Automation hardware module implements Ethernet-APL field devices.
Ethernet Advanced Physical Layer (Ethernet-APL) is the new standard for end-to-end digital communication in industrial automation and is also suitable for use in hazardous areas. Softing Industrial has introduced a family of Ethernet-APL-capable devices in order for device manufacturers to prepare for growing demand from end-users for this data transmission technology.
The commModule APL is a ready-to-use and pre-certified hardware for the implementation of Ethernet-APL field devices. It supports manufacturers as they develop and certify new Ethernet-APL-capable devices within a short time-to-market.
The hardware module provides connectivity to Ethernet-APL as well as an application software that can be configured to implement the required behaviour of the respective field device. commModule-APL is delivered with a pre-installed ProfiNet stack. It provides a configurable application data model and commands mapping to migrate existing HART and Modbus devices to Ethernet-APL. This does not require writing a single line of code, the company reassured users. The assignment to HART or Modbus commands is done with the accompanying commScripter tool. commModule APL has passed EMC and environmental testing, as well as conformance testing for the Ethernet-APL Physical Layer and for the ProfiNet protocol with PA Profile 4.02. It is also pre-certified in accordance with ATEX and IECEx to reduce the effort, risk and time required to develop device hardware.
Softing will be at the Hannover Messe (May 30 to June 02, 22) Hall 9-D68.
Softing Industrial specialises in products that connect automation components to feed data from the shop floor to the cloud for control and analytics. The company’s products enable the monitoring and diagnosis of communication networks and ensure a reliable data flow to optimise production processes.
