GE Intelligent Platforms PACSystems with integrated real-time ProfiNet

GE Intelligent Platforms has launched PACSystems with integrated real-time ProfiNet, a global open protocol over standard ethernet, and that is made for businesses moving from centralised control systems to ethernet-based distributed structures. It provides a high-speed network with the ability to drop large amounts of I/O without compromising performance and can operate in high-noise areas and cover large distances in real time with redundancy capabilities to maximise uptime.

Name-based configuration shortens set-up time. Built-in switches with a choice of copper or fibre cable types for direct connection means that no extra hardware is needed for connectivity, allowing long distances between I/O nodes and increased reliability. The adoption of MRP (media redundancy protocol) in a ring topology allows users to take nodes offline for maintenance without ever shutting the application. In the event of a wire cut, the system redirects traffic in as low as 1 ms without disrupting I/O.

Multi-disciplined automation platforms require real-time, open standards-based connectivity, not only to devices on the plant floor, but also to production management systems that share data and information throughout the enterprise. PACSystems with integrated ProfiNet appears to fulfil this requirement by providing a plug-and-play solution to deploy real-time industrial ethernet-based communications at all levels of the manufacturing enterprise, utilising TCP/IP along with open IT standards.