Description
1. Product Title
SST-PB3-VME – Profibus Communication Interface for VMEbus
2. Product Overview
The SST SST-PB3-VME is a high-performance Profibus interface module specifically engineered for systems utilizing the VMEbus architecture. It serves as a specialized communication gateway, allowing VME-based industrial computers and controllers to act as either a Profibus DP Master or Slave. The SST-PB3-VME is a critical component for legacy system maintenance and modern high-speed control applications where VMEbus reliability is required alongside the versatility of Profibus networking.
By offloading the communication processing from the host VME CPU, the SST-PB3-VME ensures deterministic performance and high-speed data throughput. This solves the common industrial challenge of integrating rugged VME computing environments with standard fieldbus devices like sensors, actuators, and motor drives. Whether used for plant-wide control or high-speed data acquisition, this module provides a robust and stable link for critical process information.
3. Technical Specifications
- Brand: SST (Molex / Woodhead)
- Model: SST-PB3-VME
- Warranty: One Year
- Condition: 100% New & Original
- Bus Interface: VMEbus (Standard 6U form factor)
- Profibus Connection: 9-pin D-Sub Female (DB9)
- Data Rates: 9.6 Kbps to 12 Mbps (Auto-baud support)
- Protocols: Profibus DP-V0, DP-V1 (Master and Slave)
- Onboard Processor: High-speed communication co-processor
- Memory: Shared memory interface for host CPU data exchange
- Operating Temp: 0°C to +60°C
- Current Draw: Typically 1.5A @ +5V DC
4.
Key Features & Benefits
- Autonomous Processing: The SST-PB3-VME features an onboard processor that handles the entire Profibus protocol stack, freeing up the VME host CPU for high-level logic and application tasks.
- Master/Slave Versatility: The module can be configured as a DP Master to control remote I/O or as a DP Slave to report data to a higher-level PLC or DCS, providing maximum flexibility in network design.
- Fast Data Exchange: Utilizing a shared memory mapping technique, the SST-PB3-VME allows for nearly instantaneous data transfer between the VMEbus and the Profibus network, which is essential for time-sensitive control loops.
- Extensive Diagnostic Tools: Includes built-in LED indicators and software-accessible status registers to monitor network health and identify wiring or configuration faults quickly.
5. Application Scenarios
- Aerospace & Defense Testing: Integrated into VME-based simulation and test stands to communicate with Profibus-compatible instrumentation and motor controllers.
- Steel & Rolling Mills: Used in heavy-duty VME control racks to manage decentralized I/O stations and high-power drives across the factory floor.
- Nuclear Power Instrumentation: Deployed in legacy VMEbus systems to provide a modern communication interface for radiation monitoring and secondary cooling system control.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the primary function of the SST-PB3-VME?
- A: The SST-PB3-VME is an interface card that enables a VMEbus computer to communicate with other devices over a Profibus DP industrial network.
- Q: Does the SST-PB3-VME support all Profibus speeds?
- A: Yes, the module supports the full range of Profibus baud rates, from 9.6 Kbps up to the maximum standard of 12 Mbps.
- Q: Is this module compatible with modern 6U VME racks?
- A: The SST-PB3-VME is designed to the standard 6U VMEbus specification and is compatible with most standard VME backplanes and enclosures.
