SST 5136-PFB-104 PROFIBUS Communication Module

Description

1. Core Overview & Function

2. Key Features & Characteristics

• PROFIBUS DP-V1 Slave:​ Supports both cyclic data exchange​ (for real-time process data) and acyclic services​ (for parameterization, diagnostics, and alarms).
• Flexible Integration:​ Typically designed as a plug-in module​ or daughter card​ that fits into a specific host device’s proprietary slot or bus.
• Dual-Port Memory Interface:​ Often uses a dual-port RAM​ interface to facilitate fast, low-level data exchange with the host device’s CPU.
• Configurable Data Size:​ The amount of input and output data (the «process image») exchanged over PROFIBUS is configurable via software, typically up to 244 bytes each way, to match the host device’s requirements.
• Diagnostics:​ Provides comprehensive diagnostic information accessible via PROFIBUS (slave status, module faults) to the network master.
• Non-Volatile Memory:​ Stores configuration (like the PROFIBUS node address and parameters) permanently.

3. Typical Host Systems & Form Factor

• Drive Controllers:​ To give a variable frequency drive (VFD) or servo drive a PROFIBUS DP port.
• Third-Party PLCs or PACs:​ To allow a non-PROFIBUS controller to connect to a PROFIBUS network as a slave.
• Specialized I/O or Measurement Devices:​ To network devices like weigh scales, barcode readers, etc.

4. Technical Specifications

• PROFIBUS Interface:
  • Protocol:​ PROFIBUS DP-V1 slave.
  • Connector:​ 9-pin D-sub female (standard).
  • Baud Rate:​ Auto-detect or configurable from 9.6 kbps to 12 Mbps.
  • Address:​ Set via rotary switches or software (address range 1-125).
• Host Interface:​ Proprietary to the host device, but commonly a parallel bus or dual-port RAM interface.
• Configuration:​ Requires SST configuration software​ (e.g., SST PROFIBUS DP Configuration Tool) to set up the data mapping between the host device’s internal registers and the PROFIBUS input/output image.
• Power:​ Typically powered directly from the host device (e.g., +5V DC).
• LED Indicators:​ Status (RUN/ERR), PROFIBUS network activity (BF), and power.

5. System Integration & Configuration Workflow

1. Physical Installation:​ The module is plugged into its dedicated slot on the host device (e.g., a drive).
2. Hardware Settings:​ The PROFIBUS node address​ is set using DIP switches or rotary switches on the module itself.
3. Software Configuration:
   • Using the SST configuration software, a «Device Description File» (GSD file) for the specific host device (e.g., MyDrive_V3.gsd) is imported into the PROFIBUS master’s configuration tool (e.g., Siemens STEP 7, TIA Portal).
   • In the master’s software, the module appears as a slave. The user configures the size of the input and output data areas (e.g., 4 bytes in, 4 bytes out).
   • The configuration is downloaded to the PROFIBUS master.
4. Data Mapping:​ Within the host device (e.g., the drive’s own programming software), the user maps internal parameters (speed reference, actual speed, fault codes) to the specific PROFIBUS input/output words defined in the GSD configuration.

6. Common Applications

• Integrating Non-PROFIBUS Drives:​ Adding a Rockwell PowerFlex drive to a Siemens PROFIBUS-controlled production line.
• Legacy System Integration:​ Connecting older or specialized equipment to a modern PROFIBUS-based DCS or SCADA system.
• Building Networked I/O Islands:​ Creating a cluster of devices that communicate via a local backplane, with the SST module acting as the gateway to the wider PROFIBUS network.