Belden expands the line of DataBus cables for PROFIBUS applications

Belden, a leading international supplier of signal transmission solutions, has introduced new PROFIBUS cables in a stranded design for increased flexibility as well as a continuously corrugated armor product for additional protection in very harsh environments.

PROFIBUS is an extension of the DataBus cable range and is designed to reduce operating costs, increase productivity, decrease time to market for new products and improve product quality.

The benefit to the end user is that, unlike standard 4-20mA controls, it can support up to 32 devices per segment – that means up to a total of 126 devices, depending on total system current.

Erik Holzwilder, Market Manager Industrial EMEA of Belden says, ‘These new cables provide high performance solutions when increased flexibility is required or extra protection is needed in harsh environments.’

Special cabling features of PROFIBUS

PROFIBUS uses shielded twisted pair cables for industrial environments and in the following configurations: line, tree and star (and combinations of these topologies). The network can support up to 126 nodes by using up to 9 repeaters. Standard connections are made through using a 9-pin D-subminiature connector. Transmission speeds are selectable starting at 9.6kbs. There is also the option of using multiple masters on a single twisted pair cable.

Because of the superior features of Belden DataBus cables, distance limitation can be exceeded without any enhancements to the system or any sacrifice in its performance.

Uses for PROFIBUS

PROFIBUS is one of the largest fieldbusses in the world. Its protocol applies to all applications. However, it order to meet different factory floor requirements, it may be combined with industry-specific applications profiles and relevant transmission technology.

The applications include the following:

• PROFIBUS DP for optimised factory automation

• PROFIBUS PA for optimised process automation

• PROFIsafe for PROFIBUS safety-related systems

• PROFIdrive for PROFIBUS motion control

DataBus cables for PROFIBUS

Belden has developed three DataBus cables for PROFIBUS DP. The first is a twisted pair cable that matches the impedance of the factory automation system and allows for signal transmission. This incorporates an overall Beldfoil shield plus a 65% tinned copper braid for maximum shielding effectiveness. It also carries a special listing so that maximum installation versatility can be achieved.

The second new product is a stranded cable that provides additional flexibility both during installation and when in use. The third is a continuously corrugated aluminium armoured cable designed to withstand very harsh environments.

Belden also offers other related cable products together with special jacket compounds, coloring and armouring options to suit end users’ specific requirements.