Since the beginning of 2022, drive and encoder manufacturers incorporating the optional PROFIdrive or Encoder profile are required to have their products certified with this option.
Unfortunately, not all manufacturers are well prepared for a test at a PI test lab, although this can be easily achieved. Reason enough for me to take up this topic again.
At PI, the quality of products with PI technologies has always played a major role. And so, in addition to the technical specifications, corresponding test tools are always created to determine conformity and ensure interoperability. This is also the case with the two profiles for drives and encoders.
The Profile Tester, a Windows-based tool with a graphical user interface, can be downloaded free of charge by all members. The PROFINET test set-up connection can be easily established by a Siemens CP1616 – PCI card-based communication controller. While project engineering can be individually handled either via Step7, NCM PC or TIA Portal.
The test scripts are fully automated and cover Application Classes 1, 3 and 4 and Encoder Classes 3 and 4. In addition, custom tests can be easily created using the extensive built-in functions. Tests can be bundled to test lists, which may then be started via command line. The test list is executed automatically. Thus, the Profile Tester can be easily integrated into the agile development process.
Variables can be observed and breakpoints can be set to facilitate error analysis.
I hope that I have piqued your interest in the Profile Tester. From PI’s point of view, the way is paved for a successful test and the issuance of the certificate.
Further information: https://www.profibus.com/download/profinet-profidrive-profile-tester
Raik Zachmann
Working Group Leader
PROFIdrive Certification (C2/WG5)