Profibus network

The Profibus network is a fieldbus network available in three variants: Profibus-FMS (Fieldbus Message Specification), Profibus-DP (Decentralized Peripheral) and Profibus-PA (Process Automation), designed to cover the various industrial communication needs in automation, from the sensor-actuator level through to process control and supervision.

This network was first standardized in Germany (DIN 19245), then at European level (EN 50170) in 1996, and finally recognized and listed among the networks of the international standard IEC 61158. Today, it occupies an important place in the global field network market.

This article describes the Profibus communication stack structure, and in particular the data link layer and communication services, telegram structure and physical layer characteristics. The Profibus-DP and Profibus-PA communication protocols are described in particular detail, given their current widespread use in industrial applications.

Finally, an overview of developments in Profibus solutions for TCP-IP-based network interconnection via ProfiNet is given, as well as the ProfiSafe profile, which guarantees a high level of transmission reliability for the network support of automation safety equipment.

This article is based on the experience of the authors, as well as on current Profibus standards, which it does not replace.