Abstract: A system and method for creating a fieldbus configuration on a computer system. The user assembles a graphical program or wiring diagram on the screen which comprises a selected plurality of function block icons which are linked with one or more wires connecting the function block icons. As the user assembles the fieldbus configuration wiring diagram, the system automatically creates and displays a schedule which visually presents the schedule being created. The schedule comprises one or more schedule bars for graphically or visually indicating the order of execution of the function blocks. The user can change the order of execution indicated by the schedule by graphically manipulating the schedule bars in the schedule. The user can also place one or more loop structures in the editor window which encapsulate a group of function block icons. The loop structure is used to specify a rate for the function block icons comprised within the loop structure.

Abstract: An improved system and method for monitoring a fieldbus network. The improved method and monitor utilize multiple filters with the capability of simultaneously capturing packets from more than one fieldbus and the ability to apply multiple filters to any single fieldbus. Filtered packets are captured as capture documents and stored in the monitor's memory storage. Filtered packets can be displayed, in real time, on the monitor's display screen. The improved monitor is configured to perform post-capture filtering of captured packets. Post-capture filtering does not destroy data. The improved monitor permits dynamic altering of filter settings. Using this feature, the user can initiate capture using a first filter settings, alter the filter setting while packets are being captured, and apply the altered filter setting to the fieldbus without terminating capture.

Abstract: An improved system and method for monitoring a fieldbus network. The improved method and monitor utilize multiple filters with the capability of simultaneously capturing packets from more than one fieldbus and the ability to apply multiple filters to any single fieldbus. Filtered packets are captured as capture documents and stored in the monitor's memory storage. Filtered packets can be displayed, in real time, on the monitor's display screen. The improved monitor is configured to perform post-capture filtering of captured packets. Post-capture filtering does not destroy data. The improved monitor permits dynamic altering of filter settings. Using this feature, the user can initiate capture using a first filter settings, alter the filter setting while packets are being captured, and apply the altered filter setting to the fieldbus without terminating capture.