The ASM 456 and the RF160C comprise a basic module and a connection block that must be ordered separately. When connecting PROFIBUS, the customer can choose between ECOFAST connections and M12, 7/8" connections.

A pre-assembled reader cable, available in lengths from 2 m to 50 m, is used to connect one or two readers/SLGs to the communication module. The cable can also be assembled by the customer as required.

The PROFIBUS DP procedure according to EN 50170 Vol. 2 PROFIBUS for communication between the communication module and SIMATIC S7 (or any PROFIBUS master) and the MOBY-specific procedures for communication between ASM and reader are implemented on the communication modules.

The data in the transponder can be accessed as follows:

• Direct addressing via absolute addresses
• Conveniently via the MOBY file handler (RF300 only) using file names (for ASM 456 only)

On the PROFIBUS DP, the communication module occupies a node address on the bus that is set on the connection block. The communication module is integrated into the hardware configuration by means of a device master (GSD) file. Then the communication module can be configured by means of the software tool HW_Config of the SIMATIC Manager or another PROFIBUS tool.

Error messages and operating states (transponder in the field, transmission active, etc.) are indicated additionally by means of LEDs and simplify commissioning and service.

ASM 456 and RF160C have two reader interfaces which also provide the readers with power. In the communication module, the power supply of the readers has an electronic fuse. If the reader requires more than 400 mA current (e.g. RF290R), only one reader can be operated on the communication module to avoid exceeding the maximum permissible current.

ASM 456

The ASM directly accesses the data in the transponder or the data matrix code via absolute addresses (FB/FC45, FB/FC55) or more conveniently using the MOBY file handler (FC56) and file names. The communication module is operated in non-cyclic mode over PROFIBUS DP V1. Consequently, a very large amount of data can be transferred to/from the communication module without overloading the PROFIBUS cycle. This has advantages when transferring large volumes of data. In addition, the communication module can process concatenated transponder commands very quickly in this mode.

Function blocks FB101/116/132 or the Ident Library in the SIMATIC S7 are available for the "RFID standard profile" mode. The Ident Library is integrated in the TIA Portal an doffers functions that are very easy to parameterize. The communication module is also integrated in SIMOTION by means of the "RFID standard profile" mode.

SIMATIC RF160C

The data in the transponder is accessed via absolute addresses. The FC44 function block is available for SIMATIC S7 for this purpose. The RF160C is operated in cyclic mode over PROFIBUS DP-V0. This ensures a deterministic response in data communication in every case. Where there are large volumes of data, together with large-scale bus configurations, the data throughput should be tested with a tool which is provided on the DVD "RFID Systems, Software and Documentation". The programming interface to RF160C is extremely easy to use and can be programmed efficiently in any controller. The RF160C is therefore particularly suitable for use with non-Siemens controllers and older PROFIBUS masters.