SafetyBUS p is a proven bus system from Pilz, developed in 1999 based on CAN communication technology and communicating via shielded 3-core cables. SafetyBUS p allows for secure and rapid networking of PSS programmable safety control systems, and its open protocol ensures perfect compatibility with field modules from other manufacturers. When implementing safety control technologies, SafetyBUS p offers an economical and practical solution, finding wide application in industries such as automotive, steel, paper, semiconductors, metal processing, water treatment, energy, logistics, and chemicals.
From PSS SB DIO to PS Universal
In 2005, Pilz introduced the PSSuniversal, a modular remote I/O station and a replacement for the PSS SB DIO series. This allows for flexible configuration of I/O modules to suit individual customer needs, significantly increasing flexibility compared to older products. A single PSSuniversal head module can support up to 64 digital input/output points. If a user needs to replace the PSS SB DI16 module, they only need to select one PSSu H SB interface module, one PSSu EF PS power module, four PSSu EF 4DI safety digital input modules, and corresponding terminal blocks. In terms of size, the new PSSuniversal is more compact, with the same height as the PSS SB DI16 module but a narrower width, thus requiring less cabinet space. The PSSuniversal remote I/O station supports SafetyBUS p communication as well as third-party communication, such as Profibus-DP, allowing customers to handle the interaction between safety and standard signals simultaneously. The support for standard signal modules also enables the PSSuniversal remote I/O station to go beyond applications that handle safety signals, allowing it to acquire standard signals and communicate more flexibly with third-party PLCs.
Figure 1. SafetyBUS p-bus architecture
Before the launch of PSSuniversal, the SafetyBUS p compact secure remote I/O station – PSS SB DIO – was widely used in many industries. However, with the advancements in semiconductor technology and the product itself, the PSS SB DIO series began to be discontinued starting in 2015. Many users began to worry about the availability of spare parts, fearing that equipment failures would lead to downtime and impact on the overall lifespan and economic benefits.
Figure 2. PS Universal Module
In fact, Pilz considered ease of upgrades when developing the PSSuniversal. If a customer wants to upgrade their safety control system, they only need to replace the existing PSS SB DIO series modules with the PSSuniversal series. On the software side, only the safety bus topology configuration needs to be modified in the WIN-PRO software; no changes to the code logic are required. This approach reduces unnecessary downtime for users and significantly reduces the workload of equipment upgrades.
Figure 3. SafetyBUS p-bus topology diagram before & after
For users unfamiliar with the SafetyBUS p system, we can provide a complete upgrade solution, from hardware product replacement and upgrades to software program modifications, to help customers smoothly complete the replacement of the entire safety system.
From PSS 3000 to PSS 4000
With advancements in semiconductor technology, the PSS3000 series has completed its historical mission, replaced by the superior PSS4000 series. The PSS4000 system surpasses the PSS3000 in numerous aspects, including smaller module size, faster CPU processing speed, and more scalable I/O module configurations. It even includes the PSS4000-R product, specifically designed for the railway industry with a higher safety level. Simultaneously, the SafetyBUS p safety bus has been upgraded to SafetyNET p secure Ethernet communication, offering longer transmission distances, faster response times, and data access from every point in the network. Similarly, Pilz offers upgrade services from PSS3000 to PSS4000 systems for users who need them, significantly improving the lifespan and production efficiency of their safety control systems.
Figure 4. PSS 4000 & SafetyNet p system
The evolution of the SafetyBUS p system is just a microcosm of Pilz's product upgrades. With continuous product innovation and consistently high-quality service, Pilz is committed to helping users achieve safe production through its expertise and dedication to equipment safety, making it a trustworthy "safety consultant."
