Pedigree ensures reliability in automation

As confidence in the new technology grew and the tremendous advantages and flexibility of programmability became clear, the industry started to look to the regulators for some guidance on how these systems should be used, especially for safety applications. The regulations have developed from that point to date where IEC 61508 extends the standard requirements beyond programmable electronic systems to include the complete control loop. It includes field equipment and establishes fundamental requirements for the processes and competencies needed to design, implement, support and maintain such systems during their complete lifecycle.