The PROFIBUS DP fieldbus enables the SIMATIC PCS 7 automation systems (controllers) to communicate with distributed I/Os from the ET 200 range (remote I/Os) as well as with field/process devices, CPUs/CPs and operator terminals that have a PROFIBUS DP interface. With the aid of the fieldbus isolating transformer (RS 485-iS coupler) and the RS 485-iS transmission technology, PROFIBUS DP can be run as an intrinsically-safe fieldbus in all environments up to Ex zone 1 or 21.

Controller communication with intelligent distributed devices on PROFIBUS PA, FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 or HART I/Os is also implemented via PROFIBUS DP.

In a SIMATIC PCS 7 automation system, PROFIBUS DP lines can be connected to distributed process I/O both via a PROFIBUS DP interface in the CPU and via a CP 443-5 Extended communication module. On a PROFIBUS DP line it is possible to operate up to 125 devices, and on a bus segment up to 31 devices with PROFIBUS DP interface (32 stations).

Electrical and optical transmission technologies offer many different configuration options for PROFIBUS DP networks. Electrical networks can span up to approx. 10 km. With optical transmission systems, the total size of the network is governed primarily by the cycle times as a result of the almost loss-free transmission.

With SIMATIC PCS 7, PROFIBUS DP topologies are always implemented through the standard electrical PROFIBUS DP connection on the automation system in the form of electrical or mixed (electrical/optical) networks. In the case of mixed networks, the transition between the two media is implemented by an optical link module (OLM). As regards communication between the stations, there is no difference between electrical two-wire technology and fiber-optic technology.

Electrical networks can be configured with a line or tree topology. Mixed electrical/optical networks with OLMs as routers can be configured with a line, ring or star topology.