What is the Difference between Profibus and Profinet?

Summary

The video script provides a detailed comparison between two industrial communication protocols, Profibus and Profinet, both widely used in Siemens control systems. Profibus, released in 1993, is a well-established protocol with over 50 million devices installed by the end of 2017. It uses a DB-9 serial connector, identifiable by its purple cable and unique addressing system. Profibus operates at speeds from 9600 bits per second to 12 megabits per second, with cable lengths up to 1000 meters but requiring shorter lengths for higher data rates. On the other hand, Profinet, a newer Ethernet-based protocol, uses standard RJ-45 Ethernet jacks and green-colored cables, designed for harsh environments. It operates at 100 megabits per second with a response time of less than 1 millisecond, making it ideal for high-speed applications. Profinet devices have three types of addresses: IP, MAC, and a unique device name. The video emphasizes the growing preference for Profinet due to its higher speed and flexibility, and the importance for automation engineers to be familiar with both protocols.

Takeaways

• 📈 Profibus and Profinet are distinct industrial communication protocols used by Siemens control systems.
• 🔌 Profibus utilizes a DB-9 serial connector and is identifiable by its purple cable jacket, while Profinet uses an RJ-45 Ethernet jack and green cables.
• 🔄 Profibus allows daisy-chaining with pass-through ports on some connectors and requires a terminating resistor for proper network operation.
• 📊 Each device on a Profibus network must have a unique address from 1 to 127, supporting a maximum of 127 devices on one network.
• 🚀 Profibus operates at speeds ranging from 9600 bits per second to 12 megabits per second, with cable lengths varying based on data rates.
• 🌐 Profinet is an Ethernet-based protocol, offering high-speed operation at 100 megabits per second with a response time of less than 1 millisecond.
• 🏗 Profinet is suitable for harsh industrial environments and can be expanded using standard Ethernet switches.
• 📍 Profinet devices have three types of addresses: IP address, MAC address, and a unique device name, with automation engineers focusing on device names and IP addresses.
• 🔑 Profinet is becoming the preferred protocol for industrial applications due to its higher speed and flexibility.
• 🤝 Familiarity with both Profibus and Profinet is crucial for a controls engineer's role.
• 📚 For career advancement in PLC programming and understanding industrial communication protocols, resources like realpars.com can be beneficial.

Q & A

What are the key differences between Profibus and Profinet protocols?

Profibus and Profinet are both industrial communication protocols used by Siemens control systems. Profibus, released in 1993, is an older technology with over 50 million devices installed by the end of 2017, operating at speeds from 9600 bits per second to 12 megabits per second. It uses a DB-9 serial connector and purple cables. Profinet, on the other hand, is a newer Ethernet-based protocol with a standard RJ-45 Ethernet jack interface, operating at 100 megabits per second. It is ideal for high-speed applications and uses green-colored cables.

What does the red switch on the back of some Profibus connectors control?

The red switch on the back of some Profibus connectors controls the Terminating Resistor. This switch must be set to the 'on' position on the last device in the network and 'off' for every other device to prevent a bus fault.

What is the maximum number of devices that can reside on a single Profibus network?

A single Profibus network can support up to 127 devices, each with a unique address ranging from 1 to 127.

How does the address of a device on a Profibus network get configured?

For some devices, the address is set using software like STEP7 or TIA Portal. For others, the address is configured using DIP switches located on the front of the device.

What is the maximum length of a Profibus cable for different data rates?

While Profibus cables may be up to 1000 meters long, shorter cable lengths are required for higher data rates.

Why are official Profinet cables recommended over standard Ethernet cables?

Official Profinet cables are recommended because they contain robust shielding and are designed to function well in harsh industrial environments, ensuring reliable communication.

What are the three different types of addresses used by Profinet devices?

Profinet devices use an IP address, a MAC address, and a device name. While all Ethernet devices use IP and MAC addresses, the device name is unique to Profinet devices.

What is the typical response time of Profinet, making it suitable for high-speed applications?

Profinet has a response time of less than 1 millisecond, which makes it ideal for high-speed applications.

How does Profinet's use of Ethernet standards affect network expansion?

Because Profinet uses the same physical connection standards as Ethernet, standard Ethernet switches can be used to expand the network, providing greater flexibility.

Why is Profinet becoming the preferred communications protocol for industrial applications?

Profinet is becoming the preferred communications protocol for industrial applications due to its higher speed, greater flexibility, and suitability for high-speed applications.

What is the significance of being familiar with both Profibus and Profinet for a controls engineer?

Being familiar with both Profibus and Profinet is essential for a controls engineer because both protocols are widely used in the industry, and understanding their differences and applications can enhance the engineer's ability to design and maintain industrial control systems.

What is the recommended action for those interested in learning more about PLC programming?

For those interested in learning PLC programming, the script suggests visiting realpars.com for an easy-to-understand format and to take their career to the next level.

