Successful PROFINET Plugfest in Bad Pyrmont
Last June, more than 150 developers met at three PI events focusing on PROFINET device development. Through this series of workshops, PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI) supports the entire development workflow for device manufacturers, beginning with the developer workshop for familiarization with PROFINET technology, the certification workshop for preparation for device testing to the Plugfest for the exchange of knowledge and experience among developers.
Interoperability of the various different solutions is ensured through comprehensive and far-reaching automated certification. The content of the second workshop, at which the automated RT tester (in particular) was presented, was processes, documents and the use of certification tools. Participants were able to learn a great deal about the installation and execution of the implemented test sequences, as well as the creation of their own test cases. This knowledge enables device manufacturers to ideally prepare themselves for the certification test at an accredited test laboratory.
The PROFINET Plugfest is the ideal platform for the direct exchange of knowledge and information between developers and the testing of new functions with as many other partners as possible. This event was attended by 70 developers and suppliers of base technology, devices, and systems at Phoenix Contact in Bad Pyrmont, Germany. Topics like MRP and diagnostics on large networks are fixed in advance as the framework of Plugfests like this, and precise tests and results follow from the direct and straightforward exchange between participants. Thanks to the large rooms available, it was possible to set up individual tests and a large network in parallel. Compared to previous Plugfests, broader support was seen for new services, such as the integration of S2 redundancy by many manufacturers for the first time. The results can benefit further development both in terms of specifications and certification.
Overall, lively and open discussions at all the events showed a great deal of interest in PROFINET integration into more devices and in use for continual joint development of PROFINET technology. These established events will continue in October and the following year.
IO-Link Plugfest in October
The date for the next IO-Link Interoperability workshop has been fixed. It will take place on October 16th/17th 2018 in Esslingen (Germany). This 2 days workshop is interesting for developers of Devices, Masters, and Tools alike.
The goal is to perform interoperability tests. Master and Device suppliers gather to test and improve interoperability, to share implementation tips and clarify questions regarding the technology. Experts of the technology from IO-Link will support with their expertise on-site as well.
Date: October 16th/17th 2018
Location: FESTO AG & Co. KG, Ruiter Straße 82, 73734 Esslingen Germany
Register Here