SST-PB3-CLX

Description

Product Description

The SST-PB3-CLX is a specialized communication interface module manufactured by SST (formerly Woodhead, now part of Phoenix Contact) designed to seamlessly integrate third-party devices into a Rockwell Automation ControlLogix (CLX) platform. This module functions as a Profibus-DP (Decentralized Periphery) master scanner, allowing a ControlLogix PLC to communicate with and control a network of Profibus DP slaves such as remote I/O, variable frequency drives, motor starters, and valve terminals. The SST-PB3-CLX effectively bridges the gap between the Rockwell native ControlNet or EtherNet/IP environment and the widely adopted Profibus standard. For comprehensive technical data, user manuals, and configuration files (EDS, AOP), the essential resource is the official Phoenix Contact product page for the SST-PB3-CLX. By deploying the SST-PB3-CLX, engineers can preserve investments in existing Profibus field assets while modernizing or standardizing on a ControlLogix controller, making it a strategic tool for system integration and migration projects.

Product Parameters

• Manufacturer / Brand: SST (a Phoenix Contact brand).
• Model: SST-PB3-CLX.
• Function: Profibus-DP Master Scanner for ControlLogix.
• Host Backplane: Compatible with Rockwell Automation ControlLogix 1756 chassis.
• Profibus Interface: RS-485 port compliant with Profibus DP standard EN 50170.
• Baud Rate: Supports configurable Profibus baud rates from 9.6 kbps up to 12 Mbps.
• I/O Capacity: Capable of handling a configurable amount of input and output data (up to 1440 bytes total, split between in and out) to map Profibus slave data into the ControlLogix controller’s tags.
• Configuration: Requires SST’s configuration software (e.g., SST Profibus Configuration Tool) to set up the Profibus network and slave devices. The resulting configuration is downloaded to the module.
• Diagnostic LEDs: Provides status indicators for module health, backplane communication, and Profibus network activity/faults.
• Power: Powered directly from the ControlLogix 1756 backplane.

Advantages and Features

• Seamless ControlLogix Integration: Appears as a standard I/O module in the Rockwell Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000 I/O configuration tree. Data from Profibus slaves is mapped directly into controller tags for easy programming.
• Cost-Effective Migration: Enables the integration of legacy Profibus devices into new ControlLogix systems without replacing expensive field equipment.
• High Performance: Supports high-speed Profibus communication up to 12 Mbps, suitable for demanding I/O and drive control applications.
• Proven Reliability: Built with industrial-grade components for reliable operation in demanding environments, backed by SST’s long history in communication interfaces.
• Comprehensive Diagnostics: Offers detailed diagnostic capabilities both through its LEDs and by reporting status and network health data into the ControlLogix controller for central monitoring.

Application Cases in Industry

• Automotive Manufacturing: Integrates Profibus-based welding controllers, robotic tooling changers, or old Siemens PLCs as remote I/O into a new or existing Allen-Bradley ControlLogix-based body shop line.
• Food & Beverage: Connects a ControlLogix PLC to Profibus-based variable frequency drives (VFDs) from Siemens or SEW on conveyor systems and mixer motors, allowing for centralized control and monitoring.
• Water/Wastewater: Allows a modern ControlLogix SCADA controller to communicate with legacy Profibus remote I/O panels and flow meters distributed across a treatment plant.
• Pharmaceutical Machinery: Integrates specialized Profibus-enabled sensors (e.g., high-precision scales, vision systems) from European manufacturers into a North American machine controlled by a Rockwell platform.

Comparison with Competing Products

The primary competitor is the native Rockwell Automation 1756-DHRIO/DH+ with a Profibus daughter card, but this solution is older and more complex. Other competitors are gateway solutions from ProSoft Technology (e.g., PLX31-PBM) or HMS Networks (Anybus X-gateway). The SST-PB3-CLX differentiates itself through its deep, card-level integration into the ControlLogix chassis, making it operate like a native I/O module. Compared to a stand-alone Ethernet-based gateway, the SST-PB3-CLX offers lower latency, deterministic performance through the backplane, and simpler data mapping directly into the controller’s memory without intermediate messaging instructions.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

• Selection Suggestions:
  1. Choose the SST-PB3-CLX when you need to connect Profibus DP slave devices directly to a ControlLogix system and require the performance and integration level of a chassis-mounted module.
  2. Carefully calculate the total I/O data size (bytes of input and output data) required by all Profibus slaves on the intended network to ensure it does not exceed the module’s capacity.
  3. Verify compatibility with your specific ControlLogix chassis and controller firmware version.
• Precautions:
  1. Software Requirements: Configuration requires two software packages: Rockwell’s Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000 and SST’s dedicated Profibus configuration tool. Ensure you have access to both.
  2. Configuration Complexity: Setting up the Profibus network and mapping I/O data correctly requires a good understanding of both Profibus and ControlLogix systems. Incorrect configuration is a common source of failure.
  3. Network Termination: The Profibus network must be properly terminated at both ends of the cable with active terminators to ensure reliable communication, especially at higher baud rates.
  4. GSD Files: You will need the exact device-specific GSD (Geräte Stamm Datei) files for every Profibus slave device on the network to properly configure them in the SST software.
  5. Firmware Updates: Check for the latest firmware for the SST-PB3-CLX module to ensure compatibility and access to the latest features and bug fixes. Source from authorized distributors.

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