Examples of FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 architectures

When FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 is integrated in the SIMATIC PCS 7 process control system, PROFIBUS DP acts as a link. The following graphical representations show possible FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 architectures with:

• PROFIBUS DP master in non-redundant design (AS Single Station)
• PROFIBUS DP master in redundant design (AS Redundancy Station)

Depending on the configured PROFIBUS DP master, the gateway between PROFIBUS DP and FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 is formed by a single Compact FF Link (AS Single Station) or a redundant Compact FF Link pair (AS Redundancy Station) (for details, see graphics). One FF fieldbus segment can be operated on each gateway.

FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 on an AS Single Station as PROFIBUS DP master

FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 on an AS Redundancy Station as PROFIBUS DP master

Line architecture with single Compact FF Link

A line segment can be connected to an individual PROFIBUS DP line via a Compact FF Link. The FF‑field devices can be integrated into the line segment via AFD active field distributors, e.g. AFD4, AFD4 RAILMOUNT, AFD4 FM and AFD8 (approval for Ex zone 2/22) and AFDiSD (approval for Ex zone 1/21). The FF‑field devices are connected to these field distributors using short-circuit-proof spur lines.

Alternatively, it is possible to operate up to 8 AFD field distributors, up to 5 AFDiSD field distributors or any combination of up to 5 AFDiSD and AFD field distributors in a line segment. The last field distributor at the end of the line farthest away from the Compact FF Link automatically activates its bus terminating resistor.

Line architecture with redundant Compact FF Links

A line segment on the AFS active field distributor (Active Field Splitter) can be connected to a redundant PROFIBUS DP via a redundant Compact FF Link pair. The AFS connected to both Compact FF Links interconnects that line segment connected to it with the active Compact FF Link in each case. A Compact FF Link can be replaced without interrupting the ongoing operation.

The FF field devices are integrated in the line segment as described in the section "Line architecture with single Compact FF Link". The limits with respect to the number of field distributors are also identical (up to 8 AFD, up to 5 AFDiSD or any combination of up to 5 AFDiSD and AFD).

Ring architecture with redundant Compact FF Links

The highest availability can be achieved with a FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 ring segment, which can be connected to a redundant PROFIBUS DP via a redundant Compact FF Link pair.

The FF field devices are integrated into the ring segment using the short-circuit-proof spur lines of the AFD or AFDiS active field distributors. The number of field distributors is limited as with the line architectures (up to 8 AFD, up to 5 AFDiS or any combination of up to 5 AFDiS and AFD).

The bus is terminated automatically and is immediately adapted in the event of changes or faults on the bus. An extension on the fieldbus or replacement of a Compact FF Link during operation is possible.