What is HART burst mode?
What Is Burst Mode and HART Burst Mode in Process Automation?
Designed to mimic or control “bursty” data transmission, Burst Mode is a communication tool. Generally speaking networking, burst mode lets devices send data in fast, concentrated bursts instead of a consistent, continuous stream. This mode more precisely represents real-world Ethernet traffic patterns, when data is frequently transferred in fast bursts rather than constant flow. Network engineers frequently evaluate system performance under more realistic traffic scenarios using burst mode.
HART Burst Mode in industrial process automation is a particular feature found in HART-enabled field equipment. A HART device is set up in this mode to continually send a particular answer, usually process variable data, at regular intervals without requiring repetitive polling by the master device, such as a control system or handheld communicator. This provides quicker system response times and real-time data changes.
For modern HART devices, Burst Mode is optional but strongly advised. Devices that enable Burst Mode have to use key command sets (Commands 103–105 and 107–109) and have to allow at least three burst messages. Older HART 5 devices modified to enable Burst Mode are only required to support one, though.
HART Burst Mode Features Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Function | Cyclical, real-time publishing of process data |
| Trigger | Initiated by master; device continues bursting without further prompts |
| Required Commands | Must support Commands 103–105 and 107–109 |
| Minimum Burst Messages (HART 7) | 3 burst messages |
| Legacy Device Support (HART 5) | Minimum of 1 burst message |
| Use Case | Fast updates in control loops, improved system responsiveness |
| Protocol Compatibility | Available in HART 5, HART 6, and HART 7 (fully supported in HART 7) |