At the Hanover Fair, PI is demonstrating how modular automation units can be integrated into a higher-level process control or SCADA system within minutes using Module Type Packages (MTP).

Read about how and why PROFINET is a critical industrial communication technology for the digital transformation in the second of this two part series. Hint: it's about future-proofing: by enabling vertical integration through the coexistence of multiple protocols on a single network infrastructure.

Will we ever see ‘one network to rule them all’? Perhaps. It certainly would be an elegant solution. But it begs the question: would it be practical? So, perhaps not. In the meantime we're beginning to combine technologies to solve unique use-cases.

The PI Konferenz in Germany welcomes everyone interested in digitalization with respect to industry! Join us at the House of Logistics and Mobility (HOLM) in Frankfurt / Main, Germany on March 22-23, 2023.

Work on IO-Link Safety has progressed, and the relevant specifications are now complete; first devices will follow shortly. On May 9–11, 2023, in cooperation with TÜV-SÜD, the IO-Link Community will offer a training to become an IO-Link Safety Certified Designer.

Read about how and why PROFINET is a critical industrial communication technology for the digital transformation in the first of this two part series. Hint: it's about future-proofing: by enabling coexistence through a single network infrastructure.

For users, the Standard Robot Command Interface (SRCI) offers the possibility to write robot programs completely in the PLC. Together with PLCopen and the companion specifications of the OPC Foundation and the VDMA, the SRCI is shaping the future of robot programming.

Dietmar Bohn is the new managing director of the PROFIBUS Nutzerorganisation e.V. (PNO) and is leading both the PNO business office and the PI (PROFIBUS & PROFINET International) Support Center in Karlsruhe, Germany, together with Dr. Peter Wenzel.