Gateways extended with integrated 2-Port Switch

HMS helps to reduce system integration costs by releasing three new versions of the Anybus X-gateway family with Profinet-IRT functionality and with integrated 2-port switch technology. The new X-gateway versions enable easy integration of existing Profibus, Interbus or CANopen fieldbus networks into new Profinet based network segments. The gateways provide a transparent link for up to 240 bytes of I/O signals between the two networks. Typical applications include automobile manufacturing sites where existing fieldbus based machinery is more and more re-used and integrated »as is» into new Profinet based areas of the plant.

These three new gateway versions are released with a specific focus on the European automobile industry where current fieldbus networks, like Profibus and Interbus, are slowly being migrated to Profinet. By utilizing the integrated 2-port switch technology, the X-gateway can directly be integrated into line topology based installations which reduces infrastructure costs by eliminating the need for external switches.

The X-gateways include a Profinet IO device interface with »IRT» (Isynchronous Real-Time) functionality, an integrated two port real-time switch, Profinet network management and redundancy functionality that conforms to Profinet conformance class C. The Profinet interface functions as an IO device (Slave) and is based on the proven ERTEC-200 technology from Siemens.

The Anybus X-gateway family consists of 180 different versions and thus can interconnect all popular fieldbusses such as Profibus, DeviceNet and CANopen or connect these fieldbusses with the new industrial Ethernet standards, Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus-TCP and EtherCAT. The gateways are Stand-Alone devices built for DIN-Rail mounting. After power-up, the gateways are immediately ready for data exchange between the two selected networks. Configuration is done within a few minutes and no programming or specific PC Hard- or Software is required. The gateways transmit I/O data and parameters completely transparent between the two networks. The amount of data is configured within a simple configuration dialogue during setup of the gateway.

The gateways can easily be integrated into industrial automation systems and ensure a seamless information flow between different networks. The Anybus X-gateways combine high reliability and flexibility which makes them an indispensible connectivity device for system integrators and plant operators.