Is it possible to transfer data between a Yokogawa UT35A controller and a Siemens S7 1200 PLC using ProfiNet communication without the need for a GSD file?
In order to add devices not listed in the hardware catalogue of the TIA portal, a GSD file is required. It is important to confirm if the device is compatible with Profinet as it is not clearly specified and only mentions Ethernet and Profibus. The device also supports RS-485, Ethernet, PROFIBUS-DP, CC-Link, and DeviceNet. According to the user manual on page 1-8, the Ethernet port can be utilized for Modbus TCP without requiring any additional hardware. However, for Profibus and Modbus RTU, communication modules would be necessary.
In theory, it should be possible to set up a communication between a Yokogawa UT35A and a Siemens S7 1200 PLC using Profinet without a GSD file. However, a GSD file will significantly facilitate the process because it contains all the necessary I/O information in a standard format. Theoretically, you could create your own equivalent of the GSD file, but it would be a laborious process prone to errors. Therefore, as a best practice, I'd recommend using a GSD file to ensure proper data transfer between your devices.
While both Yokogawa UT35A and Siemens S7 1200 PLC are advanced pieces of hardware, they communicate differently, therefore necessitating a GSD (general station description) file, which essentially allows them to understand each other in a ProfiNet network. Without such a file, the PLC won't understand the information provided by the Yokogawa controller. Even though it might seem like an extra step, the GSD file is like a shared language between devices, ensuring that data transfer is fluid and correct. I would recommend that you definitely use a GSD file for smooth interoperability.
While the Siemens S7 1200 PLC inherently supports ProfiNet communication, the Yokogawa UT35A controller does not natively support ProfiNet. You will likely need a protocol converter or gateway to translate between the two devices. Concerning the GSD file, it's primarily a Profibus-related attribute, and in the context of ProfiNet, it is not applicable. Instead, you'd usually work with GSDML (for PLC or IO systems) or IODD files, and these contain all the necessary configuration information for your devices to communicate with the network. In your case, the appliance to convert the controller's Modbus RTU or Modbus TCP to ProfiNet might require a compatible GSDML file.
While it's theoretically possible to connect different devices using ProfiNet without a GSD file, in this instance, you'd likely encounter difficulties. The GSD file essentially provides the PLC with the necessary information about the device it's communicating with (e.g., Yokogawa UT35A controller). It 'tells' the PLC what kind of inputs/outputs the device supports, its parameters, and other important features. Without this file, the Siemens S7 1200 PLC might not recognize or correctly communicate with the Yokogawa controller. Therefore, for smooth, error-free operation, I would recommend obtaining and using the GSD file.
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Answer: Answer: Yes, it is possible to transfer data between these devices using Profinet communication without the need for a GSD file.
Answer: Answer: The steps may involve configuring the Profinet parameters on both devices, ensuring compatibility with the Profinet protocol, setting up the communication settings, and establishing data exchange mechanisms.
Answer: Answer: While it is feasible to transfer data without a GSD file, some challenges may include potential compatibility issues, configuration complexities, and the need for thorough understanding of Profinet communication protocols.
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