Ethernet/PROFIBUS Gateway FNL supports MODBUS TCP/IP

The Ethernet/PROFIBUS Gateway "Fieldbus Network Link" from COMSOFT is available in a new updated version. The compact hat rail module allows the connection to all copper based PROFIBUS DP networks and supports DP Master class 1/2 on the basis of DP and DPV1 services as well as DP Slave.

The Gateway can be through an operation system independent and well documented TCP/IP socket interface. Thus the cooperation between the lower automation levels and the management/planning level works exemplarily. Remote communication concepts can even be implemented in very extensive plants, e.g. via satellite or virtual private network (VPN), through the integrated 10/100 BaseT Ethernet interface.

The Ethernet based operation mode as MODBUS TCP/IP Slave provides easy integration of FNL as PROFIBUS DP Master into a large number of visualisation and control systems. The PROFIBUS DP based diagnostics and IO data are dynamically compiled into the MODBUS TCP/IP structure and do not have to be configured additionally.

FNL can provide as basis engineering tool. Via COMSOFT's FDT 1.2 Communication DTM that successfully passed the FDT certification test, FNL can be integrated in FDT container applications. Nowadays, FDT container applications are implemented in many process management systems or used as stand-alone solutions. Even PROFIBUS DP networks based on a PLC can be expanded with FNL by the FDT technology.

The new full graphical COMSOFT Network Configurator (CNC) integrates FNL in the network and allows the calibration of all device-specific network parameters, incl. the TCP/IP address.

PROFIBUS configuration is directly loaded and stored on the gateway and allows an immediate start-up and check-up of the network.

Another attractive access option on the network side is our OPC Server. The Server directly connects FNL to all OPC-client-capable Windows applications. OPC is supported by all common SCADA, control, visualization, and process control systems.

A LabVIEW Driver can also be integrated via TCP/IP socket interface. The package includes LabVIEW sample VIs incl. source code for an easy integration.