The TIM 4R-IE DNP3 module is connected to a WAN via two floating RS232/RS485 interfaces, and specifically via various data communication devices depending on the application:

• Dedicated line modems for point-to-point, point-to-multipoint or line connections
• Analog dialup modems (V3.0 or higher)
• Fiber-optic cable modules (via RS485 converters)
• Wireless devices from various manufacturers

In addition, it is possible to connect a Modbus RTU slave to the S7-300 system via the TIM 4R-IE DNP3.

Via two RJ45 interfaces, the TIM 4R-IE DNP3 module can be connected to the Ethernet, i.e. to IP-based networks (LAN, IWLAN, DSL, GPRS, UMTS, etc.).

Configuration examples in conventional and IP-based WAN

Use in a station with transmission via a dedicated line network

The connection to the master station is via the MD2 modem, which sets up the connection via a dedicated line.

Use in a station with transmission via Internet

The stations are connected by means of an Internet connection. In this case, DSL routers must be used in the station and control center – preferably in combination with SCALANCE S in order to establish secure connections using VPN tunnels.

Use in a station with transmission over the GSM mobile telephone service GPRS or UMTS

The stations are connected via the GSM mobile telephone service GPRS. In this case the GPRS router MD741-1 is used in the station and a SCALANCE S security module is used in the control center which ensures that the VPN connections are set up with the GPRS stations.

For higher data rates, in place of the GRPS router MD741-1, the UMTS Router SCALANCE M875 can be implemented for use of the UMTS mobile radio network.

Use in a station with path redundancy

The connection of the stations with a TIM 4R-IE DNP3 enables redundant connection paths to be set up. On the failure of the active connection (e.g. the Internet connection) a switch is made to the second connection path (e.g. WAN).