In our current project, we are in the process of upgrading from old Siemens FDC-157 PA couplers to Anybus ComBricks PA couplers. However, we have encountered some issues with a few transmitters connected to the bus out of over 50 transmitters. These transmitters are not communicating with the PLC properly and are sending illegal data from the perspective of the ComBricks PA module. One specific transmitter, the Baumer FlexBar, is causing trouble. After testing, we found that one transmitter (LT120) is not showing up in ComBricks and is sending illegal messages, while another identical transmitter (LT165) is working perfectly. Both transmitters were manufactured by Baumer FlexBar in 2011/2012 and function well with the old Siemens PA couplers. The issue is perplexing as the faulty transmitter can be detected by ProfiCore for diagnostics, but not by ComBricks. After trying various troubleshooting methods such as setting the PA module in link mode and changing device addresses, the problem persists. This discrepancy in behavior between the two monitoring systems is puzzling, especially considering the seamless performance with the old Siemens couplers. If anyone has insights or suggestions on resolving this issue, your input would be greatly appreciated.
While I primarily work with Profibus DP instead of PA, I am not well-versed in Profitrace. It appears that there may be an underlying issue related to electrical components rather than software. It seems to be operating on the edge of acceptability. One thing to note is the baud rate difference between couplers - Siemens couplers use 45.45 Kbaud, while others like P&F use 31.25 Kbaud. Have you considered adjusting the baud rate when switching couplers? For more information, you can refer to the Profitrace manual available at https://procentec.com/media/1792/profitrace2-manual-en.pdf.
Alfredo Quintero mentioned that while he primarily works with Profibus DP over Profibus PA, there seems to be an issue with Profitrace that is more related to low-level electrical aspects rather than software. One specific concern is the baud rate difference between Siemens couplers (45.45 Kbaud) and others like P&F (31.25 Kbaud). Have you adjusted the baud rate when changing couplers? For further information, you can refer to the Profitrace manual here. Thank you for the response! The baud rate remains at "45.45 (31.25)kbps" in the DP settings, with only lower options of 9.6kbps or 19.2kbps available. Despite the potential for higher speeds in LINK mode with the ComBricks PA module, the issue persists. Attempting to configure the bus parameters based on the ComBricks manual has also been unsuccessful. It is worth noting that these devices were tested on a small PA test-network directly connected to the device, ensuring a strong electrical connection.
What is the total length of the PA bus and the maximum number of devices connected per segment? Are all segments correctly terminated at both ends to ensure proper network functionality?
Alfredo Quintero inquired about the total length of the PA bus and the number of devices connected per segment. It is essential to ensure that each segment is appropriately terminated at both ends. In my testing, I created a 2-meter long PA bus with either an LT120 or LT165 transmitter and a Siemens end termination. This setup eliminates potential interference and problems within the bus.
If further information is not available, I may not be able to provide additional guidance. It may be necessary to utilize a tool capable of conducting analysis at a physical level, unless someone with expertise in Manchester bus power technology is available to use an oscilloscope to diagnose the issue. In such cases, the Softing Profibus tester with a probe for PA could be recommended, although it comes at a cost. It is possible that a system integrator in Norway may have this tool, but purchasing it for future use may be more cost-effective than hiring someone to troubleshoot your network. The Softing Profibus tester brochure can be found at the following link: https://industrial.softing.com/uploads/softing_downloads/BC700_U_EN_V1_34.pdf#page=12
It sounds like you're dealing with a tricky compatibility issue between the old transmitters and the new ComBricks setup. Since the LT120 is detected by ProfiCore but not by ComBricks, it might be worth checking the configuration settings on that specific transmitter, as sometimes older devices require specific parameters to communicate properly with newer systems. Additionally, you could look into any firmware updates for the ComBricks PA module, as well as the transmitters, to ensure everything is aligned. Maybe a closer inspection of wiring or even testing the LT120 on a different bus segment could shed some light on the root of the issue. Good luck, and I hope you find a solution soon!
It sounds like a frustrating situation, especially with so many transmitters in play! Since the LT120 works perfectly with the Siemens couplers but not with ComBricks, it might be worth checking the configuration settings specific to the ComBricks system for that particular transmitter. Sometimes, minor differences in data protocols or settings can cause compatibility issues even between identical models. You might also want to look into firmware updates for the LT120 if available, as that could rectify any underlying communication issues. Additionally, have you reached out to Baumer support? They might have encountered something similar with these older models. Good luck with your troubleshooting!
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Answer: - This could be due to compatibility issues between the Baumer FlexBar transmitters and the Anybus ComBricks PA coupler. It is possible that the LT120 transmitter may have specific configuration settings or hardware differences causing the communication problems.
Answer: - Some troubleshooting methods that have been tried include setting the PA module in link mode, changing device addresses, and utilizing ProfiCore for diagnostics. Despite these efforts, the issue with the LT120 transmitter persists. Further troubleshooting steps may be needed to pinpoint the root cause of the problem.
Answer: - This discrepancy in behavior between the two monitoring systems could indicate a specific issue related to how the Anybus ComBricks PA module interacts with the Baumer FlexBar transmitter. It is essential to investigate the communication protocols and compatibility between the devices to understand why the detection differs.
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