Technology

PROFINET is a real-time Ethernet protocol that is used in all areas of industry: from motion control and factory automation to process technology. The three available communication channels are adapted to the requirements of different device classes and applications and can be implemented in parallel with the same network or device: standard channel (TCP/IP, UDP/IP), real-time channel RT (Real Time), and synchronous real-time channel IRT (Isochronous Real Time).

PROFINET networks therefore offer many advantages:

• High degree of flexibility with regard to performance
• All network devices can be accessed as TCP/IP devices
• Standard Ethernet components can be connected directly
• Web servers and TCP/IP-based protocols can be used without additional effort while still offering adequate levels of performance
• Functional safety can be integrated by means of PROFIsafe
• Optimum interaction between standard Ethernet and real-time Ethernet via PROFINET

PROFINET networks are particularly flexible. You can therefore implement various requirements easily and more cost-effectively.

• Star, line, and ring structures can also be implemented as hybrid structures
• Communication via existing copper cable networks
• Use of fiber optic technology which is not susceptible to electromagnetic interference – ideal for large network coverage
• Redundancy concepts for reliable communication in the event of an error
• Wireless data transmission via WLAN and Bluetooth

PROFINET offers non-proprietary, combined network and device diagnostics. In addition to the diagnostic mechanisms of PROFINET, other standards such as SNMP and HTTP can be used for network diagnostics and web-based device diagnostics. While UDP/IP and DCP are used to establish a connection to the components, devices are addressed using device names. Time synchronization corresponds to international standard IEC 61588.

In addition, integrated topology detection enables error locations to be pinpointed quickly. PROFINET therefore offers a modular diagnostic concept and maximum availability for your system.

In addition to real-time-capable I/O data and TCP/IP-based communication, PROFINET networks also support safety-related communication according to EN ISO 13849-1 and IEC 61508 via the network. Communication is safeguarded by the PROFIsafe protocol between safety controller and I/O device. Light grids and other safety mechanisms can be coupled to the network directly.

Outputs, e.g., drives, are shut down safely. Safe and standard communication can be used together in a single device.

PROFINET technology is very much embedded in the established non-proprietary specification processes of the PROFINET User Organization (PNO).

The PNO draws up and updates open specifications for actual communication, installation guidelines, and connector definitions, as well as certification procedures and user profiles.

The devices are tested and allocated to various conformance classes in test and certification centers.