Benefits

All communication requirements covered

With its integrated, Ethernet-based communication, PROFINET satisfies a wide range of requirements, from data-intensive parameter assignment to synchronous I/O signal transmission. Communication takes place over the same cable in all applications, ranging from simple control tasks to highly demanding motion control applications. TCP/IP-based communication in a PROFINET network, e.g., for diagnostics from the control room or via the Internet in remote maintenance scenarios, is always possible in parallel.

Flexible network topology

With its flexible line, ring, and star structures, PROFINET IO conforms to the existing plant situation, thereby eliminating the need for expensive custom solutions. Because the solution is based completely on standard Ethernet, wired and wireless transmission physics can be easily combined. As a result, WLAN- and Bluetooth communication can be integrated transparently into the solution, including for real-time data.

Increased availability

PROFINET IO integrates redundancy solutions, ranging from network redundancy based on IT mechanisms and harmonious switchover operations for fast control processes to control system redundancy for continuous process-related applications. In addition, a flexible diagnostics concept supplies important data regarding the network topology and the status of all devices. This ensures a cross-vendor, location-specific diagnostics. Integrated mechanisms for preventive diagnostics increase the availability, as well.

Functional safety deeply integrated

The proven PROFIsafe safety technology of PROFIBUS is also available for PROFINET IO. Standard and safety-related communication over a single cable opens up new safety function possibilities.

Uniform integration on fieldbus systems

For the integration of existing device structures with fieldbuses, the modular device model of PROFINET IO has been standardized using fieldbus-specific proxy specifications. This ensures consistent addressing, parameter assignment, and diagnostics of the lower-level fieldbus network.

Enabler for Industrie 4.0

Thanks to the future-proof architecture of PROFINET, industrial 4.0 use cases can already be implemented today. New technologies such as TSN can be perfectly integrated and used.