Communication modules
Highly efficient integration – for all requirements
From production to logistics, communication modules allow you to connect our SIMATIC Ident systems to SIMATIC controllers, PC-based systems or to controllers from third-party suppliers.
Regardless of what RFID or code-reading system you use, and whether you use a SIMATIC controller, a PC, or a controller from another manufacturer: As part of Totally Integrated Automation (TIA), these communication modules can be efficiently integrated into the SIMATIC world as RFID interfaces. Standard function blocks that are also integrated in TIA Portal ensure that existing Ident applications are operational immediately, even if you change readers.
- Access to configuration, commissioning, and diagnostic tools via TIA Portal and Web-based management, for flexible visualization and reduced engineering effort
- Modular system integration for PROFINET using standard function blocks
- Programming is compatible with predecessor communication modules
- Configuration via RFID technology object in TIA Portal
- Status requests during ongoing operation – including requests for logbook data – reduces downtime
- Fast and powerful fault analysis of sporadic events without modifying the PLC program
- Execution of reader functions without an application
- Access from any PC with a browser with no software installation or updates
- Models designed for connecting one, two, or four readers for custom configuration
- With two connections each for Ethernet and power supply, the new devices support star, line, and ring topologies
- Standardized L-coded M12 connectors for the power supply allow a high power transmission of current of up to 16 amperes in line topologies
- Option to connect a variety of IO-Link hubs or a standard sensor or actuator based on the integrated IO-Link master
- Communication via the OPC UA AutoID Companion Specification V1.0 data model
- Vendor-independent communication within the automation
- Standardized connection to cloud applications like MindSphere, the cloud-based, open IoT operating system
- Connection via an Industrial IoT gateway: for example, RUGGEDCOM RX1400 with CloudConnect
- Cloud communication in parallel with controller operation
- Paves the way for connecting HF RFID systems like SIMATIC RF200 and RF300 to the cloud – which allows operational resources like containers and pallets that previously couldn’t be mapped digitally to now be identified and tracked
Communication modules at a glance
Versions with different interfaces are available for optimally integrating the SIMATIC Ident systems in Totally Integrated Automation (TIA). The communication modules are ideal for use in all areas of automation. Their especially compact design and high degree of protection permits the devices to be used in harsh industrial environments and wherever space is restricted.
- SIMATIC RF18xC/CI for PROFINET/OPC UA
- ASM 456, SIMATIC RF160C for PROFIBUS DP
- SIMATIC RF170C for distributed SIMATIC ET 200pro
- SIMATIC RF120C for SIMATIC S7-1200
- ASM 475 for SIMATIC S7-300 and ET 200M
Areas of application
- Machine building and systems engineering, automation systems, conveyor technology
- Ancillary assembly lines in the automotive industry/suppliers
- Small assembly lines
- Production machines
System benefits
- A variety of connector concepts (M12, RJ45, push-pull, or ECOFAST) for flexible application connection
- Comprehensive diagnostic functions for fast fault detection
- Modular system integration with standard function blocks
- Simple connection, thanks to support of Ident profile (PNO)
- Access to configuration, commissioning, and diagnostic tools via TIA Portal using an “Ident” technology object
- Seamless integration from the field level to the cloud-based, open IoT operating system MindSphere
