PROFINET is a dynamic standard driven by an active community. New versions bring more features annually. In fact, I would be more concerned if our customers or community ran out of ideas for further development.

Virtual controllers and devices are a perfect example of the IT/OT convergence which plays a decisive role for PROFINET in automation technology. With the technical advancements being made in virtualization technology and the growing demand for virtual controllers and devices, PI has adapted the PROFINET certification process accordingly.

PROFINET users rely on the high quality and interoperability of devices used in their systems. Device manufacturers would like to have a flexibly implementable testing system offering easy and comprehensible operation. This is why PI is continuing to invest heavily to develop the PROFINET Tester –ensuring high quality for users and ease-of-use for device manufacturers.

New products to announce this month include: Coriolis and electromagnetic process flowmeters with IO-Link from Endress+Hauser; PROFINET cables from CTi; distance radar sensors with PROFINET from OndoSense; and displacement sensors with PROFINET from Micro-Epsilon.

PROFINET One-Day Training Classes continue with the last two classes for 2024 in Philadelphia, PA on October 22nd and Dallas, TX on November 7th. Hope to see you there!

There are two great PROFIsafe events coming up in November – one is a refresher on PROFIsafe, and the other is is a deep dive. Register today for one or both!

The first rounds of Certified PROFINET Engineer trainings have occurred in the last few months, notably training participants on PROFINET PA. The PROFINET PA portion focuses on bringing PROFINET into hazardous areas via Ethernet-APL.

The introduction of Ethernet-APL has brought with it the potential to unlock vast amounts of data. And with this new technology, the process industry is facing new challenges in order to increase plant efficiency, reduce production costs, and ensure human and environmental safety. Perhaps it is time to rethink field device development. Here, we look at 7 steps to consider.