With the new IE/AS-i Link PN IO router, Siemens Automation and Drives (A&D) offers a compact connection between the Profinet level and the AS-Interface level. As an AS-Interface master, the device provides users integrated exchange of information and diagnostics data. At the same time, the communication interface links higher-level systems even more efficiently with the lowest field level. With the link to Profinet, AS-Interface can now be even better integrated into the world of the Siemens concept of totally integrated automation.
In accordance with AS-i specification 3.0, up to 62 slaves can be addressed with single or double masters. Profinet I/O controllers use the device to exchange cyclically with the lower-level AS-Interface slaves. In addition, acyclic services such as those for parameterising or diagnosing are capable of carrying out AS-i master calls. Users can start up the lower-level AS-i segment fully via an integral operator display in the IE/AS-i-Link PN I/O. In addition, slaves can also be parameterised via the display or a complete I/O test of all digital and analog slaves can be carried out - and without connection to the higher-level system.
During operation, detailed diagnostics information is available to the user on the display. This helps to immediately locate the fault location when required and thus significantly reduce standstill times. These functions can also be used remotely via a standard browser thanks to the integral Web server.
Thanks to the combination with an upstream WLAN module, an AS-Interface segment can be integrated wirelessly into Profinet, avoiding costly cabling.
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