PROFINET

PROFINET (Process Field Network) is an Industrial Ethernet standard based on TCP/IP. PROFINET extends PROFIBUS technology with Ethernet functionality. PROFINET is divided into PROFINET CBA and PROFINET IO.

PROFINET CBA (Component-Based Automation) was developed for component-based communication via TCP/IP and real-time communication in modular plant engineering. A PROFINET CBA system consists of various automation components; each component encompasses all mechanical, electrical, and IT-related aspects.

PROFINET IO is designed for real-time and clock-synchronous communication with decentralized peripherals. PROFINET IO defines the entire data exchange between masters and slaves, as well as their parameterization and diagnostics. Field devices in a PROFIBUS segment can be integrated into the PROFINET IO system via an IO proxy.