Fieldbus Solutions

Fieldbuses connect multiple field devices over a single cable or ‘bus.’ In fieldbus networks, distributed IO mechanisms distribute or collect multiple inputs and outputs from the field into a local IO device. The data is then transferred through just one cable to and from the Programming Logic Controller (PLC). Fieldbuses have eliminated the need to individually wire each field device to its controller. They allow multiple analog and digital signals to be connected at the same time. Some fieldbus instruments perform calibration and diagnostics for various operations such as temperature readings, conductivity measurement and flow controls. There are many different types of fieldbuses supported by different manufacturers, most of which are defined by international standards. 

Profibus is a fieldbus network designed for communication between PLCs and devices. This is accomplished through a master-slave communication, where the master (PLC) has multiple slave devices (sensors, motors, actuators, etc) communicating through a single cable. Profibus can handle large amounts of data at high speeds and can serve the needs of large installations. Profinet is similar to Profibus but uses Ethernet for its communication.

Controller Area Network (CAN) is a fast serial bus that is designed to provide a reliable and efficient link between actuators and sensors. CAN uses a twisted pair cable to communicate with up to 40 devices. It provides standardized communication objects for service data, process data, network management, emergency messages and synchronization. The CAN bus is primarily used in embedded systems because it provides fast, real-time communication between microcontrollers.