System Overview
S5-115F Manual
1.3.4
Intelligent Input/Output Modules and Communications Processors
You can connect the CP 523 to the S5-115F direct in the central controller or in expansion units of
one of the subunits. All further CPs and IPs of the SIMATIC family are used via an S5 controller of
the U range (S5-115U, -135U, -150U, -155U) connected via a SINEC L1 LAN.
Intelligent input/output modules (IPs) preprocess input signals and data.
Communications modules (CPs) control communications using:
•
Operator panels
•
Process visualization panels
•
Other programmable controllers
Intelligent I/Os and communications processors the offload the CPU considerably.
1.4
Expansion Capability
If the connection capability of one central controller (CC) is no longer sufficient for your machine
or system, increase the capacity with expansion units (EUs).
Interface modules connect a CC to EUs and connect EUs to each other. Choose an interface module
to suit the controller configuration you need.
1.4.1
Centralized Configuration
The interface modules for centralized configurations connect bus lines and supply voltage to the
EUs. The expansion units in such configurations therefore need no power supplies of their own.
A centralized configuration allows you to connect up to three EUs to one CC. The cables between
the individual controllers or expansion units have a total maximum length of 2.5 m (8.2 ft.).
1.4.2
Distributed Configuration
A distributed configuration allows you to relocate expansion units nearer to the sensors and
actuators of your machine.
Distributed configurations reduce cabling costs for these devices.
The flexibility of a controller is of decisive importance for the productivity of a manufacturing
plant. Complex control tasks can be shared out among distributed controllers in order to achieve
the highest possible flexibility.
This means you have:
•
Smaller, more manageable units. This makes configuring, startup, diagnostics, modification
and operation easier, and facilitates monitoring of the overall process.
•
More availability in the system since the remaining system can continue to operate despite the
failure of one unit.
Information flow between the individual controllers must be guaranteed in the case of distributed
systems so that
•
Data can be exchanged between the individual programmable controllers
•
Manufacturing plants can be monitored, operated and controlled centrally
•
Management information can be gathered (e.g. production data and stock levels).
1-4
EWA 4NEB 811 6148-02