PLX32-EIP-SIE Prosoft Communication Gateway Module

Product Overview

The ProSoft PLX32-EIP-SIE is a dual-port EtherNet/IP to Siemens Industrial Ethernet (S7) Gateway that enables robust bi-directional data exchange between Rockwell Automation EtherNet/IP networks and Siemens S7-series PLCs. Featuring dual embedded Ethernet switches on both sides, this gateway supports daisy-chain, ring, and star topologies while providing network segmentation between EtherNet/IP and Siemens S7 domains. It is the ideal solution for large-scale hybrid automation systems requiring high-availability communication between Rockwell and Siemens control platforms.

Key Specifications

• Part Number: PLX32-EIP-SIE
• Product Type: Dual-Port EtherNet/IP to Siemens S7 Gateway
• Series: ProSoft PLX30 Gateway Platform
• EtherNet/IP Interface: 2 × 10/100 Mbps RJ45 (embedded switch)
• Siemens S7 Interface: 2 × 10/100 Mbps RJ45 (embedded switch)
• Protocol: Siemens S7 Communication (ISO-on-TCP, RFC1006)
• S7 PLC Support: S7-300, S7-400, S7-1200, S7-1500
• Max Connections: Up to 8 concurrent S7 connections
• Data Areas: DB, I, Q, M, T, C
• Data Buffer: 4 MB shared RAM
• Configuration: ProSoft PLX50 Configuration Utility
• Power Input: 10–36 VDC
• Mounting: DIN rail
• Operating Temperature: -25°C to +70°C
• Certifications: CE, UL, cULus, RoHS

Features & Benefits

• Dual-Port Redundancy: Embedded switches on both sides enable ring topologies and cable redundancy
• Network Segmentation: Physically separates EtherNet/IP process control network from Siemens S7 engineering network
• Native S7 Protocol: Full ISO-on-TCP implementation — no OPC server, middleware, or custom programming required
• Multi-PLC Connectivity: Up to 8 simultaneous S7 connections to distributed Siemens controllers
• Deterministic Performance: Configurable scan intervals as low as 10 ms for real-time process synchronization
• Web-Based Diagnostics: Built-in HTTP server for connection monitoring, error logging, and remote firmware updates

Applications

• Large automotive plants with Rockwell assembly lines and Siemens body-in-white welding controllers
• Power generation with Siemens DCS turbine control and Rockwell BOP (Balance of Plant) systems
• Steel mill hot rolling with Siemens drive systems and Rockwell Level 2 process control
• Chemical processing with Siemens S7-400 safety systems and Rockwell batch management

Installation Guide

1. DIN Rail Mount: Install the PLX32-EIP-SIE on a 35 mm DIN rail with proper chassis grounding
2. Power Connection: Apply 24VDC (10–36VDC range) from an industrial-grade power supply
3. EtherNet/IP Network: Connect Port 1/2 to your Rockwell EtherNet/IP network (Stratix or DLR-capable switch)
4. Siemens S7 Network: Connect Port 1/2 to your Siemens Industrial Ethernet (SCALANCE or equivalent)
5. IP Configuration: Use PLX50 Configuration Utility to set IP addresses, subnet masks, and gateways for both networks
6. S7 PLC Setup: In TIA Portal/STEP 7, enable S7 communication and configure TSAPs for each connection
7. Data Mapping: Define S7 data block addresses and map to EtherNet/IP assembly instances
8. Studio 5000: Add the gateway as a generic EtherNet/IP module with matching assembly sizes
9. Redundancy Testing: If using ring topology, verify RSTP or DLR failover by disconnecting one cable

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between PLX31-EIP-SIE and PLX32-EIP-SIE?
A: The PLX31 has single Ethernet ports for basic point-to-point or switched connections. The PLX32 has dual embedded switches on each side, supporting daisy-chain, ring, and redundant network architectures.

Q: Can I use Device Level Ring (DLR) on the EtherNet/IP side?
A: The PLX32-EIP-SIE supports linear and star topologies via its embedded switch. For full DLR beacon-based ring support, verify specific firmware capabilities or use a Stratix switch for DLR management.

Q: Does this support Siemens S7-1500 R/H redundant systems?
A: The gateway can connect to S7-1500 R/H systems by configuring separate connections to each redundant CPU. Consult ProSoft for specific R/H integration guidelines.

Q: Is there a limit to data block size per connection?
A: The gateway supports large data transfers, but practical limits depend on S7 PDU size (typically 240–960 bytes per request depending on CPU model). Split large data sets across multiple connections if needed.

Selection Tips

• Choose PLX32 over PLX31 if your network architecture requires daisy-chaining or cable redundancy
• Verify your S7-1500 CPUs have sufficient S7 connection resources (one per gateway connection)
• Use managed switches with IGMP snooping if multicast traffic (e.g., Profinet mDNS) is present
• Plan IP address schemes to avoid conflicts between EtherNet/IP and Siemens S7 subnets
• For high-availability applications, deploy redundant PLX32 gateways with HSR/PRP or managed switch failover