There are so many choices of ways to add PROFINET to an automation device that it is difficult to know where to start. Where to start depends on the type of product, its existing design, quantity expected, and time to market needed. This article provides an overview of starting points plus a list of resources to help device makers through the process.
The new guideline, "Recommendation for Design and Implementation of PROFINET Devices," addresses technological aspects as well as organizational issues such as certification and marketing when developing a PROFINET device. It guides vendors through this process from initial questions to market launch of a product.
To assist manufacturers of automation devices in adding PROFINET to their products, many tools are now available. One is a PROFINET driver for controllers, and a second is a chip for devices. Both are from Siemens. A third, from Hilscher, also includes PROFIdrive controller functionality.
Did you know that IO-Link enables devices that were previously inconceivable? IO-Link sets new standards for the design of input/output modules. Whether integrated in the control rack or as a fieldbus module, one and the same module can process a wide range of signals. IO-Link masters can replace both binary and analog inputs and outputs. This facilitates spare parts management and enables flexible machine design. There is no longer a need for so many different types of modules.
PI was an integral part of the embedded world trade-show last month. The co-exhibitors Innovasic, Molex, Phoenix Contact, Renesas, and Siemens gave information about how to implement PROFINET and what kind of support can be expected during development.
PI sponsors a range of classes: free one-day training classes, PROFIBUS & PROFINET Certified Network Engineer classes, and the newly created PROFINET Developer Classes. Globally, there is a five-city series in France featuring PROFIBUS, PROFINET, and wireless PROFINET and in Germany there's a plugfest.
Recently on a LinkedIn forum, someone asked the following question: "I am a new instrumentation engineer. How does 4 - 20 mA technology work?" What followed was an in-depth analysis of the origins and history of the technology. Lost in the heat of the discussion, two people made almost the same comment: "We should leave that behind and just switch to fieldbus!"
Did you know that IO-Link drastically reduces the number of interfaces needed? Modern automation systems contain a variety of sensors and actuators from different manufacturers that are linked to controllers. IO-Link provides a universal physical interface for wiring and a uniform interface for configuration and parameter assignment.
