Patent ID: 10135363

Abstract:
A communication device for a field device for transferring output information to a controller, including a passive digital output with a first connection point and a second connection point, a circuit arrangement connected between the first connection point and the second connection point, and a control device configured to selectively put the circuit arrangement into one of a plurality of switching states according to the output information to be transferred. The communication device is configured, in a state in which the passive digital output is connected to the controller, to provide an electric output signal with a first signal value according to a first communication protocol at the connection points in a first switching state of the circuit arrangement and to provide the electric output signal with a second signal value according to the first communication protocol at the connection points in a second switching state of the circuit arrangement. The communication device is also configured to provide the electric output signal with a signal value according to a second communication protocol at the connection points in a third switching state of the circuit arrangement.