Outlines

00:00

📡 Introduction to Profibus and Profinet

The video script begins by differentiating between Profibus and Profinet, two industrial communication protocols widely used by Siemens control systems. Despite their similar names, they are distinct in terms of cable and connector types. The video aims to educate viewers on the differences between these protocols. It also encourages viewers to like, subscribe, and enable notifications for new RealPars videos. Profibus, released in 1993, is a well-established protocol with over 50 million devices installed by the end of 2017. It uses a DB-9 serial connector and is identifiable by its purple cable. The script explains the importance of the terminating resistor and the unique addressing system for devices on a Profibus network, which can range from 1 to 127. The network operates at speeds between 9600 bits per second to 12 megabits per second, with cable lengths varying based on the required data rate.

🌐 Profinet: An Ethernet-Based Protocol

Profinet is introduced as a newer, Ethernet-based industrial communication protocol. It uses a standard RJ-45 Ethernet jack for its physical interface and is recognized by its green-colored cables. The script emphasizes that while standard Ethernet cables might suffice for some connections, official Profinet cables are recommended due to their robust shielding and suitability for harsh industrial environments. Profinet operates at 100 megabits per second with a maximum cable length of 100 meters. It is highlighted for its high-speed operation and suitability for high-speed applications, with a response time of less than 1 millisecond. The script also mentions that standard Ethernet switches can be used with Profinet due to shared physical connection standards. Profinet devices have three types of addresses: an IP address, a MAC address, and a device name, with automation engineers primarily focusing on device names and IP addresses. The video concludes by stating that Profinet is becoming the preferred protocol for industrial applications due to its higher speed and flexibility, and that familiarity with both Profibus and Profinet is crucial for controls engineers. The video ends with a call to action, inviting viewers to learn more about PLC programming on realpars.com.

Keywords

💡Profibus

Profibus, or 'PROcess FIeld BUS,' is an industrial communication protocol that was released in 1993. It is a well-established technology with over 50 million devices installed by the end of 2017. The protocol is used extensively in various control applications and is characterized by its purple-colored cables and unique connectors, which may include a pass-through port for daisy-chaining devices. Profibus operates at speeds ranging from 9600 bits per second to 12 megabits per second and is a key focus for controls engineers due to its widespread use in Siemens control systems.

💡Profinet

Profinet is a newer, Ethernet-based industrial communications protocol that offers high-speed operation and is ideal for applications requiring quick response times. It uses standard RJ-45 Ethernet jacks and green-colored cables, which are designed with robust shielding to withstand harsh industrial environments. Profinet operates at 100 megabits per second and allows for network expansion using standard Ethernet switches. It is becoming the preferred protocol for industrial applications due to its higher speed and flexibility, and it is an essential skill for automation engineers to master.

💡Industrial Communication Protocols

Industrial communication protocols are standardized methods for data exchange between industrial electronic systems. In the context of the video, Profibus and Profinet are two such protocols used by Siemens control systems. These protocols are crucial for the operation of automated machinery and systems in industrial settings, enabling efficient and reliable data transfer between components.

💡Siemens Control Systems

Siemens control systems are a type of automation technology used in various industrial applications. The video script highlights that both Profibus and Profinet protocols are used extensively by these systems, indicating the importance of understanding these protocols for anyone working with Siemens technology. Siemens control systems often require specialized knowledge of communication protocols to ensure seamless operation and integration of various components.

💡Cables and Connectors

Cables and connectors are essential components in industrial communication protocols, as they facilitate the physical connection between devices. The video mentions that Profibus uses purple-colored cables and DB-9 serial connectors, while Profinet uses standard RJ-45 Ethernet jacks and green-colored cables. These physical attributes are important for identifying and correctly implementing the protocols in an industrial setting.

💡Terminating Resistor

A terminating resistor is a component used in electrical signaling to absorb the signal energy at the end of a transmission line. In the context of Profibus, the terminating resistor is controlled by a red switch on the back of the connector. It is crucial for indicating the end of the Profibus network and must be set to 'on' on the last device and 'off' on every other device to prevent bus faults.

💡Unique Address

In the context of Profibus networks, each device must have a unique address ranging from 1 to 127. This addressing scheme allows for the identification and communication with up to 127 devices on a single network. The unique address can be set using software like STEP7 or TIA Portal, or manually via DIP switches on the device. This concept is central to the organization and operation of Profibus networks.

💡Data Rates

Data rates refer to the speed at which data is transmitted over a communication channel. The video mentions that Profibus networks operate at speeds from 9600 bits per second to 12 megabits per second, while Profinet operates at a higher speed of 100 megabits per second. These data rates are significant as they determine the efficiency and suitability of the protocols for various industrial applications.

💡Ethernet

Ethernet is a widely used family of computer networking technologies, based on the IEEE 802.3 standard, for local area networks (LAN). In the video, Profinet is described as an Ethernet-based protocol, which means it utilizes the same physical connection standards as Ethernet, allowing for the use of standard Ethernet switches and cables in its implementation. This compatibility with Ethernet infrastructure is a significant advantage of Profinet.

💡Device Names and IP Addresses

Device names and IP addresses are unique identifiers used in networked systems. For Profinet devices, these are crucial for network configuration and communication. An IP address is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to an Internet Protocol (IP) network, while a device name is a unique identifier specific to Profinet devices. The video emphasizes that automation engineers will primarily be concerned with these identifiers when setting up and managing Profinet networks.

