protocol converters

[ianbuckley]

I have a serial device with a DF1 driver that we use quite frequently in our control systems and I am trying to figure out if I can connect it to a Siemens operator interface via Profibus DP or MPI. Along the same lines, I am looking for a device that can connect a DF1 serial device (19200 baud) to as many different types of devices as possible. I have used Datalink modules to connect DF1 to DH+ for years and years. DigiOne has the IAP that looks good for connecting to Ethernet/IP. I am looking to see what possibilities are out there to connect to other protocols/busses. I seem to remember Red Lion had a web server unit with a bunch of serial ports that could act as a protocol bridge, but I never saw the complete list of protocols that it could handle. I am trying to avoid endless Google searches every time a customer asks to connect this device to something different. Thanks for any input you can provide. Ian

[JesperMP]

Hi Ian. Siemens panels support DF1 natively, so that is the way easiest route. Notice that the latest generation panels (types OP/TPx77) only have RS422/RS485. RS232 has been dropped, so you may need an RS232/RS485 converter if the device only has RS232. I wonder, is the serial device initiating the DF1 communication, as if it was an OP ? Or does it use messaging ? Or does it respond to polling requests as if it was a PLC ? Only in the last case can you connect a Siemens panel directly.

[ianbuckley]

Actually it is a specialty PLC that we have programmed to respond to DF1 MSG Read and Write commands, as either a PLC5 or a SLC500. We set up a data table and map the requested addresses to the native addresses inside the PLC. So in short, the serial device is an RS232 DF1 slave.

[Crossbow]

Prolinx makes communication gateways for a variety of protocols. HMS Networks makes the Anybus communication modules, which can also be used for this. Applicom (part of Woodhead) makes a box. There are numerous vendors if you do web searches. Personally I have used Prolinx for serial to ethernet and serial to serial conversions before.

[danyost]

For the most up to date protocol list you will want to look in the software, which is a free download. Alternatively, for a some what up to date list, you can go here: http://www.redlion.net/Support/Downloads/DeviceDrivers.html and select the manufacturer you want to connect to from the drop down. Most of our drivers are masters, including the MPI. I doubt you will be able to connect to the HMI using that method. We do offer a Profibus card and a DP Slave driver, so the HMI could access the DF1 data that way, assuming that the HMI can be a Profibus master. Regards, Dan

[ianbuckley]

Thanks for all the suggestions guys. Lots of good leads. I love this site!