commModule APL, a new hardware module from Softing Industrial Automation, is designed to support device manufacturers in implementing Ethernet-APL field devices for the process industry quickly and reliably.
As previously covered at CI&M, Ethernet Advanced Physical Layer (Ethernet-APL) is the new standard for end-to-end digital communication in the process industry, and is also suitable for use in hazardous areas. As observed by Softing's product introduction of the new module:
Device manufacturers will have to prepare themselves for growing demand from end-users for this modern data transmission technology. They now face the challenge of developing and certifying new Ethernet-APL-capable devices within the shortest possible time-to-market -- ideally without having to build up extensive specialist knowledge of Ethernet-APL. As a ready-to-use and pre-certified hardware for the implementation of Ethernet-APL field devices, commModule APL supports manufacturers in exactly this challenge.
Softing noted the new hardware module provides connectivity to Ethernet-APL, as well as an application software that can be easily configured to implement the required behavior of the respective field device.
Significantly, commModule-APL is delivered with a pre-installed PROFINET stack. It provides a configurable application data model and commands mapping to migrate existing HART and Modbus devices to Ethernet-APL.
"This does not require writing a single line of code," adds Softing's product statement, which further explains, "The assignment to HART or Modbus commands is done with the accompanying commScripter tool."
Softing said the commModule APL module has already passed comprehensive EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) and environmental testing, as well as conformance testing for the Ethernet-APL Physical Layer and for the PROFINET protocol with PA Profile 4.02. It is also pre-certified in accordance with ATEX and IECEx. These features drastically reduce the effort, risk and time required to develop device hardware.
At Hannover Messe 2022 (May 30 - June 02, 22) in Germany, Softing will present the commModule APL at the partner booth of PROFIBUS & PROFINET International, in the event's Hall 9 / Booth D68.