The Siemens Industry Automation Division has expanded its Simocode pro motor management system to include a basic unit with a Profinet interface. Linking up Simocode pro via Ethernet to higher-level automation systems allows new functions to be provided for motor diagnostics, control and protection. The additional integration of Profienergy also improves energy management. The Siemens Industry Automation Division has expanded its modular Simocode pro motor management system to include a Simocode pro V Profinet basic unit with two RJ45 interfaces. This means that the system can be connected via Profinet to higher-level controllers such as Simatic S7 or to control systems such as Simatic PCS 7. Profinet can be used to provide media redundancy functions which, for example, ensure that a connection is maintained within a network with ring topology even if one communication channel fails. This helps to increase the availability and, consequently, the productivity of the entire plant.

With its Profinet compatibility, the new basic unit also offers more far-reaching diagnostic and control functions in addition to simple communication between higher-level plant control and drive systems. Simocode pro, for example, includes integrated web diagnostics as well as a server for OPC UA, the multi-vendor communication standard in automation. With the aid of an Internet browser, all diagnostic and service data relating to the motor feeders – for example status information, measured values as well as service data and statistics – can be called up from anywhere via a network connection and the web server. This means a lot more flexibility for the user. The integrated OPC UA server allows this data to be called up from the higher-level Scada system via HMI panels at field level. Users can also have their diagnostic data shown in a customized display adapted to their application. A further advantage of the OPC UA server is that control signals can be transmitted to the control system via a secure link. As a result, the user can monitor and control the drives more effectively and provide them with better protection.

Profienergy has also been integrated into the new basic unit for Simocode pro with the Profinet interface. The motors are controlled centrally via Profinet and can, for example, be shut down during breaks. The measured values and status information can also be called up via the Profienergy protocol, thus enabling efficient energy and load management. This considerably reduces the plant's energy requirements and costs.