firmware achieves this by implementing a virtual router and thus a network number is required so that it can expose its nodes to external devices as belonging to a specific network. (The default is network 5 if not specified). This network number is defined on the bridge descriptor as Network_Number. It must be unique for a site. Refer also to Appendix A.2.

     

    Appendix C. VENDOR INFORMATION

    Appendix C.1. McQuay

    McQuay Units are shipped with a default Device instance of the last 6 digits of the McQuay Serial number.

     

    Appendix C.2. Trane

    When new points are added to the FieldServer it is important to restart the Summit Workstation or BCU, otherwise these new points may not be seen by the FieldServer.

    Disconnect the FieldServer from the BACnet network when transferring images to the BCU.

     

    Appendix C.3. Liebert

    Polling BACnet addresses that are not configured for Liebert systems may cause the connection to fail in older versions of Liebert. Please contact your Liebert supplier for more information.

     

    Appendix C.4. Automated Logic Corporation.

    When an ALC module is powered up, and it does not detect valid BACnet/MSTP traffic on its MSTP port, then the module goes into a terminal mode and MSTP communications will not be initiated.

    When connecting the FieldServer to an ALC BACnet/MSTP module, always start the FieldServer first. Wait until the RUN Led is flashing on the FieldServer before powering up the MSTP module.

     

    Appendix C.5. Honeywell EBI

    Honeywell EBI cannot process Event Notifications with ACK_Required set to 1. The ACK_Required property of Notification Class Map Descriptors configured for use with EBI must therefore be set to 0.

     

    Appendix D. REFERENCE

    Appendix D.1. Object_Type Legal Values – Abbreviation Descriptions

    AI ANALOG_INPUT
    AO ANALOG_OUTPUT
    AV ANALOG_VALUE
    BI BINARY_INPUT
    BO BINARY_OUTPUT
    BV BINARY_VALUE
    MI MULTI_STATE_INPUT
    MO MULTI_STATE_OUTPUT
    MV MULTI_STATE_VALUE
    NC NOTIFICATION_CLASS_OBJECT

     

    Appendix D.2. Property Legal Values

    Legal Value

    Description

    Object_Identifier

    This property is a numeric code that is used to identify the object. It is unique within the BACnet Device that maintains it.


    Object_List

    Relevant to Device Object Type. This property is a BACnetARRAY of Object_Identifiers, one Object_Identifier for each object within the device that is accessible through BACnet services. An Object_Identifier is composed of Object Type and Object Instance and must be unique within a BACnet Device, e.g. Object Type = Analog Input, Object Instance = 3.


    Present_Value

    This property contains the present value of the Input / Output / Value.


    Object_Name

    Character string providing the name of a BACnet object. The set of characters used in the Object_Name is restricted to printable characters. The Object_Name is determined by the Map_Descriptor_Name.


    Description

    Character string describing a BACnet object. This can be defined by the user to give additional detail about the Object.


    Out_of_service

    The Out_Of_Service property, of type BOOLEAN, is an indication whether (TRUE) or not (FALSE) the physical input that the object represents is not in service. This means that the Present_Value property is decoupled from the physical input and will not track changes to the physical input when the value of Out_Of_Service is TRUE. In addition, the Reliability property and the corresponding state of the FAULT flag of the Status_Flags property shall be decoupled from the physical input when Out_Of_Service is TRUE. While the Out_Of_Service property is TRUE, the Present_Value and Reliability properties may be changed to any value as a means of simulating specific fixed conditions or for testing purposes. Other functions that depend on the state of the Present_Value or Reliability properties shall respond to changes made to these properties while Out_Of_Service is TRUE, as if those changes had occurred in the physical input.


    Event_State

    The Event_State property, of type BACnetEventState, is included in order to provide a way to determine if this object has an active event state associated with it. If the object supports intrinsic reporting, then the Event_State property shall indicate the event state of the object. If the object does not support intrinsic reporting, then the value of this property shall be NORMAL. Other values: FAULT, OFF-NORMAL, HIGH-LIMIT, LOW-LIMIT, LIFE-SAFETY-ALARM.


