A closer look at today’s diagnostics concepts for serial field busses (eg, Profibus), Ethernet-based field busses (eg, Profinet) and industrial Ethernet networks reveals principal differences between the systems as well as advantages and disadvantages of existing diagnostics products. A parallel analysis of customer requirements for efficient network diagnostics shows that a lot is left to be desired. This is why Trebing + Himstedt have developed a trendsetting, unified diagnostics concept that features a combination of remote monitoring and central analysis.
Diagnostics of serial field busses
Field bus systems such as Profibus, Interbus or CAN using RS485 bus physics have been analysed for more than 20 years. The basic principle is identical for all protocols: a passive station monitors all telegram exchange and evaluates the recorded telegrams based on the respective protocol stack. This information forms the basis for a status display of the entire network and all connected stations. Most tools focus on complex telegram analysis with extensive trigger and filter functions which are highly useful for experts and service providers when troubleshooting, but are far too complex for the user. Bus physics may be tested with easy-to-use wire testers; however, this has the drawbacks of plant downtime and the fact that many failures are missed because they occur only temporarily, maybe even for only a few milliseconds. Taking account of the limits of these tools, Trebing + Himstedt already focused on ease of use with their first diagnostics tool, the Profibus Scope. With the xEPI 2 diagnostics unit, a solution for permanent, stationary monitoring of entire networks was launched for the first time. All key diagnosis information is available via a web browser at any time; an alert function notifies of problems even before they actually occur.
The formula for success for efficient network diagnostics
1. Permanent network monitoring instead of reactive troubleshooting.
2. Automatic alert in case of failures – ‘The network notifies the user in case of problems’.
3. Use of intelligent devices (managed components such as switches).
4. Traffic light principle for diagnostics.
5. Permanent documentation and inventory taking of network and devices.
Ethernet connectivity for embedded systems
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Delivering Ethernet connectivity for embedded systems, XPort ETH Click is a compact add-on board from MIKROE, the embedded solutions company that dramatically cuts development time by providing innovative hardware and software products based on proven standards.
Read more...Compact mini PC Vepac Electronics
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
AS AAEON’s first Intel Core-powered PICO-SEMI system capable of fanless operation, the PICO-MTU4-SEMI from Vepac Electronics is easily deployed as part of larger equipment setups or integrated as the central unit of smart robotics solutions such as AGVs, AMRs and drones requiring minimal maintenance.
Read more...Future-ready I/O to redefine connectivity Schneider Electric South Africa
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Schneider Electric South Africa has launched its state-of-the-art Modicon Edge I/O NTS. This future-ready I/O redefines connectivity, data aggregation and operational efficiency for industrial applications.
Read more...Referro Systems delivers industrial connectivity
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
To meet the growing demand for secure, flexible and reliable remote access for industrial network connectivity for its clients, Referro Systems has added Rockwell Automation’s Stratix 4300 to its inventory of products.
Read more...Revolutionising plant operations with ETHERLINE GUARD LAPP Southern Africa
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
Ethernet cables often suffer from wear and tear, environmental factors or accidental damage, leading to unexpected failures. LAPP Group understands these pain points and is proud to introduce the ETHERLINE GUARD PM03T/PM02TWA, an innovative solution to keep your operations running smoothly.
Read more...Case History 199: Another example of the effectiveness of cascade control Michael Brown Control Engineering
Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
In my last article I wrote about how cascade control systems can effectively overcome valve problems. This article gives another example of how a temperature control was able to perform well, in spite of really severe valve problems.
Read more...Upgrading legacy automation Omron Electronics
Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Legacy automation is characterised by technology in the later stages of its useful life. As new automation technologies continue to emerge and interconnect at an exponential rate, failing to integrate these technologies can widen the gap between the competitive and the obsolete.
Read more...A one-stop-shop for industrial
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
HMS Networks has announced that Red Lion and N-Tron are officially product brands. For thousands of automation engineers and system integrators worldwide, this means that scalable industrial solutions for cloud connectivity, edge intelligence, asset management, industrial Ethernet switches, panel meters and operator panels are now available from one trusted source.
Read more...Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector for seamless deployment Vepac Electronics
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The Edimax GP-203IT from Vepac Electronics is a Power over Ethernet injector that not only delivers a cost-effective solution for power distribution, but also enables seamless deployment on the existing LAN infrastructure.
Read more...A one-stop-shop for industrial communication
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
HMS Networks has announced that Red Lion and N-Tron are officially product brands. For thousands of automation engineers and system integrators worldwide, this means that scalable industrial solutions for cloud connectivity, edge intelligence, asset management, industrial Ethernet switches, panel meters and operator panels are now available from one trusted source.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version