What Is PROFIBUS?

In computer terminology, the Field is an address identifier, while the Bus is a term for data transportation, shuttling information from point to point in an industrial process. In effect, PROFIBUS is a digital serial communication protocol that enables the efficient exchange of data between multiple devices such as control devices, actuators, sensors, etc. First introduced in the late 1980s, PROFIBUS has become a key element in industrial automation systems for reliable and robust data transportation in a networked environment. 

A Brief History Of PROFIBUS

Over the past 50 years or so, PROFIBUS has evolved from its original concept. This was a standardised communication protocol devised by some of the major players in the industrial automation sector. It’s now one of the industry’s most widely used protocols and has undergone many evolutions, with offshoots developed to handle specific sectors such as process automation (PROFIBUS PA). 

The original function of PROFIBUS was simply to connect field automation devices and facilitate seamless data control and transmission between them. By this means, industrial processes could be efficiently monitored and controlled. As they became increasingly complex, however, the PROFIBUS protocol required updating and improving to meet the ever more advanced demands of industrial technology.

One of these advances was the wider use of the programmable logic controller (PLC) throughout the industry. This meant that a central device had control of a network of field devices and required a high-speed communication protocol to facilitate real-time control and monitoring. The decentralised periphery version of PROFIBUS (PROFIBUS DP) was introduced in the early 1990s specifically to meet this need. It offered improved network performance and faster rates of data transmission, making it ideal for more diverse and demanding applications. 

The process automation version of PROFIBUS (PROFIBUS PA) was introduced later in the same decade. Designed specifically for process automation applications, it enabled control systems to communicate seamlessly with devices such as actuators and transmitters. PROFIBUS PA came with enhancements such as extended cable lengths and built-in safety features so it could be deployed in hazardous environments.

Why PROFIBUS Is So Popular 

Rapidity And Reliability

PROFIBUS has achieved great popularity in industrial settings owing to key features like its rapid data transmission rates and reliable communication. The transmission speed is adjustable to meet the application requirements and offers a range of 9.6 kbit/s to 12 Mbit/s. Its error detection and correction mechanisms are extremely robust, protecting the integrity of data transmission in even the most demanding industrial environments. 

Flexibility

PROFIBUS network topology options are flexible, enabling various different devices to be easily integrated. PROFIBUS supports a variety of network configurations. These include ring topology, multi-drop and point-to-point so that complex automation systems can be created. Which topology is selected depends on factors including the required level of redundancy, the distance between devices and overall network size.

Simplicity

PROFIBUS offers industrial automation a simple, cost-effective solution with its ease of accessibility. Installation and configuration are straightforward and quick to set up, with a user-friendly protocol, easy-to-use tools and software all designed to streamline the installation process. In addition, PROFIBUS has built-in versatility for physical media, supporting fibre optic, copper, and other cables. This means it can factor in variables such as bandwidth requirements, noise immunity and distance.

Efficiency

PROFIBUS utilises what’s now called a client-server communication model, where the client device is in control of the network communication. It initiates data exchange and sends out cyclic messages to the server devices, so data transmission is synchronised and timely. It also uses a mechanism of passing tokens from one device to another, so all devices have fair access to the bus. This mechanism prevents data collisions and ensures that network bandwidth is used efficiently.

Protocols And Standards

Protocols in computing are a set of standardised rules that govern aspects of electronic communication. They include address formatting, data transmission, device configuration and error detection. International standards such as EN 50170 and IEC 61158 are also applied to networked communications. These govern the specifications of the various network layers, including the application layer, data link layer and physical layer. 

Compliance with these standards and protocols ensures that different PROFIBUS devices are compatible and interoperable, irrespective of the individual manufacturer. This makes it much easier to integrate devices from a variety of vendors and is one of the principal reasons the PROFIBUS communication protocol is so widely adopted. 

Benefits And Challenges Of PROFIBUS For Industry

PROFIBUS has provided industrial communication with an efficient and reliable vehicle for data exchange, ensuring that industrial systems can operate without interruption. Its interoperability enables seamless communication between devices of any brand, while its flexible data transmission speeds and network topologies allow PROFIBUS to adapt to a wide variety of application requirements. System integration is much simpler, resulting in lower installation and maintenance costs.

However, there may be some challenges in deploying PROFIBUS in industrial environments. For example, there may be issues with network configuration, signal interference or difficulties with troubleshooting. Such challenges can be overcome with careful planning, design and implementation. PROFIBUS can be successfully implemented in industrial systems with the help of experienced system integrators, thorough testing, and following best practices.

Advances In PROFIBUS Technology

PROFIBUS today provides a flexible and robust means of network communication for industrial automation systems. It offers tools that enable seamless and efficient communication between a range of devices. PROFIBUS is a reliable solution for many different applications due to its high-speed data transmission, choice of network topologies, and compliance with standards and protocols. It can control diverse manufacturing processes or monitor a range of facilities such as automotive or power plants. 

PROFIBUS is evolving in line with advancements in Industry 4.0 technology, embracing software, hardware and communication technologies. These developments are likely to enhance future PROFIBUS performance and capabilities, including the greater adoption of wireless variants and the introduction of the open standard Profinet. PROFIBUS is anticipating the introduction of enhanced monitoring and diagnostics, with more stringent cybersecurity measures to offer greater protection for industrial communication networks.