SST 5136-PFB-VME

Description

Product Description

The SST 5136-PFB-VME is a specialized communication interface module from SBS Technologies (later acquired by GE and now part of Abaco Systems). This module is a Profibus DP Master Interface designed for integration into VMEbus systems. It enables a VME-based single board computer or controller to function as the master on a Profibus DP network, allowing it to communicate with and manage a wide array of Profibus DP slave devices such as remote I/O stations, drives, and instruments. Integrating the SST 5136-PFB-VME card into a VME chassis provides a robust, industrial-grade pathway for integrating VME control systems with the widely adopted Profibus fieldbus.

Product Parameters and Specifications

• Product Type: Profibus DP Master Interface Card for VMEbus.
• Form Factor: 6U VME (Single Slot).
• Bus Interface: VMEbus (VME64 or VME32 compliant).
• Fieldbus Protocol: Profibus DP (Decentralized Peripherals) Master, compliant with EN 50170.
• Data Transfer Rate: Configurable up to 12 Mbps.
• Profibus Interface: Typically one or two isolated RS-485 ports via a front panel Sub-D connector.
• Master Class: Class 1 Master (for cyclic data exchange) and often supports Class 2 functionality for parameterization and diagnostics.
• Configuration: Configured via configuration files and software tools on the host VME CPU. Requires the appropriate GSD (Device Description Data) files for each slave device on the Profibus network.
• Driver Support: Includes drivers for real-time operating systems (RTOS) such as VxWorks, QNX, and Linux.

Advantages and Features

1. Bridges VME Systems to Profibus Networks: The primary function of the SST 5136-PFB-VME is to connect powerful, rugged VME-based controllers to the ubiquitous Profibus DP fieldbus. This allows the VME system to manage distributed I/O and intelligent devices across a plant floor.
2. High-Performance Deterministic Communication: As a Profibus DP master, it provides deterministic, cyclic data exchange with slave devices. This ensures predictable update times for control loops, which is critical for real-time automation applications.
3. Rugged Industrial Design: Built to the mechanical and electrical standards of the VME platform, the module is designed for reliable operation in environments with high vibration, wide temperature ranges, and significant electromagnetic interference.
4. Flexibility in System Architecture: Enables a centralized VME controller to manage a large, distributed network of Profibus slaves. This is ideal for complex machinery or test systems where high computational power is needed centrally, but I/O is distributed.
5. Proven Software Support: Backed by mature drivers for major real-time operating systems, facilitating integration into existing VME software environments and reducing development time.

Application Cases in Various Fields

• Industrial Automation (Complex Machinery): Used in a VME-based controller for a large printing press, paper machine, or semiconductor manufacturing tool to manage hundreds of remote I/O points and drives over Profibus.
• Test and Measurement Systems: In an automated test stand (ATE) for aerospace components, the VME system uses the 5136-PFB-VME to communicate with Profibus-based sensor clusters and actuator controllers.
• Motion Control Systems: Allows a high-performance VME motion controller to interface with Profibus-driven servo drives and motor starters in a coordinated multi-axis system.
• Energy Sector (Turbine Control): Could be used in legacy or specialized turbine control systems where a VME platform is the main computer, needing to interface with Profibus-based auxiliary and protection systems.

Comparison with Competing Products

• vs. Profibus Cards for PC/PCI: PCI-based Profibus cards are for standard industrial PCs. The SST 5136-PFB-VME is specifically for the more rugged, deterministic, and often higher-reliability VME platform used in more demanding applications.
• vs. Using an External Gateway/Proxy: Using an external device (e.g., a Profibus-to-Ethernet gateway) adds complexity, latency, and a potential point of failure. The integrated 5136-PFB-VME card provides a direct, high-performance connection managed by the central VME CPU.
• vs. Other VME Communication Cards (Ethernet, Serial): While Ethernet is universal, Profibus remains a dominant industrial fieldbus. This card provides a dedicated, deterministic fieldbus master capability that standard Ethernet cards do not offer for the Profibus protocol.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. Complete VME System Requirement: This is not a standalone unit. It requires a VME chassis, a compatible VME CPU board running a supported RTOS, and the correct VME system controller configuration.
2. RTOS and Driver Compatibility is Critical: Before selection, verify that drivers for the 5136-PFB-VME are available and certified for the specific version of your Real-Time Operating System (VxWorks, QNX, etc.).
3. Profibus Network Design Expertise: Designing and configuring a Profibus DP network—including correct cabling, termination, station addressing, and baud rate selection—requires specific fieldbus knowledge. The GSD files for all slaves must be integrated into the master’s configuration.
4. Obsolescence Considerations: SBS/GE/Abaco communication cards are legacy products. Ensure availability of spares, drivers, and technical documentation for the lifecycle of your project. Consider long-term support plans.
5. Configuration and Testing: Proper configuration of the master’s process image (mapping slave I/O to CPU memory) is essential. The network should be thoroughly tested with all slaves before system integration.

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5136-PFB-VME