Snapped on and ready for use

Dipl.-Ing. Heinz Czichy, Dipl.-Ing. Ralf Damm

Use of the distributed I/O system, ET200S, brings with it a lot of advantages. The amount of wiring necessary to the Simatic S7-300 has been reduced. Smaller switchgear cabinets can even be used with a greater volume of signals, and the ET200S offers extensive diagnostics possibilities. All necessary functions, such as distributed intelligence, data communication, process inputs/outputs, motor starter outputs, safety-oriented coupling of safety switches and safety-oriented shutdown of loads, as well as distribution of the mains energy and auxiliary energy over an energy bus, are integrated in the Simatic ET200S I/O system. It has a uniform design and allows easy and fast connection of all components completely without tools. In addition to the controls, visualisation is also integrated via a bus system. In the CP343-1 of the Simatic S7-300, for example, the signals are transmitted via Industrial Ethernet to the visualisation components.

First of all the Profibus-DP interface module is snapped onto the standard DIN rail and then further I/O modules are added by snapping them onto the rail and linking them to their left-hand partner. Electrical connection of the modules involves absolutely no control wiring. The self-constructing energy bus takes over the task of supplying the ET 200S modules with auxiliary and mains energy and allows the transfer of data and safety functions. After installation, the supply cables and process lines are connected directly to the modules. Energy is only fed to the first load. It provides the internal energy bus with energy and in this way supplies the next loads. The complex cabling previously needed for distributing the mains energy is now no longer necessary. The immediate consequences are 80% less wiring and about 50% less space needed in the switchgear cabinet.

The characteristic design feature of the ET200S system is its smart wire management. The mechanical components are separate from the electronic components, including load feeders, electronic and power modules. This reliable technology leads to a reduction in costs and maximum availability. The devices can be completely wired up even before they are equipped with load feeders and electronic modules. The wiring can be tested live, because electronic components that may be endangered have not yet been mounted. The self-constructing energy bus reduces the time needed for testing and the number of possible errors. If a load feeder or electronic module fails, the defective components can be replaced quickly by simply unlatching them, and pulling them off. Smart wire management allows the additional mechanical methods of quick rack-and-panel application to be dispensed with. Status and error LEDs on the modules inform the user of the current operating state. In addition, automatic plain text messages can be recalled at any point via Profibus.

Siemens

Fax: ++49/9131/72 72 99

Further information cpp-294