What are the different Profibus Cable and Profibus Connectors variants?
Two variations of Profibus cable and Profibus connectors are available on the market today: the most commonly used Profibus DP, and the lesser used Profibus PA variations.
- Profibus DP (Decentralized Peripherals)
This variation Profibus cable and Profibus connectors are used to operate sensors and actuators with the help of a centralized controller in production technology. The many standard diagnostic options, in particular, are focused on here. Other areas of use include the connection of "distributed intelligence", i.e. the networking of multiple controllers to one another (similar to Profibus FMS). Data rates up to12 Mbit/s on twisted pair cables and/or fiber optics are possible.
- Profibus PA (Process Automation)
This Profibus cable and Profibus connectors variant is used to monitor measuring equipment via a process control system in process engineering. It is ideal for explosion-hazardous areas. Here, a weak current flows through bus lines in an intrinsically safe circuit so that explosive sparks are not created, even if a malfunction occurs. The disadvantage of this variation Profibus cable and Profibus connectors are the slower data transmission rate of 31.25 kbit/s.
A Profibus cable and Profibus connectors are the only fieldbus cable and connectors that can be used in equal measure in production automation and process automation and has since become a leader in the global market. It is estimated that more than 20 million Profibus cable and Profibus connectors are in use worldwide (as of 2007).
Neither Profibus DP nor Profibus PA should be confused with ProfiNet, which is a totally different Ethernet based communications standard used for process measurement and control over Cat 5 (or similar) twisted pair cables, as most frequently seen for linking office computers.
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Should there be distance between a Profibus Cable/Profibus Connectors and Power Cables?
There should always be distance between Profibus cable/Profibus connectors and any other power cables. Even a Profibus cable and Profibus connectors can get disturbed by interference caused by parallel high voltage power lines. One should always try to have at least 10 cm air space between the Profibus cable/Profibus connectors and power cables (depending on the level of the voltage). Some people mix Profibus cables/Profibus connectors and power cables in one cable tray and that often leads to unreliable behaviour. However, Profibus cables/Profibus connectors and power cables that cross each other will not cause problems. Creating distance is not the only requirement; correct shielding is also a must.