industrial control network

A network used to connect devices for factory automation and process control applications. Such networks, which are typically referred to as "buses," (Fieldbus, Modbus, PROFIBUS, etc.), are made up of sensors, actuators and controllers. An industrial network provides data link services at layers 1 and 2 of the OSI model and a command set at layer 7. Some functions in layer 3 through 6 may be partially or completely provided. See 4-20 mA, Fieldbus, CAN bus, DeviceNet, PROFIBUS, Modbus and industrial automation.