Electronic – Hart protocol implementation

protocolspecifications

I would like to implement the HART protocol and am searching for specifications of the protocol.
I found that the Hart Communication Foundation manages the protocol and on this page it says that

The HART Protocol was developed in the mid-1980s by Rosemount Inc. for
use with a range of smart measuring instruments. Originally
proprietary, the protocol was soon published for free use by anyone,
and in 1990 the HART User Group was formed. In 1993, the registered
trademark and all rights in the protocol were transferred to the HART
Communication Foundation (HCF). The protocol remains open and free for
all to use without royalties.

However when I try to download the documents from the same site it only gives me the TOC so I'm a bit confused.

  • Any idea where would the protocol documents be available?
  • If users have had previous experience in implementing this protocol, I would love to hear about their experience.

Best Answer

On the web site it also says

HART Protocol Specifications

The HART Protocol Specifications (HCF_KIT-13) are sold as a collection of over 15 documents that specify the different aspects of the protocol and test procedures for slave devices. The specifications are sold as a kit that include all the documents in the specification set. The cost of these documents is $975.

The royalty free bit just means that you can sell the devices without having to pay a royalty or licence fee for the privilege. You just have to buy the specifications.