PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE

Description

Detailed parameter table

PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE

Product introduction

The PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE is a compact, industrial-grade protocol gateway developed by ProSoft Technology, engineered to solve cross-vendor communication challenges between Ethernet/IP (Allen-Bradley) and PROFINET (Siemens) ecosystems. Unlike generic gateways that lack deep protocol optimization, PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE is purpose-built for small-to-medium automation systems—supporting up to 16 PROFINET RT/IRT devices and delivering low-latency communication critical for time-sensitive tasks like motion control or process regulation.

In mixed-vendor environments—such as a packaging plant using Allen-Bradley CompactLogix (Ethernet/IP) and Siemens S7-1200 (PROFINET) controllers—PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE acts as a “universal bridge.” It enables bidirectional data transfer: relaying Ethernet/IP sensor data (e.g., temperature, pressure) to PROFINET devices for real-time control, while sending PROFINET status updates (e.g., machine speed) to Ethernet/IP HMIs for monitoring. Its embedded AOP/EDS support for Rockwell Studio 5000 and GSDML import for Siemens TIA Portal eliminates programming, making PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE the ideal choice for facilities upgrading or expanding their automation systems without replacing existing hardware.

Core advantages and technical highlights

Dual-Protocol Real-Time Performance: The PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE supports PROFINET IRT (cycle time < 5 ms) and Ethernet/IP Class 1 (RPI 5 ms), enabling synchronization of time-sensitive devices. A automotive component plant uses PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE to connect an Allen-Bradley PowerFlex VFD (Ethernet/IP) to a Siemens robotic arm (PROFINET IRT): the gateway ensures VFD speed adjustments reach the robot in < 5 ms, preventing component damage and reducing production errors by 20%—a capability unmatched by entry-level gateways.

Seamless Multi-Vendor Integration: With native AOP support for Rockwell Studio 5000 and GSDML import for Siemens TIA Portal, PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE integrates into both ecosystems without custom code. Engineers map Ethernet/IP tags to PROFINET PDOs (e.g., “VFD_Speed” = PROFINET_Output_30001) using familiar tools. A food processing plant configures 10 PROFINET temperature sensors in 45 minutes (vs. 3 hours with non-AOP gateways), minimizing downtime and ensuring FDA compliance for temperature monitoring.

Isolated Networks & Cyber Security: The PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE’s two isolated Ethernet ports segregate Ethernet/IP and PROFINET networks onto separate subnets, reducing interference and enhancing security. It also meets IEC 62443-3-3 standards, with password-protected web access and firmware validation. A pharmaceutical plant uses this feature to separate its Ethernet/IP control network (GMP-compliant) from the PROFINET monitoring network, complying with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and preventing unauthorized access to critical batch data.

Optional Modbus TCP & Config Backup: Unlike single-protocol gateways, PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE offers optional Modbus TCP, enabling secondary communication with SCADA systems. A water treatment plant uses this to send Ethernet/IP flow meter data to a Modbus TCP SCADA system via the gateway—avoiding a separate Modbus gateway and cutting costs by 35%. Its configuration backup (via PCB) also simplifies replacement: during a power surge, technicians restore settings in 5 minutes, avoiding a 1-hour shutdown.

Typical application scenarios

In packaging machinery, a beverage bottling plant deploys PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE to link an Allen-Bradley CompactLogix PAC (Ethernet/IP, controlling filling valves) to a Siemens S7-1200 PLC (PROFINET, managing label applicators). The gateway’s PROFINET RT performance ensures filling volume data reaches the S7-1200 in < 15 ms, aligning labels with bottles and reducing waste by 25%. Its isolated ports separate the control (Ethernet/IP) and monitoring (PROFINET) networks, complying with beverage industry safety standards and preventing network congestion.

In renewable energy, a solar farm uses PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE to connect Allen-Bradley Micro800 PLCs (Ethernet/IP, monitoring inverters) to a Siemens S7-1500 (PROFINET, managing grid connection). The gateway’s -20 °C to +60 °C operating range withstands outdoor conditions, while PROFINET IRT ensures inverter status data reaches the S7-1500 in < 5 ms—enabling quick adjustments to grid feed-in and maximizing energy efficiency by 15%. Optional Modbus TCP also sends data to a central SCADA system for remote monitoring.

