
RapID™ Platform - PROFINET Network Interface
2-Port, Class B Connectivity Solution
The RapI D P lat f orm Ne t w ork Int e rface is a p re -tested module that manages the
industrial prot oc ol and netw ork traffic with a single host proc es s or int erf a c e
The interface contains everything needed including the
communications controller, protocol stacks, Flash, RAM, and PHYs. All
PROFINET capabilities are encapsulated on this small form factor device,
and can be integrated into any type of automation equipment from
complex control to a simple sensor or actuator. For applications where
space is limited, the module’s design can be embedded directly into the
field device. The RapID Platform Network Interface connects to a “Host”
processor via a UART or 16-bit Parallel Interface. At the software layer the
Host connects to a “Unified Interface" so other protocols can be used
without changing the host software. PROFINET communication is Class B
certified and passes Net Load Class III. This means your field device
incorporating a RapID Platform Network Interface will operate problem-free with any PROFINET controller and
will never disconnect from the network.
Eas y Hardwa re and Software Inte gration
The Network Interface can be integrated into a design as either a module or an embedded design. As a
module, the Network Interface plugs into a board using standard 2.54 mm pitch through-hole pins. When
designing-in the module, hardware integration is as easy as connecting Power/Ground/Reset and interfacing
the Host to the UART or 16-bit Parallel interface. The Ethernet
physical interface is ready to plug into the network. Software for
the module is provided as firmware that is resident on the flash.
As an embedded design, the Network Interface hardware
design can be integrated directly using the schematics provided.
Also provided are the Bill of Materials and example layouts to
minimize the hardware design effort. Software for the
embedded design is provided as firmware that is downloaded to
the flash. Whether using the Network Interface as a module or
an embedded design, no software development is required and
there are no license fees or royalties.
Software integration with a Host is also easy. Messages
passed between the Host and Network Interface follow a “Unified Interface” definition. A simple to use,
Innovasic supplied, PC-based tool configures the Network Interface, so the Host only passes parameters
between it and the Network Interface. From this tool, it is also easy to specify how parameters will be passed
to the PROFINET controller using the GSDML file. Since the Host is only passing parameters, the Host software
does not have to change if PROFINET network parameters change or if another Industrial Ethernet protocol is
used. There is also a “sockets” interface that supports direct Ethernet communication. Example C-code is
provided to minimize the software effort for the Host / Network Interface communication.