PROFIBUS – the proven, rugged bus system for automation engineering applications

The requirements of users for an open, non-proprietary communication system have resulted in the specification and standardization of the PROFIBUS protocol.

PROFIBUS defines the technical and functional features of a serial fieldbus system, with which the distributed field automation devices in the lower area (sensor/actuator level) can be networked up to the mid performance range (cell level).

Standardization according to IEC 61158/EN 50170 secures your investments for the future.

Using the conformity and interoperability test performed by the test laboratories authorized by PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI) and the certification of the devices by PI, users have the security of knowing that the quality and functionality is guaranteed, even in multi-vendor installations.

PROFIBUS versions

Two different PROFIBUS versions have been defined in order to comply with the widely varying requirements at field level:

• PROFIBUS PA (Process Automation) – the version for applications in process automation. PROFIBUS PA uses the intrinsically safe transmission technology specified in IEC 61158-2.
• PROFIBUS DP (Distributed Periphery) – this version, which is optimized for speed, is specifically tailored to the communication of automation systems with distributed I/O stations and drives. PROFIBUS DP sets itself apart as a result of very short response times and high noise immunity, and replaces cost-intensive, parallel signal transfer with 24 V and measured value transfer utilizing 0/4 … 20 mA technology.