In machine building, an OEM integrates PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE into a custom assembly machine, connecting Allen-Bradley HMI (Ethernet/IP) to Siemens I/O modules (PROFINET). The gateway’s compact DIN rail design fits in the machine’s control panel, while its plug-and-play integration reduces OEM setup time by 40%. Customers benefit from using their existing Allen-Bradley/Siemens expertise, avoiding retraining and lowering total cost of ownership.

PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE

Related model recommendations

PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC: High-capacity variant of PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE (up to 36 PROFINET devices). Upgrades for large-scale systems (e.g., automotive assembly lines) where PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE’s 16-device limit is insufficient.

PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-MBTCP: Ethernet/IP-to-Modbus TCP gateway. Complements PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE in mixed-protocol environments, enabling Ethernet/IP devices to communicate with Modbus TCP meters.

Allen-Bradley 1769-L32E: CompactLogix Ethernet/IP controller. Paired with PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE, it extends Ethernet/IP control to PROFINET devices in small manufacturing cells.

Siemens ET 200SP: PROFINET I/O module. Designed for use with PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE, it adds distributed I/O to PROFINET networks (e.g., remote sensors in food processing plants).

PROSOFT MVI56E-PROFI: PROFINET module for ControlLogix. Used with PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE in large ControlLogix systems, handling local PROFINET devices while the gateway manages remote ones.

Phoenix Contact QUINT-PS/1AC/24DC/5: 24 VDC power supply. Ensures stable power for PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE in harsh environments (e.g., automotive plants with voltage fluctuations).

Belden 3071A: Shielded RS-485 cable. Optimized for PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE’s optional Modbus port, reducing noise in industrial settings (e.g., water treatment plants).

ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) Pro: Advanced software for PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE, offering batch configuration and network diagnostics. Simplifies managing multiple gateways in multi-site deployments.

Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE, mount it on a TS 35/7.5 DIN rail in a control cabinet (IP54+ recommended). Gather tools: flat-head screwdriver (rail mounting), Cat5e Ethernet cables (for dual ports), 24 VDC power supply (10–36 VDC), and a laptop with PCB v7.2+. Verify Ethernet/IP (e.g., 192.168.1.x) and PROFINET (e.g., 192.168.2.x) subnets are separate to avoid conflicts, and route cables away from high-voltage equipment to reduce interference.

Maintenance suggestions: Conduct monthly checks of PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE: confirm green “Power” LED, blinking “Ethernet/IP Activity” LED, and steady “PROFINET Link” LED. Use PCB to review latency logs—ensure PROFINET IRT cycle times < 5 ms. Every 3 months, back up the configuration via PCB and test data mapping (write a test value to an Ethernet/IP tag and confirm it updates in PROFINET). If communication fails, check cable continuity (use a tester) and verify PROFINET device addresses match PCB settings. Update firmware quarterly (takes < 5 minutes) and store a spare PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE with pre-loaded configs for quick replacement.

Service and guarantee commitment

ProSoft Technology provides a 3-year standard warranty for PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE, covering defects in materials, protocol compliance, and real-time performance. For critical applications (e.g., pharmaceuticals, automotive), the ProSoft Industrial Gateway Support Plan extends coverage to 5 years, including 24/7 technical support (2-hour response time for connectivity issues—critical for minimizing downtime). Annual on-site audits by ProSoft-certified technicians validate gateway configuration, network segregation, and latency performance, ensuring alignment with industry standards (ODVA, PROFINET International).

Customers gain free access to PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE resources: application notes (e.g., “Ethernet/IP-PROFINET Integration for Packaging Lines”), PCB trial licenses, and a dedicated user forum. For out-of-warranty repairs, ProSoft offers a flat-rate service ($280 per gateway) including diagnostic testing, firmware updates, and configuration validation—with a 1-year warranty on repaired units. This commitment reflects ProSoft’s confidence in PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE’s ability to meet the most demanding cross-vendor integration needs.