CPU 410 Process Automation/CPU 410 SMART
System Manual, 05/2017, A5E31622160-AC
23
Introduction to the CPU 410
2
2.1
Area of application of the CPU 410 in SIMATIC PCS 7
Purpose of redundant automation systems
In practice, redundant automation systems are used to achieve fault-tolerant or fail-safe
systems.
Figure 2-1
Purpose of redundant automation systems
Please note the difference between fail-tolerant and fail-safe
systems. The AS 410 H is a fault-tolerance automation system. You may only use it for
controlling safety-related processes if you program and configure it in accordance with the
rules for F systems. You can find information on this in following manual: SIMATIC Industrial
Software S7 F/FH Systems (
http://support.automation.siemens.com/WW/view/en/2201072
Why use fault-tolerant automation systems?
The purpose of fault-tolerance automation systems is to reduce production downtime caused
by faults or by maintenance work.
The greater the costs of downtime, the more worthwhile a fault-tolerant system. The costs of
investing in a fault-tolerant system are generally higher, but are rapidly recovered by the
avoidance of production downtime.