An Introduction to

PROFIBUS

Comprehensive Protocol Overview

PROFIBUS is not one communication system, but a variety of protocols built on the same field-bus technology bundle. Users can combine varieties of PROFIBUS protocols with their own software and other requirements, resulting in a unique application profile. With many profiles available, PROFIBUS can suit specific needs. One thing remains the same, though: through thorough testing, PROFIBUS devices meet a high standard of quality befitting a high-quality network.

PROFIBUS History

PROFIBUS was born out of a combined push by the German government, German companies, and other industry leaders in the late 1980s. Their effort created an automation solution that is not only still viable today but has led to further solutions. The proud heritage of PROFIBUS allows for many European customers to turn to automation specific to their needs.

PROFIBUS resources

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PROFIBUS Blogs

PROFIBUS Links

PROFIBUS Technology

PROFIBUS Whitepapers
This library contains a myriad of documents pertaining to a wide range of topics. Some are technical in nature and go into depth on a particular feature. Others provide side-by-side comparisons of competing technologies or present cases studies.

Organizations/Memberships

RTA is a proud member of PI. For more information, visit their site: profibus.com

Origin

In 1987, 21 companies and institutions in Germany joined forces to create a new protocol. Their goal was to create a bit-serial Fieldbus system. For the system to be viable, they needed to standardize the field device interface. The group, which had taken the name Central Association for the Electrical Industry (ZVEI), completed its goal with the creation of PROFIBUS FMS (Fieldbus Message Specification).

This new protocol satisfied standardization of industrial automation through a protocol capable of sending complex communications. The ZVEI was not finished, though. In 1993, the group introduced a new standard, PROFIBUS DP (Decentralized Periphery). This new version featured more simplicity, including easier configuration and faster messaging.

The ZVEI’s work to create PROFIBUS was vital and they continue serving the electronics industry in Germany.

Organizations

PROFIBUS standards are maintained and advanced via a pair of important organizations. In 1989, PROFIBUS manufacturers and users created the PROFIBUS User Organization (PNO). This group was, and still is, a non-commercial venture. Members work to advance PROFIBUS through support and education, including publishing documents that help users satisfy their needs using existing technology.

A larger group was formed in 1995 and named PROFIBUS International, or PI. As the largest Fieldbus user association in the world, PI undertakes many tasks vital to the progression of PROFIBUS. Like the PNO, PI educates users on PROFIBUS and helps advance its placement throughout the world. The organization goes further, though, by helping with quality assurance, setting standards, and developing new PROFIBUS technologies.

Overview

PROFIBUS is a smart, Fieldbus technology. Devices on the system connect to a central line. Once connected, these devices can communicate information in an efficient manner, but can go beyond automation messages. PROFIBUS devices can also participate in self-diagnosis and connection diagnosis. At the most basic level, PROFIBUS benefits from superior design of its OSI layers and basic topology.

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OSI Model

PROFIBUS networks make use of three separate layers of the OSI Model. First, PROFIBUS describes the application layer. There are multiple versions of PROFIBUS that handle different types of messaging at the application layer. Some of the types of messaging PROFIBUS supports include cyclic and acyclic data exchange, diagnosis, alarm-handling, and isochronous messaging.

PROFIBUS does not define layers three through six. It does, however, define the data link and physical layers, layers one and two. The data link layer is completed through a Fieldbus Data Link (FDL). The FDL system combines two common schemes: master/slave methodology and token passing. In a master/slave network, masters, usually controllers, send requests to slaves, usually sensors and actuators. The slaves respond accordingly. PROFIBUS also includes token passing, a system in which a token signal is passed between nodes. Only the node with the token can communicate. The token passing concept is like the speaking conch: only the person with the conch is allowed to talk.

Finally, PROFIBUS defines a physical layer, though it leaves room for flexibility. PROFIBUS systems can have three types of media. The first is a standard twisted-pair wiring system, in this case RS-485. Two more advanced systems are also available. PROFIBUS systems can now operate using fiber-optic transmission in cases where that is more appropriate. A safety-enhanced system called Manchester Bus Power (MBP) is also available in situations where the chemical environment is prone to explosion.

Topology

PROFIBUS uses the bus topology. In this topology, a central line, or bus, is wired throughout the system. Devices are attached to this central bus. One bus eliminates the need for a full-length line going from the central controller to each individual device.

In the past, each PROFIBUS device had to connect directly to the central bus. Technological advancements, however, have made it possible for a new two-wire system. In this topology, the PROFIBUS central bus can connect to a PROFINET Ethernet system. This allows multiple PROFIBUS busses to connect to each other.

