PROFIBUS ASICs

The PROFIBUS ASICs (ASIC - Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) facilitate the connection of third-party components and systems to the PROFIBUS fieldbus. Quick response times for the PROFIBUS DP, which are required for transmission rates of up to 12 Mbit/s, can only be achieved by using these ASICs. Various ASICs are available for different functional needs and applications.

Please refer to the following table for an overview of the basic functionality of the different PROFIBUS ASICs. Detailed information about each ASIC can be found on the individual product pages.

The SPC3 is an intelligent communication block for intelligent slave applications (DPV1 without interrupts), and permits connection to PROFIBUS DP. The maximum transmission rate is 12 Mbit/s. The SPC4-2 also supports PROFIBUS PA.
An external microprocessor is additionally required to operate the ASICs.

The DPC31 combines the functions of the SPC3, SPC4-2 and an 8031 processor in one chip. The DPC31 is a DP slave controller whose flexibility allows extremely versatile use. The DPC31 with its low power management is also designed for use in hazardous areas. It permits connection to PROFIBUS DP and PROFIBUS PA.
The DPC31 with the SIM1-2 offers an integral compact solution for connection to PROFIBUS PA with a transmission procedure according to IEC 1158-2. The maximum transmission rate is 12 Mbit/s for PROFIBUS DP and 31.25 kbit/s for PROFIBUS PA.

The LSPM2 is a single-chip solution for simple slave applications. As a result of its small housing, it is particularly suitable for applications where space is limited. The maximum transmission rate is 12 Mbit/s.

The ASPC2 is an intelligent communications chip for master applications. This ASIC is suitable for use in master interface modules for connection to PROFIBUS DP. The maximum transmission rate is 12 Mbit/s.

These ASICs function as supplements to existing PROFIBUS ASICs. They convert the signals into other media/transmission forms or condition the signals. The SIM1-2 (Siemens Medium Attachment Unit) is required for signal adaptation to PROFIBUS PA.
The FOCSI (Fiber Optical Controller from Siemens) provides appropriate electrical conditioning and transfer of the received/sent optical signal. In order to link the signal into a fiber-optic cable, corresponding optical transmitters and receivers are required in addition to the FOCSI.

The different PROFIBUS ASICs go along with a firmware package ("stack") that makes the implementation of the ASIC very efficient. Firmware packages are included in the PROFIBUS development kits and can also be purchased seperately.