If you want to connect sensors and actuators to a PROFINET controller in a decentralised way – without running every single wire all the way back to the main cabinet – the Solidot PN5R series offers a compact, low-profile PROFINET remote I/O system. The modules sit where the signals originate – on the machine or in the field distributor – and transmit all inputs and outputs to the controller over a single Ethernet cable. Every channel has three dedicated terminals: signal, 24 V and 0 V. Sensors and actuators are therefore powered directly at the module, with no separate distribution terminals. Status LEDs right next to each channel show every input and output directly at the terminal point. 🏭 Typical applications Decentralised machine modules: Each assembly gets its own I/O module, connected via the PROFINET line – new modules are simply added in series. Relieve the control cabinet: Instead of hundreds of wires to the central cabinet, only two RJ45 cables run per module. Fewer cable ducts, fewer terminals, a clearer system. Sensor wiring without a distribution level: Because 24 V and 0 V are carried on every channel, a three-wire sensor goes straight onto the module – no additional potential distribution, no jumper combs. Retrofit on Siemens controllers: Extend existing S7-1200 or S7-1500 installations with decentralised I/O without enlarging the central PLC. Mixed signal direction: From a pure 32-channel input or output module to the 16/16 combination – on the 1616B+ model, 16 channels are freely configurable as inputs or outputs. So one variant still fits even when requirements change. 🌐 PROFINET: one cable for all signals The PN5R modules are standard-compliant PROFINET slaves and are imported into the project via their GSDML device description file. Each module has two RJ45 ports (100 Mbps) and is daisy-chained – no additional switch required. The minimum cycle time between controller and module is 1 ms, the input reaction time 150 µs. 🔗 Compatibility As a standard PROFINET device, the PN5R series works with controllers from various manufacturers; the manual documents configuration in TIA Portal V17. The inputs of the 3200 and 1616B types accept either NPN or PNP sensors – handy when both sensor types exist in your installed base. 🔌 Design and connection 3 terminals per channel: Signal, 24 V and 0 V are available on every channel – sensor and actuator supply is integrated in the module. That saves the entire supply distribution in the cabinet. Tool-free spring terminals: Power supply (8-pole) and I/O are connected via push-in spring terminals – insert the conductor, done, no screwdriver needed. Mounting: 35 mm DIN rail or direct wall mounting via the side fixing ears. Compact low-profile housing (182 × 58 × 34 mm), passive cooling – no fan, no maintenance. Power supply: 24 V DC, permissible 20.4 – 28.8 V DC, max. 8 A per terminal group on the field side. Green status LED per channel, right at the terminal. ⚙️ Configurable without extra software DIP switch on the device: The alarm version and – on the configurable models – the direction of the I/O channels are set directly on the module. Input filter 0 to 20 ms: Adjustable per module via PROFINET (factory setting 3 ms) – bouncing contacts can be settled without PLC code. Clear/hold on bus failure: Outputs can be configured module-wide or per channel to "clear", "set to 1" or "hold last value". Diagnostics: Short-circuit and reverse-polarity protection with automatic recovery, wire-break and alarm messages via PROFINET, firmware update supported. ⚠️ Limits stated honestly Protection rating IP20 – for control cabinets or protected enclosures, not for the unprotected field environment. Power supply exclusively 20.4 – 28.8 V DC, no AC supply. Operation from -20 °C to +60 °C (passive cooling). Standard process I/O – no functional-safety (safety) inputs/outputs. A separate safety controller is required for emergency stop and similar functions. PN5R modules are slave devices and require a PROFINET controller – they do not replace a PLC. The input filter applies per module, not per channel. 🏷️ Manufacturer and reliability Solidot (s'Dot) specialises in industrial networking and remote I/O technology. The PN5R modules are CE- and RoHS-compliant and built for industrial use; inputs and outputs are galvanically isolated (500 V AC) and the transistor outputs are short-circuit proof with automatic recovery. Tested to IEC 60068-2-6 (vibration) and IEC 60068-2-27 (shock). spstiger offers the series with German-language advice and support.