💡Controls Engineer

A controls engineer is a professional who specializes in the design, implementation, and management of control systems in industrial automation. The video script suggests that being familiar with both Profibus and Profinet protocols is essential for a controls engineer, as these are widely used in the industry. Understanding these protocols allows controls engineers to effectively work with Siemens control systems and other industrial applications.

Highlights

Profibus and Profinet are industrial communication protocols extensively used by Siemens control systems.

Profibus and Profinet, despite their similar names, are very different protocols using distinct cables and connectors.

Profibus, released in 1993, is a well-established industrial communication protocol with over 50 million devices installed by the end of 2017.

A Profibus connection port resembles a standard DB-9 serial connector but operates on a different underlying protocol.

Profibus cables are easily recognizable by their purple outer jacket and may feature a pass-through port for daisy-chaining devices.

Each Profibus connector has a red switch on the back to control the Terminating Resistor, which indicates the end of the network.

Incorrectly setting the Terminating Resistor switch can cause a bus fault.

Devices on a Profibus network must have a unique address ranging from 1 to 127, allowing up to 127 devices on a single network.

Profibus networks operate at speeds from 9600 bits per second to 12 megabits per second with cable lengths up to 1000 meters.

Profinet is a newer, Ethernet-based industrial communication protocol with a standard RJ-45 Ethernet jack interface.

Profinet cables are identifiable by their green color and should be used for their robust shielding and industrial durability.

Profinet operates at 100 megabits per second with a response time of less than 1 millisecond, making it ideal for high-speed applications.

Standard Ethernet switches can be utilized to expand Profinet networks due to its use of the same physical connection standards as Ethernet.

Profinet devices have three types of addresses: an IP address, a MAC address, and a unique device name.

As an automation engineer, focusing on Device Names and IP addresses is crucial when configuring Profinet networks.

Profinet is becoming the preferred communications protocol for industrial applications due to its higher speed and flexibility.

Familiarity with both Profibus and Profinet protocols is essential for a controls engineer's job.

For career advancement in PLC programming, RealPars provides easy-to-understand formats and resources.

Transcripts

Profibus and Profinet are industrial communications protocols

used extensively by Siemens control systems.

While they may sound similar,

don't let the names fool you

Profibus and Profinet are very different protocols

that use different cables and connectors.

Let's take a look at these protocols and learn how they differ from one another.

Before we get into today's video,

if you love our videos,

be sure to click the like button below.

and, make sure to click subscribe

and the bell to receive notifications of new RealPars videos.

This way you never miss another one!

Released in 1993, Profibus, or “ PROcess FIeld BUS,”

is a tried and true industrial communication protocol.

With over 50 million devices installed by the end of 2017,

it is a well established technology used in many different control applications.

A Profibus connection port may look very familiar to you

it looks just like a standard DB-9 serial connector.

While it may look the same, the underlying protocol is very different.

Most Profibus cable looks like this.

It is easily recognizable by its purple outer jacket.

Some Profibus connectors have a pass-through port on the back of the connector

so that you can daisy chain another device to the bus.

Note that both kinds of connectors have a red switch on the back.

This switch controls the Terminating Resistor.

The terminating resistor indicates the end of the ProfiBus network.

This switch must be set to the “on” position on the last device,

and “off” for every other device.

If these switches are set incorrectly, a bus fault will occur.

Each device on a Profibus network

must have a unique address, ranging from 1 to 127.

This means that up to 127 devices may reside on a single Profibus network.

For some devices, the address will be set using STEP7 or TIA Portal.

For others, the address must be configured

using dip switches located on the front of the device.

Profibus networks operate at speeds of 9600 bits per second to 12 megabits per second.

While Profibus cables may be up to 1000 meters long,

shorter cable lengths are required for higher data rates.

Profinet is a newer, Ethernet based industrial communications protocol.

The physical interface used for Profinet

is a standard RJ-45 Ethernet jack.

Profinet cables are easily recognizable by their green color.

While in some cases a standard Ethernet cable

may be used to connect two Profinet devices,

official Profinet cables should be used

as they contain robust shielding and are designed to function well

in harsh industrial environments.

Profinet operates at 100 megabits per second,

and cables may be up to 100 meters in length.

Due to its high speed operation

and a response time of less than 1 millisecond,

Profinet is ideal for high speed applications.

Because Profinet uses the same physical connection standards as Ethernet,

standard Ethernet switches can be used to expand your network.

Profinet devices have three different types of addresses:

an IP address, a MAC address, and a device name.

All Ethernet devices use IP addresses and MAC addresses,

but the device name is unique to Profinet devices.

As an automation engineer, you will be primarily concerned

with Device Names and IP addresses

as you configure your Profinet networks.

Due to its higher speed and greater flexibility,

Profinet is becoming the preferred communications protocol

for industrial application.

Both protocols are widely used today,

and being familiar with both of them

will be essential to your job as a controls engineer.

Want to learn PLC programming in an easy to understand format

and take your career to the next level?

Head on over to realpars.com