HCF Releases WirelessHart Test System Upgrade

The Hart Communication Foundation (HCF) has announced a “major upgrade” to the Wireless Test System, Wi-Htest Version 1.2. The system upgrade increases the number of available automated test scripts by 400 percent, improving overall test coverage and technician productivity while testing WirelessHart devices, the HCF said.

The Wireless Test System is designed to work with the Hart Test System and the Wi-Analys Network Analyzer to verify conformance of WirelessHart devices. The system upgrade includes new and updated automation scripts, updated menus, and updated Wi-Htest that adds support for virtual devices and improves performance.

"The Wireless Test System is critical to the development and compliance testing of WirelessHart devices,” said Ed Ladd, HCF director of technology programs. “Manufacturers must use this system to test a WirelessHart device prior to submitting the device for Foundation registration.”

In a separate statement, the HCF also announced the release of the WirelessHart Device Registration Procedure document that outlines the testing and registration requirements for WirelessHart devices. The Procedure, like the Wireless Test System, is an integral part of the Hart Device Registration Program.

"The release of the registration procedure is the crowning achievement in our progress toward delivering fully interoperable wireless products based on the Hart Standard,” said Ladd. “The requirements it sets forth assure the interoperability of wireless devices in a multi-vendor environment and the conformance of those devices to the requirements of the Hart Communication Protocol Specification.”