“What should I do, there are so many features and different ways for integrating PROFINET; it seems to be complicated.” I’ve heard this sometimes from device vendors after their first, cursory look at the PROFINET technology.
But after an investigation of some minutes for a deeper look they stated:
“The selection of the right integration platform with the appropriate scope of functions for our PROFINET device naturally deserves attention to meet our customers’ demands.”
However, this is the only way to create devices that are optimized in terms of both functionality and cost, enabling the manufacturer to integrate unique selling points that bring further benefits for the end user.
That is not complexity; it is a luxury.
PROFINET offers value-added functions such as parallel TCP/IP communication, large configuration limits, and high speed. The diagnostics are best-in-class, topology views enable uncomplicated documentation, and error location is facilitated. There are also some seemingly unimpressive features like the mandatory support of Identification & Maintenance that reduce downtime for end users.
Thanks to the usage of standard Ethernet all possible integration platforms support PROFINET:
- Standard Ethernet controllers
- PROFINET protocol ASICs
- FPGAs
- Hardware chips with PROFINET support
- Modules
- Gateways
The technology providers naturally provide support on the basis of requirements and boundary conditions provided by device manufacturers. Based on this, they gave the input for the new guideline “Recommendation for Design and Implementation of PROFINET Devices.”
This document guides users through the process from initial questions to market launch of a product. It addresses technological aspects as well as organizational issues such as certification and marketing. And it is enriched with practical tips and information.
However, the PI community can also tackle more extensive innovations, such as those to be expected in the context of Industrie 4.0 and Industrial Internet of Things. Since it complies completely with the Ethernet Standards, PROFINET provides a first-class starting point from which to face the future. This is especially true in the field of real-time Ethernet. Many innovations are to be expected in the future, from which PROFINET users will, of course, benefit.
Please visit us at the Hanover Fair 2016 (Hall 9, Booth D68) where we will be pleased to discuss the integration of PROFINET in your device
Xaver Schmidt
PI Factory Automation Marketing Group