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PROFINET is an open Industrial Ethernet standard. It is a communication protocol that exchanges data between automation controllers and devices. With over 25 million installed nodes (as of 2018), PROFINET is one of the most widely used Industrial Ethernet standards worldwide. But even though millions of users are familiar with PROFINET, not all users understand…

Device manufacturers wanting to equip an automation device with a PROFINET interface have different options for implementation. Before deciding on a specific implementation method, it’s important to first determine which functions will be supported by the PROFINET automation device: Real-Time Requirements IEEE 802.3 ensures problem-free communication between PROFINET automation devices and among PROFINET automation devices…

The Easy Way to PROFINET brochure is a guide for PROFINET development. The document focuses on the development and implementation of PROFINET products. We have created our own version of the brochure to support local developers in North America. Read this short excerpt of the Product Development Cycle Section and make sure to read the whole guide: Consulting Integration…

PROFINET can be connected wirelessly as easily and seamlessly as it can be connected with regular wires (copper, fiber). Wireless is part of PROFINET’s specification for two wireless standards: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. When speaking about wireless PROFINET communications for industrial automation, there are a variety of architectures available depending on the particular application. This post will go…

PROFINET cable manufacturers offer a range of cable types and classes for different applications, including those with special properties. These cables come in two flavors: copper and fiber optics. This post covers installation considerations for fiber optics cables. Because fiber optic cables do not carry electrical currents or voltages they are totally immune to electromagnetic…

It is crucial to start a PROFINET project by reading the installation guidelines. The PROFINET guidelines help ensure your networks are stable and efficient. This year, some blogposts(like this one) will cover installation topics. Here are some tips and best practices for your PROFINET installation: Routing PROFINET Cables PROFINET Cabling should be routed appropriately and…

Redundancy is a requirement in many process automation systems.  Four PROFINET system redundancy configurations have been defined by PROFIBUS & PROFINET International: S1, S2, R1, and R2. First, S or R denotes whether a PROFINET node implements either a Single or a set of Redundant Network Access Point (NAP).  Then, the number following S or R determines the number…

Generally, in an automation network, there are many components that can potentially fail. Depending on the end user’s requirement, PROFINET allows them to build a reliable network according to their specific goals. Specifically, there are four PROFINET redundant components: Media Redundancy, Controller Redundancy, Device Redundancy, and Network Redundancy. Device Redundancy A network with device redundancy has a…

PROFINET offers a variety of possible topologies: tree, line, ring, star, etc. Nearly all PROFINET devices have two ports on them, and behind these two ports, there is an integrated switch which allows the creation of a line topology. Some topologies permit redundant media and decrease the chance of failure. Specifically, PROFINET allows you to…