NAMUR Open Architecture and Ethernet-APL
With growing demands for transparency, reliability, and data quality, modern process plants require an architecture that provides more information without overburdening process control. NOA (Namur Open Architecture) and Ethernet-APL offer the ideal combination for this: a separate diagnostic path and high-performance Ethernet communication all the way to the field.
Why are NOA and Ethernet-APL the next steps for modern plants?
NOA and Ethernet-APL make it possible to digitize plants in stages without modifying existing automation systems. The additional data channel allows valuable diagnostic data from the field level to be utilized without the need to intervene in the PLC or DCS. This results in a robust and future-proof architecture that optimally supports new sensor technology, modern analysis systems, and digital services.
Your benefits at a glance:
- Additional diagnostic data from the field without interfering with the PLC/PLCS
- Greater process stability through improved transparency
- Clear separation of OT and IT for enhanced security
- Future-proof foundation for new sensors, systems, and tools
- Foundation for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance
- Fewer downtimes thanks to early problem detection
This combination creates an architecture that enables digitalization—without posing any risk to ongoing operations.
NOA is expanding its existing systems to include a separate data path for diagnostic and status data.
NOA – Diagnose und Monitoring entkoppeln
What NOA enables: • Decoupled diagnostics without process risk • Use of existing signals in brownfield plants • Insight into drift, wear, and malfunctions • Simplification of inspections and proof tests • Improved documentation NOA creates transparency -without changing the control system.
Ethernet-APL enables two-wire, intrinsically safe Ethernet for the process industry.
Ethernet APL – High-Speed Communication All the Way to the Field
Advantages of APL: • High bandwidth for diagnostics and measurement values • Long cable runs for large systems • Intrinsically safe for hazardous areas • Power and data transmitted via just two wires • Reliable communication from the field device to the IT system. This allows modern, intelligent field devices to be used to their full potential.
Why NOA and Ethernet-APL Go Hand in Hand
NOA defines the architecture and logic, while Ethernet-APL provides the infrastructure and bandwidth.
Together, they enable:
- Decoupled Diagnostics
- Improved Troubleshooting
- More Stable Process Control
- Faster and Safer Equipment Changes
- Future-Proof Data Models
- Clear Interface Between OT and IT
A combination that every modern processing plant will need sooner or later.
Typical Use Cases
Predictive Maintenance
High-quality diagnostic data enables early maintenance decisions.
Brownfield Modernization
Retrofitting a separate diagnostic channel without modifying the system.
Safety-related tests
Proof tests are becoming faster, more thoroughly documented, and more accurate.
Integration of Modern Field Devices
Use diagnostics without modifying the PLC/PLCS.
OT/IT Integration
Clear, reliable handoff points for analytics and monitoring.
Safety-related monitoring
A better foundation for proof tests and retests.
Implementation: How We Integrate NOA and Ethernet-APL into Your System
- 1
Analysis and Concepts
- Identify existing communication channels
- Define diagnostic paths
- Plan APL segments
- Design an architecture for OT/IT interfaces
- 2
Engineering
- Device Profiles and Diagnostic Models
- APL Topology, Addressing, Segmentation
- PLS/PLC Integration (Alarms, Mapping, C&E Reference)
- Data Models for Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance
- 3
Implementation
- Installation of APL Switches and Devices
- Migration of Existing Systems
- Communication and Stress Tests
- Verification of NOA Channels
- 4
Commissioning and Handover
- Documentation
- Dashboards and Monitoring
- Handoff to Operations Teams
Frequently asked Questions - NOA and Ethernet-APL
