This part of IEC 61499 defines a generic architecture and presents guidelines for the use of function blocks in distributed industrial-process measurement and control systems (IPMCSs). This architecture is presented in terms of implementable reference models, textual syntax and graphical representations. These models, representations and syntax can be used for: • the specification and standardization of function block types; • the functional specification and standardization of system elements; • the implementation independent specification, analysis, and validation of distributed IPMCSs; • the configuration, implementation, operation, and maintenance of distributed IPMCSs; • the exchange of information among software tools for the performance of the above functions. This part of IEC 61499 does not restrict or specify the functional capabilities of IPMCSs or their system elements, except as such capabilities are represented using the elements defined herein. IEC 61499-4 addresses the extent to which the elements defined in this standard may be restricted by the functional capabilities of compliant systems, subsystems, and devices. Part of the purpose of this standard is to provide reference models for the use of function blocks in other standards dealing with the support of the system life cycle, including system planning, design, implementation, validation, operation and maintenance. The models given in this standard are intended to be generic, domain independent and extensible to the definition and use of function blocks in other standards or for particular applications or application domains. It is intended that specifications written according to the rules given in this standard be concise, implementable, complete, unambiguous, and consistent. NOTE 1 The provisions of this standard alone are not sufficient to ensure interoperability among devices of different vendors. Standards complying with this part of IEC 61499 can specify additional provisions to ensure such interoperability. NOTE 2 Standards complying with this part of IEC 61499 can specify additional provisions to enable the performance of system, device, resource and application management functions.