The Profibus-Tester V3 is a testing tool that supplies an immediate overview of the signal conditions along the line and which enables fault localisation in Profibus networks.

The Profibus-Tester V3 is a testing tool that supplies an immediate overview of the signal conditions along the line and which enables fault localisation in Profibus networks. Most fieldbuses use a twisted-pair cable according to RS485 specifications as their physical medium. Bugs in the application software are often suspected when fieldbus systems are set into operation.

However, experience shows that an incorrect design and incorrect parameters of the bus cabling system can be blamed for the majority of all practical problems.

Typical errors of bus cabling systems include: incorrect bus termination; excessive high contact resistance due to aging/corrosion; inadequate transmission levels (predamaged bus drivers); poor signal quality (excessive length of stub lines); use of incorrect lines; and cable routing through environments subject to substantial interference.

Using the Profibus-Tester V3 it is possible to record and show the signal conditions of each Profibus station - even if the machines are running.

From the results of the signal quality tests (signal to noise and edge steepness) it is possible to draw conclusions of problems caused by these stations or by the bus cabling.

In addition an online control monitors and checks the complete bus traffic, including the time of circulation of the token bus and the telegram error counter.

A master simulator makes it possible to check the bus during the installation.