Description
The Molex SST-PFB3-VME (including the SST-PFB3-VME-2-E and PB3-VME-2-E configurations) is a high-performance Profibus network interface card designed for VMEbus-based industrial computing architectures. This smart communication module offloads critical network processing from the host computer, acting as a high-speed master or slave interface to manage deterministic real-time communication between factory control platforms and remote Profibus DP/FMS field devices.
Product Datasheet
- Model Number: SST-PFB3-VME
- Order Codes: SST-PFB3-VME-2-E / PB3-VME-2-E
- Manufacturer: Molex / Woodhead SST
- Product Type: Profibus Communication Interface Card
- Bus Architecture: VMEbus Standard (6U Form Factor)
- Network Channels: Dual Channel (supporting concurrent network branches)
- Protocol Support: Profibus DP-V0 Master/Slave, DP-V1 Master, and Profibus FMS
- Baud Rate Range: 9.6 Kbps up to 12 Mbps (automatic detection capability)
- Dimensions: 233 mm x 20 mm x 160 mm
- Weight: 0.75 kg
- Country of Origin: Canada
MOLEX SST-PFB3-VME SST-PFB3-VME-2-E PB3-VME-2-E
MOLEX SST-PFB3-VME SST-PFB3-VME-2-E PB3-VME-2-E
MOLEX SST-PFB3-VME SST-PFB3-VME-2-E PB3-VME-2-E
Application Fields
This industrial network interface card is heavily deployed in legacy and modern high-speed VME control architectures that dictate absolute real-time communication stability. Typical sectors include:
- Automotive Press Lines: Interfacing heavy stamp machinery, robotic weld stations, and variable frequency drives via a high-density Profibus link.
- Steel Processing Mills: Running real-time positioning feedback controls and synchronized mill stand drive communications across the production line.
- Simulators and Aerospace Testing: Providing sub-millisecond I/O response rates in high-fidelity control loop simulations.
- Material Handling and Logistics: Coordinating large-scale sorting networks and automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) through VME supervisory frameworks.
Product Instructions
Execute the following technical protocols to ensure reliable VMEbus integration and to avoid data communication dropouts:
- Anti-Static Precautions: This communication module is highly susceptible to static damage. Wear a properly grounded ESD wrist strap before extracting the module from its anti-static shielding.
- Base Address Configuration: Prior to installation into the chassis, set the hardware jumpers or rotary switches on the PCB surface to configure the desired base memory address and interrupt levels according to your VME system memory map.
- Chassis Insertion: Power down the VME subrack completely. Align the card edges with the 6U guide rails, push smoothly until the DIN connectors seat fully into the backplane, and secure the module using the front-panel injector/elector handles and retaining screws.
- Network Cable Termination: Connect the standard 9-pin sub-D Profibus cables. Ensure that the physical network termination switches on the extreme end connectors of the Profibus segment are set to the “ON” position to prevent signal reflection.
Questions and Answers
Q: What do the “-2” and “-E” designations in the part number SST-PFB3-VME-2-E indicate? A: The “-2” indicates that this card is equipped with two independent Profibus channels, allowing it to manage two distinct fieldbus networks simultaneously. The “-E” suffix designates Eurocard compliance and specific updated diagnostic LED layouts on the physical faceplate.
Q: Can this module operate as a Profibus Master and Slave at the same time? A: Yes, the dual-channel design allows the module to be configured via software to run as a DP Master on one network loop while simultaneously operating as a DP Slave on a separate master architecture.
Q: How is the module configured for a specific real-time application environment? A: System engineers utilize the Molex SST console software utility to define network speeds, assign station addresses, configure I/O data lengths, and generate the necessary configuration files for the host VME operating system.
Q: How can I check active stock availability, lead times, or obtain an official price quote for this card? A: To verify available inventory levels, current delivery windows, or to request a commercial quote for the MOLEX SST-PFB3-VME SST-PFB3-VME-2-E PB3-VME-2-E, please transmit your detailed requirements straight to our distribution support office.
