A method includes automatically assigning, by at least one processor, an IEC address to an I/O binding variable for an RTU. This includes identifying a type of the I/O binding variable and identifying a size of the I/O binding variable based on the identified type. The size represents a number of memory locations to be used to store the I/O binding variable in at least one memory of the RTU. This also includes, in response to determining that the at least one memory contains a free space to store the I/O binding variable based on the identified size, assigning the IEC address identifying the free space to the I/O binding variable.

The disclosure relates to a method for operating a field device used in process automation technology, wherein the field device has an NFC/RFID transponder, wherein an operating unit comprises an operating system which has an executable operating program, in particular application software, wherein the operating unit has an NFC/RFID reader. The method is characterized in that the NFC/RFID transponder comprises a memory which has data which, when read out using the NFC/RFID reader, triggers the calling up of the operating program in the operating unit.

An industrial automation system employing a mesh topology of input/output allows flexibility in pairing field devices and controllers though the I/O mesh. Field devices can be connected to the geographically closest I/O module channel without regard to the location of the necessary controller. Modular prefabrication and deployment of the I/O modules becomes less complex and less time consuming thereby reducing costs.

An industrial automation system employing a mesh topology of input/output allows flexibility in pairing field devices and controllers though the I/O mesh. Field devices can be connected to the geographically closest I/O module channel without regard to the location of the necessary controller. Modular prefabrication and deployment of the I/O modules becomes less complex and less time consuming thereby reducing costs.

A method includes automatically assigning, by at least one processor, an IEC address to an I/O binding variable for an RTU. This includes identifying a type of the I/O binding variable and identifying a size of the I/O binding variable based on the identified type. The size represents a number of memory locations to be used to store the I/O binding variable in at least one memory of the RTU. This also includes, in response to determining that the at least one memory contains a free space to store the I/O binding variable based on the identified size, assigning the IEC address identifying the free space to the I/O binding variable.