    Units

    This property contains the units associated with the Present_Value property.


    Reliability

    The Reliability property, of type BACnetReliability, provides an indication of whether the Present_Value or the operation of the physical input in question is “reliable” as far as the BACnet Device or operator can determine and, if not, why. The following values are supported: NO_FAULT_DETECTED, UNRELIABLE_OTHER.


    Priority_Array

    This property relates to Output and Value Object Types and is a read only array that contains prioritized commands or NULLs in the order of decreasing priority. The highest priority (lowest array index) with a non-NULL value is the active command.


    State_Text

    Relevant to Multistate Object Types: This property is a BACnetARRAY of character strings representing descriptions of all possible states of the Present_Value. The number of descriptions matches the number of states defined in the Number_Of_States property. The Present_Value, interpreted as an integer, serves as an index into the array.


    Number_Of_States

    Relevant to Multistate Object Types: this property sets the total number of states for which descriptions will be returned as defined under the State_Text property. The number of states will be determined automatically by the largest state number used when configuring the Offset Table (Refer to Appendix A.5).


    Max_Master

    Relevant to BACnet MS/TP Device Object Type: The Max_Master property, of type Unsigned, shall be present if the device is a master node on an MS/TP network. The value of Max_Master specifies the highest possible address for master nodes and shall be less than or equal to 127. If the Max_Master property is not writable via BACnet services, its value shall be 127.


    Max_Info_Frames

    Relevant to BACnet MS/TP Device Object Type: The Max_Info_Frames property, of type Unsigned, shall be present if the device is a node on an MS/TP network. The value of Max_Info_Frames specifies the maximum number of information frames the node may send before it must pass the token. If Max_Info_Frames is not writable or otherwise user configurable, its value shall be 1.


    Active_Text

    Relevant to Binary Object Types: This property, of type CharacterString, characterizes the intended effect of the ACTIVE state of the Present_Value property from the human operator’s viewpoint. The content of this string is a local matter, but it is intended to represent a human-readable description of the ACTIVE state. For example, if the physical input is a switch contact, then the Active_Text property might be assigned a value such as “Fan 1 On”.


    Inactive_Text

    This property, of type CharacterString, characterizes the intended effect of the INACTIVE state of the Present_Value property from the human operator’s viewpoint. The content of this string is a local matter, but it is intended to represent a human-readable description of the INACTIVE state. For example, if the physical input is connected to a switch contact, then the Inactive_Text property might be assigned a value such as “Fan 1 Off”.


    Description

    A character string giving more information about the Object associated with the Present_Value property.


    Firmware_revision The firmware revision of the application.
    Relinquish_Default This property is the default value to be used for the Present_Value property when all command priority values in the Priority_Array property have a NULL value.

     

