Helmholz FLEXtra PROFINET - Essential Components in The Automation of Industrial Machine Networks

Helmholz FLEXtra PROFINET – Essential Components in The Automation of Industrial Machine Networks

Industrial Machines Network Issues

Industrial machine networks’ biggest issues often comprise security and efficiency. The larger the network, the more susceptible it becomes to attack due to its vulnerable points, and with its larger complexity, comes more configurations.

Many industrial switches come with recovery options via USB memory and SD card backups. When backups are not present, the configuration is saved and written to the storage device. If the switch fails, the USB memory stick or SD card can then be plugged into the replacement to resolve and restore the configuration.

Helmholz PROFINET switches are the perfect solution for industrial machine networks needing secure and efficient automation. With the increasing pressure for high standards and efficiency in these networks, the choice between PROFINET or gigabit Ethernet can be daunting. The FLEXtra PROFINET switch offers a solution by allowing communication at both industrial Ethernet and PROFINET levels, making it the ideal choice for these networks. The switch has 16 RJ45 ports and is suitable for use in small control cabinets and sub-distributions due to its vertical cable approaches. [1]

Updates

The FLEXtra PROFINET Coupler has undergone several updates since its release in September 2020. The updates include bug fixes, stability improvements, and new features such as VLAN creation and an SD card configuration interface. Various versions have passed PN certification, addressing issues such as VLAN ID 1 web interface accessibility, port stability, and configuration file handling. The updates range from fixing minor bugs to major feature enhancements, adding error statistics, and collapsible port data status panels. [2]

Mounting network switches, routers, Ethernet-based controllers, and I/O systems on machines creates a need for a higher level of protection from the elements. Helmholz PROFINET switches are designed to meet these needs, with a structured LED display providing clear status and diagnostic information. Additionally, the switch is equipped with 100 Mbps, making it easy to control and monitor through the PLC and engineering tools. A new variant with four LWL ports and a gigabit switch is also in development, further expanding the capabilities of this powerful tool. [1]

In conclusion, Helmholz PROFINET switches are essential components in the automation of industrial machine networks. These switches provide secure and efficient communication between industrial Ethernet and PROFINET levels, ensuring that machines operate smoothly and seamlessly. One of the most beneficial products in the Helmholz PROFINET switch family is the FLEXtra PROFINET switch, which has several advantages over other switches.

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Conclusion

The FLEXtra PROFINET switch has a structured LED display that provides easy control and monitoring of the switch. This display allows users to quickly identify any issues that may arise in the network, enabling them to address these issues promptly. The FLEXtra PROFINET switch also provides a transmission security feature through ring redundancy as an MRP client. This feature ensures that the network operates smoothly, even in the event of a failure in the network.

Another beneficial product in the Helmholz PROFINET switch family is the unmanaged Ethernet switch. This switch has a compact design, making it suitable for a variety of industrial applications. The unmanaged Ethernet switch is lightweight, tough, and easy to integrate into a network using a simple Plug & Play solution. This switch is suitable for PROFINET networks with LLPD and PTCP functions handled according to the PROFINET standard. The unmanaged Ethernet switch complies with PROFINET Conformance Class A.

The managed PROFINET switch is another product in the Helmholz PROFINET switch family. This switch can connect up to eight Ethernet participants with 10 or 100 Mbps. The managed PROFINET switch supports PROFINET according to Conformance Class B and offers transmission security through ring redundancy as an MRP client.

In conclusion, Helmholz PROFINET switches are essential components in the automation of industrial machine networks. These switches provide secure and efficient communication between industrial Ethernet and PROFINET levels, ensuring that machines operate smoothly and seamlessly. The FLEXtra PROFINET switch, unmanaged Ethernet switch, and managed PROFINET switch are all efficient and reliable switches that cater to different network requirements. With their updates, improvements, and features, Helmholz PROFINET switches are always up-to-date and ready to meet the demands of even the most complex industrial networks.

Learn more about Helmholz – PROFINET Switches HERE.

PROFINET is being integrated into an increasing number of production systems and has already become indispensable in the automation industry thanks to the large number of advantages it boasts in comparison to classic bus systems.

The question that quickly comes up is whether it would be possible to use conventional switches instead to save money. PROFINET switches for use in industrial automation technology were designed to fulfil very different requirements than the switches you are familiar with from your IT setup. For example, they have to be compatible with common system-construction standards and be tough enough to withstand adverse conditions. Putting these known requirements aside, there is still a large array of PROFINET functions which you would have to do without if you used conventional “office hardware.”

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