Types of PROFIBUS

PROFIBUS has advanced through a handful of revisions. In some cases, advances have led to a new type of PROFIBUS. In other cases, new revisions mean different versions of the same type of PROFIBUS. In any case, the variety of PROFIBUS solutions mean the system can be adapted to fit the varying needs of different industries.

The initial version was called PROFIBUS FMS (Fieldbus Message Specification). It was designed to communicate between programmable controllers and personal computers, sending complex information between them. Unfortunately, being the initial effort of PROFIBUS designers, the FMS technology was not as flexible as needed. This protocol was not appropriate for less complex messages or communication on a wider, more complicated network. New types of PROFIBUS would satisfy those needs. PROFIBUS FMS is still in use today, though most users find newer solutions to be more appropriate.

The second version, PROFIBUS DP (Decentralized Periphery) is more universal and much simpler and faster, making it the overwhelming majority of PROFIBUS application profiles in use today. Application profiles allow users to combine their requirements for a specific solution, and they will be discussed in more detail below.

PROFIBUS DP has, itself, three separate versions. Each version, from DP-V0 to DP-V1 and DP-V2, provides newer, more complicated features.

PROFIBUS PA was designed for Process Automation. PROFIBUS PA is a type of PROFIBUS DP application profile that standardizes the process of transmitting measured data. One very important unique characteristic of PROFIBUS PA is its ability to endure hazardous environments.

In most environments, PROFIBUS PA operates over RS485 twisted pair media. This media, along with the PA application profile supports power over the bus. In explosive environments, though, that power can lead to sparks that induce explosions. To handle this, PROFIBUS PA can be used with MBP technology.

MBP Technology

The MBP media was designed specifically to be used in PROFIBUS PA. It permits transmission of both data and power. The technology steps the power down, though, which reduces, or nearly eliminates, the possibility of explosion. Buses using MBP can reach 1,900 meters and can support branches.

Application Profiles

PROFIBUS can be tailored to specific needs using application profiles. There are many profiles that combine standards for transmission media, communication protocol (FMS, DP-V0, etc) and unique protocols. Each application profile is tailored to a specific use, and new profiles appear regularly. To list them all would be cumbersome, however, two of the more widespread applicatication profiles are PROFIsafe and PROFIdrive.

PROFIsafe

PROFIsafe uses additional software to create a high-integrity network. This network is useful in situations where high safety is a requirement. For suppliers and manufacturers to be certified in PROFIsafe, they must maintain high standards in quality.

PROFIdrive

PROFIdrive was created for motion control applications. Software added to the PROFIBUS DP specification allows the network to achieve precise control of servo motors and other equipment. Thus PROFIdrive can achieve synchronization across the network.

Quality Assurance

The PNO has created a conformance testing program to ensure devices meet its high standards. In this program, a device is sent to an independent laboratory for testing. The device then undergoes a comprehensive series of tests, including hardware, conformity, and function tests and the test results are documented.

When a device passes all tests, its manufacturer can apply for a conformance certificate, valid for three years and can be renewed with further testing. See the sample below.

AttributeRating
PRIMARY VENDORSiemens
PRIMARY ADVANTAGESVery Fast and Simple Integration to Siemens PLCs | Acceptance in Europe
PRIMARY DISADVANTAGESExpensive ASIC Required, No Power over the Bus, Expensive Connector
NETWORK SPEED12 Meg
DUPLICATE ADDRESS DETECTIONNone
MAXIMUM FRAME SIZE244 Bytes
CONNECTORSEnhanced DB-9 for Profibus Speed
CONNECTORSNone – Half Duplex Protocol
BANDWIDTH UTILIZATIONMedium to Low | Frame Size larger than most applications require
MAXIMUM NUMBER NODES126 with 32 Maximum per segment
MESSAGING TYPESTwo Types (Messaging and I/O)
PRIMARY COMMUNICATION METHODSHalf Duplex Master Slave
MAX I/O PER PACKET244 Bytes
LARGE MESSAGE FRAGMENTATIONNo
TYPICAL CYCLE TIMES10 mec
SPONSORING ORGANIZATIONProfibus User Organization (PNO)
CONNECTOR COSTExpensive Drivers and Interface for 12Meg Speed
TYPICAL FLASH REQUIREDASIC Plus 5K in Processor
TYPICAL RAM REQUIRED5K | Varies with I/O Supported