Woodward SST-PFB3-PCI Profibus Interface Card

Description

The Woodward SST-PFB3-PCI is a high-performance communication interface card designed to integrate PCI-based industrial computers into Profibus DP networks. By offloading the Profibus protocol stack management to an onboard processor, this card ensures deterministic, real-time data exchange while minimizing the processing burden on the host CPU. It is engineered for demanding industrial environments, including power generation, oil and gas refining, and large-scale mining automation, where reliable field-level device management is critical.

Features

• Protocol Support: Fully compatible with Profibus DP-V0 and DP-V1 standards for both cyclic and acyclic messaging.
• Operating Modes: Supports both Master and Slave configurations for versatile network integration.
• High-Speed Communication: Supports data rates ranging from 9.6 kbps up to 12 Mbps.
• Host Offloading: Onboard processor handles communication tasks to maintain stable system performance and low network latency.
• Robust Connectivity: Features a standard DB9 female interface for reliable physical connection to Profibus networks.

Applications

This interface card is primarily used in industrial automation systems requiring high-speed connectivity between PCI-based workstations and field devices. Common applications include distributed control systems (DCS), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) nodes, and real-time monitoring systems in critical infrastructure.

Technical Specifications

Installation Guidelines

• ESD Precautions: Always handle the card by its edges and use an anti-static wrist strap to prevent electrostatic discharge damage to sensitive components.
• Power Down: Ensure the host computer is completely powered down and disconnected from the AC supply before inserting or removing the PCI card.
• Seating: Ensure the card is firmly seated in a compatible PCI slot and secured with the mounting screw to prevent vibration-related disconnects.
• Cable Routing: Use shielded Profibus-rated cabling. Keep communication cables routed away from high-voltage power lines and sources of high EMI to maintain signal integrity.
• Driver Configuration: Ensure the appropriate Woodward communication drivers are installed on the host operating system to enable proper card recognition and protocol stack management.

FAQ

Does this card support both Master and Slave modes?

Yes, the SST-PFB3-PCI is designed to support both Master and Slave modes, allowing for flexible deployment within various Profibus network architectures.

How is the card powered?

The card draws its required 5 VDC power directly from the host computer's PCI slot, requiring no external power supply.