    Appendix D.3. Units

    Unit Variation 1 Variation 2 Variation 3
    Amperes Amps A
    Bars
    BTUs
    BTUs-per-hour
    btus-per-pound
    btus-per-pound-dry-air
    centimeters
    centimeters-of-mercury
    centimeters-of-water
    cubic-feet
    cubic-feet-per-minute
    cubic-feet-per-seconds
    cubic-meters
    cubic-meters-per-hour
    cubic-meters-per-seconds
    Currency1
    Currency2
    Currency3
    Currency4
    Currency5
    Currency6
    Currency7
    Currency8
    Currency9
    Currency10
    cycles-per-hour
    cycles-per-minute
    days
    degrees-angular
    Degrees-Celsius Deg-C Deg_C
    degrees-Celsius-per-hour
    degrees-Celsius-per-minute
    Degrees-days-Celsius
    Degrees-days-Fahrenheit Deg-F Deg_F
    Degrees-Fahrenheit
    degrees-Fahrenheit-per-hour
    degrees-Fahrenheit-per-minute
    Degrees-Kelvin Deg-K Deg_K
    degrees-phase
    delta-degrees-Fahrenheit
    delta-degrees-Kelvin
    feet
    feet-per-minute
    feet-per-second
    foot-candles
    grams-water-per-kg-dry-air
    hectopascals
    Hertz Hz
    Horsepower HP
    hours
    imperial-gallons
    imperial-gallons-per-min
    inches
    inches-of-mercury
    inches-of-water
    Joules
    joules-per-degree-kelvin
    joules-per-kilogram-degree-kelvin
    joules-per-kilogram-dry-air
    Kilograms Kg
    kilograms-per-hour
    kilograms-per-minute
    kilograms-per-second
    Kilohertz KHz
    kilohms
    Kilojoules
    kilojoules-per-kilogram
    kilometers-per-hour
    kilopascals KPa
    kilovolt-amperes kilovolt-amps KVA
    kilovolt-amperes-reactive KVAR
    kilovolts
    kilowatt-hour-per-square-foot
    kilowatt-hour-per-square-meter
    kilowatt-hours KWh
    kilowatts KW
    liters
    liters-per-hour
    liters-per-minute
    liters-per-second
    lumens
    luxes
    Megahertz MHz
    megajoules
    megajoules-per-square-foot
    megajoules-per-square-meter
    megavolt-amperes megavolt-amps
    Megavolt-amperes-reactive MVAR
    megavolts
    megawatts MW
    megohms
    meters
    meters-per-second
    miles-per-hour
    milliamperes milliamps
    millibars
    millimeters
    millimeters-of-mercury
    Millivolts
    Milliwatts
    minutes
    months
    No-Units No units No_Units None
    ohms
    parts-per-billion
    parts-per-million
    Pascals
    Percent
    percent-obscuration-per-foot
    percent-obscuration-per-meter
    Percent-per-second
    percent-relative-humidity % RH; %RH Percent RH; PercentRH
    per-hour
    per-minute
    per-second
    pounds-force-per-square-inch PSI pounds-force-per-sq-inch
    Pounds-mass
    pounds-mass-per-hour
    pounds-mass-per-minute
    pounds-mass-per-second
    Power-Factor PF
    psi-per-degrees-fahrenheit
    radians
    revolutions-per-minute
    seconds Secs S
    square-centimeters
    square-feet
    square-inches
    square-meters
    Therms
    ton-hours
    Tons
    Tons-refrigeration
    US-gallons Gallons
    us-gallons-per-minute GPM
    Volt-Amperes Volt-Amps VA
    volt-amperes-reactive VAR
    Volts Voltage
    watt-hours Wh
    Watts W
    watts-per-square-foot
    watts-per-square-meter
    watts-per-square-meter-degrees-kelvin
    weeks
    years

     

     

    Appendix D.4. BACnet Specific Statistics

     

     

    Stat Description Resolution
    Link Control  A “who-is” link control message was send or received.

    It is normal to receive a few link control messages. If the number is higher than the transmit/receive messages, however, there may be a problem with lost communications..

    Unsupported Properties  A request for an unsupported property was received

    This is not an error. BACnet clients often poll all properties of a particular object to determine which properties are supported.

    SegmentationNot Supported

    Data was requested but the response would have exceeded the maximum size of the APDU and could not be sent using an un-segmented message.

    This is not an error – the BACnet client will use a different method to read data from the FieldServer.
    Sequence Error Invoke ID of a reply did not match the Invoke ID of the poll.

    You should not see this message. It normally indicates a configuration error.

    Write Access Denied A write to an object was denied.

    This typically happens when trying to write to an Input Object that is not Out-Of-Service. It is not possible to write to Input Objects.

    Exception Errors A BACnet Service was denied because it is not supported This may be a problem on the Client system. Consult the PIC statement to determine what services are supported.

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