Prosoft PLX32-EIP-PND EtherNet/IP to PROFINET Device Gateway

Product Overview

The ProSoft PLX32-EIP-PND is a dual-port EtherNet/IP to PROFINET Device Gateway that enables seamless bi-directional data exchange between Rockwell Automation EtherNet/IP controllers and Siemens PROFINET IO controllers. Featuring two independent Ethernet ports with embedded switch functionality, this gateway allows devices on different subnets to communicate transparently. It is ideal for hybrid manufacturing environments integrating Allen-Bradley and Siemens control platforms without complex programming or protocol conversion overhead.

Key Specifications

• Part Number: PLX32-EIP-PND
• Product Type: EtherNet/IP to PROFINET Device Gateway
• Series: ProSoft PLX30 Gateway Platform
• EtherNet/IP Interface: 2 × 10/100 Mbps RJ45 (embedded switch)
• PROFINET Interface: 2 × 10/100 Mbps RJ45 (embedded switch)
• EtherNet/IP Role: Adapter (Server) or Scanner (Client)
• PROFINET Role: Device (Slave)
• Data Transfer: Bi-directional, up to 1440 bytes per direction
• Configuration: ProSoft PLX50 Configuration Utility
• Power Input: 10–36 VDC
• Mounting: DIN rail
• Operating Temperature: -25°C to +70°C (standard); -40°C to +75°C (XT variant)
• Certifications: CE, UL, cULus, ATEX, IECEx

Features & Benefits

• Dual-Port Design: Independent Ethernet switches on both sides enable flexible network topologies and subnet isolation
• Transparent Data Mapping: No programming required — data maps directly between EtherNet/IP tags and PROFINET IO data records
• Simultaneous Protocols: Acts as EtherNet/IP Adapter and PROFINET Device simultaneously
• Auto-MDIX: Automatic crossover detection eliminates need for special Ethernet cables
• Web Diagnostics: Built-in HTTP server for real-time status monitoring, packet capture, and firmware updates
• Conformal Coating Option: XT variant available for corrosive or high-humidity environments

Applications

• Automotive assembly lines integrating Rockwell PLCs with Siemens ET200 distributed I/O
• Food & beverage packaging with Allen-Bradley controllers and Siemens V90 servo drives
• Pharmaceutical batch processing with FDA validation requiring mixed-vendor platforms
• Steel mill rolling mill automation with mixed Rockwell/Siemens control systems

Installation Guide

1. Mount Gateway: Secure the PLX32-EIP-PND to a DIN rail in an IP20-rated control cabinet
2. Power Connection: Apply 24VDC (10–36VDC range) to the power connector; verify PWR LED illuminates
3. EtherNet/IP Side: Connect Port 1 or 2 to your Rockwell EtherNet/IP network (Stratix switch recommended)
4. PROFINET Side: Connect Port 1 or 2 to your Siemens PROFINET network (SCALANCE switch recommended)
5. IP Configuration: Use the PLX50 Configuration Utility to set IP addresses for both network interfaces
6. Data Mapping: Define input/output data blocks mapping EtherNet/IP assembly instances to PROFINET slots/subslots
7. Studio 5000: Add the gateway as a generic EtherNet/IP module in your ControlLogix project
8. TIA Portal: Import the GSDML file and add the gateway as a PROFINET device in your Siemens project
9. Testing: Verify data exchange by monitoring tags in Studio 5000 and TIA Portal simultaneously

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between PLX31-EIP-PND and PLX32-EIP-PND?
A: The PLX31 has single Ethernet ports on each side (simpler topology), while the PLX32 has dual Ethernet ports with embedded switches on each side, supporting daisy-chain or ring topologies.

Q: Does this gateway require programming in the PLC?
A: No, the gateway operates transparently. Once configured, data flows automatically between mapped memory areas without ladder logic.

Q: Can I use this for safety-rated (PROFIsafe) communication?
A: No, the PLX32-EIP-PND does not support PROFIsafe or CIP Safety. It is designed for standard process data exchange only.

Q: Is VLAN tagging supported?
A: Yes, the gateway supports IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging for network segmentation and traffic prioritization.

Selection Tips

• Choose PLX32 over PLX31 if you need daisy-chain topology or device-level ring (DLR) on either side
• Verify your EtherNet/IP scanner supports the gateway's assembly instance sizes
• Ensure your PROFINET controller (S7-1200/1500, ET200) supports the GSDML file revision
• For installations near welding or chemical processing, order the XT (extended temperature/conformal coat) variant
• Plan data block sizes carefully — larger blocks consume more PLC memory but reduce communication overhead