DIN EN 61500:2011-12

The equipment for data communication of on-line plant data can simplify the hardwired cables connecting distributed systems for instrumentation, control, protection and monitoring needed for safe Nuclear Power Plants operation. Such communication systems can have advantages over direct cables, for electrical isolation, for reduction of cable fire loads or other reasons. In a distributed computer based system, communication equipment is an essential part of the system. Data communication is usually essential for implementing I&C systems important to safety in nuclear power plants. The standard establishes requirements for data communication which is used in systems performing category A functions according to DIN IEC 61226 (VDE 0491-1) in nuclear power plants. It also covers interface requirements for data communication of equipment performing category A functions with other systems including those performing category B and C functions and functions not important to safety. The responsible committee is Subcommittee UK 967.1 "Leittechnik für kerntechnische Anlagen" ("Instrumentation for nuclear facilities") of the DKE (German Commission for Electrical, Electronic and Information Technologies) at DIN and VDE.