Connect existing PLCs with MPI/PROFIBUS to Ethernet easily and quickly. Install NETLink, set it up via Web server and "it's done".

It can be seen in many production companies: digitalization is stagnating in existing systems that are ten years or older. However, with smart components from Helmholz they can be integrated within Ethernet networks easily, safely and without changes to the control program.

With the NETLink® Gateways, existing PLC systems can be easily integrated within the Ethernet infrastructure. On the PLC side (MPI / PPI / PROFIBUS) the full transmission speed for PROFIBUS can be used.

The NETLink® PRO Compact is therefore particularly suitable for adaptation in existing factories and production lines. Thanks to the direct connection to the PLC interface via PROFIBUS / MPI, no adjustments are required in the control cabinet. So no extra space is required for this. (When installing a CP card, the program and the control box would have to be adjusted!)

NETLink® modules receive the operating voltage from the active PROFIBUS device. For passive nodes in the network, the Ethernet gateway can be supplied externally with 24 V.

Thanks to the integrated RJ45 connection, it is possible to connect standard network cables with a length of up to 100 meters on the TCP/IP side without additional components.

The configuration of the Ethernet gateway is easily done via the web interface. The supplied driver is automatically integrated into the S7 engineering tools, which are of course supported.

Conclusion

Intelligent network components and solutions from Helmholz enable simple and safe integration of existing machines and “old” PLCs into digital networks and Industry 4.0 environments.