With the classic available network tools like TIA-Portal, E-Plan or MS-VISIO, it is no longer possible to design networks in which more as one homogeneous controller, or additional applications for visualization, cameras applications, printer or data server works.

Like in the IT-world, a separate network planning tool is necessary which can plan and draws across all controllers and applications in the network.

Network parameters to be planned:

• expected netload in depends of the chosen update time
• planning of additional netload about other applications like Scada, camera, printer, remote access, data server
• line deepness
• number of devices
• ip addresses and sub-nets
• VLAN planning and check
• PLC data throughput

Infrastructure-device parameters to be planned:

• necessary number of switches and ports in the network
• part lists
• connection lists
• backbone structure
• backplane capacity
• throughput
• access or distribution layer switches are necessary
• VLAN lists

network drawings and accessories:

• drawing of network structure with all devices and active/passive network infrastructure components

In this lecture we show with a real-live application, how fast four actually homogeneous designed networks turn into a heterogeneous one due to the need of a remote access possibility. This meant for the PLC commissioning guys, now there was a VLAN separation of the four networks, a VLAN router and the VLAN adjustment in the switches necessary. A good and real network planning tool supports you.

More information at Prokorment

Door René Heidl, Indu-sol (namens Prokorment)

Deze lezing is Engelstalig