PA-DIM at ACHEMA 2024

PA-DIM is gaining momentum across the process automation industry. It's a groundbreaking specification that revolutionizes interoperability with standardized device parameters. Whether you’re a manufacturer, a system integrator, or an end user, PA-DIM empowers you to unlock the full potential of your field devices.

PA-DIM aims to replicate field devices across hosts, cloud platforms, and analytic applications using a common information model. By doing so, it maximizes the value of data from diverse field devices—regardless of their types, brands, or communication protocols.

To achieve this ambitious goal, collaboration is key. All organizations serving the process industry—both hosts and devices— must come together. They need to agree on critical parameters and create a standardized framework that’s machine-readable and universally understood. PA-DIM aligns with existing standards, such as OPC UA device specifications and FDI (Field Device Integration), to ensure seamless interoperability.

PA-DIM didn’t emerge overnight; it’s the result of years of concerted effort by industry leaders. FieldComm Group, OPC Foundation and NAMUR started the collaboration – today it’s co-owned in addition by ISA100, ODVA, PNO, VDMA and ZVEI. NAMUR leverages their expertise to serve as the host organization for NOA (NAMUR Open Architecture) and PA-DIM is the current implementation for the NOA Information Model. Existing standards, like the common data dictionary (IEC 61987 CDD), are reused to maintain consistency. PA-DIM aligns its data model specification with OPC UA data structures. OPC UA serves as the primary IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) protocol, ensuring widespread adoption. Additionally, we’re developing model support for vendors to include closed, proprietary data and creating mapping tools for other common protocols.

Join the PA-DIM Revolution! PA-DIM isn’t just an acronym; it’s a game-changer. As we move forward, let’s embrace this standardized approach to process automation devices. Together, we’ll enhance efficiency, reduce integration headaches, and pave the way for a more connected industrial landscape.

Welcome to PA-DIM—where data speaks a universal language!

Several PA-DIM demonstrations were showcased at ACHEMA 2024. Read about them and PA-DIM at the link below.