The SIMATIC RF170C comprises an electronics module and a connection block that must be ordered separately. The interface module is available in PROFIBUS or PROFINET version.

• For the PROFIBUS connection, you can choose between ECOFAST, M12, 7/8" or screwed cable gland for the connection system.
• For the PROFINET interface module, the M12, 7/8" or push pull (RJ45 or SCRJ FO) connection system is available.

Integration of SIMATIC RF170C into SIMATIC STEP 7 is already implemented in the TIA Portal but can also be accomplished by means of a Hardware Support Package (HSP). The GSD file of the ET 200pro system is available for integration into non-Siemens systems.

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

The data in the transponder is accessed by direct addressing using absolute addresses.

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

The SIMATIC RF170C has two reader interfaces from which the readers are also supplied with power. In the SIMATIC RF170C, the power supply for the readers has an electronic fuse. The maximum permissible current per SIMATIC RF170C for the readers is 0.8 A. It is of no importance here whether the current is drawn by one or two readers. Optical MV300 handheld readers are also supplied by the RF170C with 5 V voltage.

Serial devices with RS232 or RS422 interfaces can be connected by means of the freely configurable Freeport protocol. The power supply from the RF170C is also available for the connected devices as long as these are operated with the following voltages: 24 V / max. 0.8 A or 5 V / max. 1.2 A. The maximum current values apply to two devices, but they can also be consumed by a single device if only one device is connected.

Access to the data in the transponder or the data matrix code (DMC) is available with the Ident profile, FB45 or FB55 function blocks. The RF170C also supports the functions of the Ident Library. The Ident Library is already integrated in the TIA Portal and offers functions that are very easy to parameterize. When operating devices over the Freeport protocol, the Ident profile or FB45 function blocks must be used.

Communication between the SIMATIC RF170C and the controller is acyclic. Consequently, a very large amount of data can be transferred to/from the SIMATIC RF170C without overloading the bus cycle. This has advantages when transferring large volumes of data. The SIMATIC RF170C can also process concatenated transponder commands very quickly in this mode.

Notice: When connecting high-speed RFID systems (e.g. RF300), the data throughput can decrease due to the distributed configuration of the ET 200pro. Therefore use the data throughput calculation tool for configuration. You can find the tool on the DVD with article number 6GT2080-2AA20.