Communication processors

Siemens has developed two communications processors for connecting PCs and S7-300 controllers to Profibus and industrial ethernet.

Simatic Net CP 5711 is an external adapter that links commercially available PCs to Profibus via their on-board USB 2.0 port. The Simatic Net CP 343-1 ERPC expansion module connects Simatic-S7-300 controllers with databases via industrial ethernet.

The CP 5711 supports all MPI and Profibus communications services up to a rate of 12 Mbps, eg, DP Master/DP Slave, S7/S5 and PG/OP. The module has a 24 V power supply connection in case the USB interface of the PC is unable to supply sufficient power. The Profibus and USB connectors can be locked mechanically so that cables are securely connected in a typical commissioning and servicing environment. It can also optionally be mounted on a DIN rail.

The CP 343-1 ERPC is used for directly connecting Simatic-S7-300 controllers to database systems via industrial ethernet. This enables controllers to be supplied with data or jobs directly from databases on the MES or ERP management level. In addition to the connection with other automation systems such as Simatic controllers, PCs or control systems, the CP allows for direct linking of databases such as Oracle, MySQL, MS-SQL and DB2 using optional software packages.