Plant Extension

APL extension / switches supporting PROFINET over APL; field devices with PROFINET over APL interface

Ethernet-APL is the enabler for Ethernet right into the field in process automation, and PROFINET provides the appropriate, powerful real-time protocol. Shortly after the Ethernet-APL specification was adopted, the first field devices and field switches with PROFINET support were presented and many other manufacturers have announced products. The new PA demo wall impressively demonstrates the growing support of PROFINET over APL and underlines the application possibilities for new systems and system expansions.