Welcome to the second part of our series on Rockwell ControlLogix PLC and Siemens VFD Communication. In this article, we will discuss the configuration of the HMS Anybus PROFIBUS Master gateway to communicate with the Siemens Robicon VFD.
Introduction
Automation often requires communication between systems from different manufacturers. In this video series, we will be communicating from a Rockwell Automation ControlLogix 5000 PLC using ControlNet network media with CIP protocol to a Siemens Robicon VFD using Profibus protocol through a gateway that converts ControlNet CIP protocol to Siemens Profibus protocol.
Configuring the HMS Anybus PROFIBUS Master Gateway
To configure the HMS Anybus PROFIBUS Master gateway, we will be using the HMS NetTool software. The gateway acts as the PROFIBUS Master controlling the Siemens Robicon VFD. The PROFIBUS master is responsible for controlling the entire communication dialog with the slaves on the network. It writes and reads data from each slave one at a time, and each slave is required to respond to the request within a predetermined timeframe.
The configuration of the PROFIBUS Master in the gateway is done using the HMS NetTool software. The HMS PROFIBUS configuration is set to use 30 bytes of input for real I/O data and status data for the ControlLogix PLC, and 6 bytes of output to be controlled by the ControlLogix PLC.
To start the configuration process, connect a laptop to the COM port on the gateway using a null modem cable. Open the Anybus NetTool for PROFIBUS software by double-clicking on its Desktop icon. From the NetTool File Menu, select New Project.
Image Integration
HMS Anybus Gateway
Next, the GSD file or “General Station Description,” which is provided by the device manufacturer, needs to be selected. The GSD files contain a description of the PROFIBUS master or slave device and allow the configuration tool to automatically get the device characteristics.
Once the GSD file is selected, the bus configuration user interface window will display the available bus configurations. The Anybus-M DPV1 master GSD icon should be selected and dragged into the configuration.
Image Integration
Anybus-M Master Icon
By double-clicking on the Master icon and selecting the “bus parameter” tab, the Master bus properties can be viewed. These properties are pre-configured but can be changed by the user. After verifying the window, click “OK”.
Next, download the Siemens SINAMICS S120/S150 GSD file from the Siemens website. Install the GSD file by browsing to its location and double-clicking on it. Set the slave address to 3 in the slave device’s property window under the “Parameter assignment” tab.
Image Integration
Siemens SINAMICS S120/S150 GSD file
With the PROFIBUS Master and Slave now configured, we can go online with the Master to examine real-time data from the Siemens VFD. Extend the SINAMICS S120/S150 in the GSD file window and add “SIEMENS TELEGRAM 392” to slot 1.
Image Integration
Siemens VFD Configuration
To download the NetTool configuration file to the HMS Master gateway, go to the NetTool menu and select “Online”. Choose “Download Configuration” and select the “Serial” tab in the opening window. Create a new path by selecting “COM-Port Transport Provider” and entering the serial COM-port mentioned in the previous video.
After the download is complete, return to the NetTool menu, select “Online”, and then choose “Monitor/Modify” to view real-time data from the Siemens VFD.
Image Integration
Real-time Data Monitoring
Conclusion
In conclusion, the configuration of the HMS PROFIBUS Master gateway is vital for communication between the ControlLogix PLC and the Siemens Robicon VFD. Through the HMS gateway, control data and status information are exchanged, enabling the ControlLogix PLC to control the pump connected to the Siemens VFD.
Stay tuned for part 3, where we will discuss how to configure the Siemens Robicon PROFIBUS slave VFD. If you would like additional training on a similar subject, please let us know in the comment section below.
Don’t forget to like this article, and for more automation control topics, visit Techal.
