PROFIBUS Inspektor^®:
Continuous Bus Monitoring, Condition-based Maintenance

Area of application

The PROFIBUS Inspektor^® BC-502-PB is a powerful tool for early detection of developing problems on PROFIBUS networks. By continuously monitoring all traffic on the bus, it reliably detects even slow, initially uncritical deteriorations in the bus communication. If maintenance action is required, the tool automatically alerts the operational staff. This allows implementing a conditionbased maintenance strategy that reduces operator intervention to when it is needed.

Features

Based on protocol analyses, the BC-502-PB determines the bus cycle time and detects the following error events:

• Device drop & add
• Device errors/diagnostics
• Error frames
• Retransmissions

When the number of error events exceeds the configured maximum limit per measuring period, the PROFIBUS Inspektor^® sends an alarm to the PLC via signaling contact, or to a central server via network. Users can select specific error events for which they want to record snapshots of the entire frame traffic. The diagnostic details can be viewed either locally at the unit or remotely via network using a web browser. A PC software installation is not required. Limit values are also configured in the same way.

Part no.

• BC-502-PB

Additional information

• Product information
• Device manual
• Live Demonstration

Advantages and benefits

One Inspektor per bus line is all that is needed – no matter how many physical segments are to be monitored. The tool can be used on the live Profibus without interfering with its operation. It can thus be installed anytime, even temporarily, without undesirable side effects. No bus address or changes to the PLC program are required. In addition, the tool's open functionality allows use across all controller and bus station types.

The PROFIBUS Inspektor^® BC-502-PB supports a condition-based maintenance strategy, improving staff utilization and effectiveness. Action is only taken when it is actually needed. By enhancing the operational reliability, the tool increases plant availability while making best use of the often scarce maintenance resources. It helps maximize productivity and minimize downtimes by permitting planned maintenance action.

Technical articles:

• Early-warning system for PROFIBUS