SST SST-PFB-SLC – PROFIBUS-DP Scanner Module | SLC 500 Platform
Engineering Background
The SST-PFB-SLC is a dedicated PROFIBUS-DP master/scanner communication module engineered by SST (Woodhead / Molex) for seamless integration into Allen-Bradley SLC 500 backplane systems. Designed for industrial environments where deterministic fieldbus communication is non-negotiable, this module bridges SLC 500 controllers with PROFIBUS-DP slave devices — sensors, drives, I/O blocks, and actuators — across manufacturing, process, and infrastructure applications.
Product Positioning
Targeted at automation engineers and system integrators who require a proven, drop-in PROFIBUS-DP scanner for existing SLC 500 installations, the SST-PFB-SLC eliminates the need for gateway hardware or protocol converters. It occupies a standard SLC 500 I/O slot and communicates directly with the SLC processor via the backplane, delivering low-latency, high-reliability fieldbus scanning with full GSD-based device configuration support.
Complete Technical Specifications
| Part Number | SST-PFB-SLC |
| Manufacturer | SST (Woodhead / Molex) |
| Platform Compatibility | Allen-Bradley SLC 500 (SLC 5/03, 5/04, 5/05) |
| Protocol | PROFIBUS-DP (EN 50170 / IEC 61158) |
| Module Role | PROFIBUS-DP Master (Class 1 Scanner) |
| Max Slave Devices | Up to 125 PROFIBUS-DP slaves |
| Baud Rates Supported | 9.6 kbps – 12 Mbps (auto-detect) |
| Max Cable Length | Up to 1,200 m @ 9.6 kbps; 100 m @ 12 Mbps |
| Backplane Interface | SLC 500 standard I/O slot (1746 backplane) |
| Configuration Tool | SST PROFIBUS Configuration Software (GSD-based) |
| Input Data Table | Up to 128 words (256 bytes) input |
| Output Data Table | Up to 128 words (256 bytes) output |
| Power Consumption | Supplied via SLC 500 backplane (5 VDC) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +60°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Humidity | 5% to 95% RH (non-condensing) |
| Enclosure / Form Factor | Single-slot SLC 500 I/O module |
| Weight | 160 g |
| Certifications | CE, UL (verify with current datasheet) |
| Connector | DB-9 female (PROFIBUS standard) |
Proven Application Environments
- Automotive Manufacturing: Body-in-white lines, paint shop conveyors, and robotic welding cells using PROFIBUS-DP drives and I/O blocks controlled via SLC 500.
- Food & Beverage Processing: Filling, capping, and packaging lines where SLC 500 PLCs coordinate PROFIBUS-DP distributed I/O and variable-speed drives.
- Water & Wastewater Treatment: Pump station control panels integrating PROFIBUS-DP field instruments with SLC 500 controllers.
- Material Handling & Conveyor Systems: Sortation and palletizing systems requiring deterministic scan cycles across multiple PROFIBUS slave nodes.
- OEM Machine Builders: Retrofit and upgrade projects migrating legacy SLC 500 systems to PROFIBUS-DP fieldbus architectures without controller replacement.
- Process Industries (Chemical / Pharma): Distributed control loops where PROFIBUS-DP field devices report to SLC 500 via the SST-PFB-SLC scanner.
Engineering Advantages
- True Backplane Integration: No external power supply or gateway required — the module draws power from the SLC 500 backplane and maps I/O data directly into the SLC data table.
- GSD-Based Configuration: Full support for standard GSD device description files enables rapid slave device commissioning without proprietary tools.
- Deterministic Scan Cycle: PROFIBUS-DP token-passing protocol ensures predictable, low-jitter data exchange critical for motion and process control.
- Broad Baud Rate Range: Auto-detects network baud rate from 9.6 kbps to 12 Mbps, accommodating both legacy and high-speed PROFIBUS segments.
- Diagnostic Transparency: Module-level and slave-level diagnostics accessible via SLC data table, enabling rapid fault isolation without additional diagnostic hardware.
- Proven Longevity: SST PROFIBUS modules have a multi-decade installed base in global industrial facilities, with extensive third-party support and documentation.
System Architecture & Signal Flow
The SST-PFB-SLC occupies a standard 1746 backplane slot adjacent to the SLC 500 processor. During each PLC scan cycle, the SLC processor reads output data from its output image table and writes it to the SST module via the backplane. The SST module then transmits this data to the configured PROFIBUS-DP slave devices on the fieldbus segment. Simultaneously, slave input data is collected by the SST module and written back to the SLC input image table for the next processor scan.
Configuration is performed offline using SST’s PROFIBUS Configuration Software: the engineer imports GSD files for each slave device, assigns station addresses, maps I/O data, and downloads the configuration to the module. Once commissioned, the module operates autonomously — scanning the PROFIBUS network independently of the SLC scan cycle to maintain real-time fieldbus communication.
Sourcing & Quality Verification
- All SST-PFB-SLC units sourced by Konmask.com are procured through verified industrial distribution channels with full traceability.
- Each unit undergoes visual inspection and functional verification prior to dispatch.
- Original OEM packaging, labels, and documentation are preserved where available.
- Counterfeit risk mitigation: Konmask.com does not source from unverified secondary markets. Serial numbers and firmware revisions are documented per shipment.
- Certificate of conformance (CoC) available upon request for regulated industries.
Procurement Process
- Step 1 — Inquiry: Submit your part number, required quantity, and delivery timeline via the product page or email support@konmask.com.
- Step 2 — Quotation: Konmask.com responds within 1 business day with pricing, lead time, and stock confirmation.
- Step 3 — Order Confirmation: Purchase order or online checkout accepted. Proforma invoice issued for wire transfer payments.
- Step 4 — Quality Check & Dispatch: Unit inspected, packed, and shipped with tracking. DHL / FedEx / SF Express available for international orders.
- Step 5 — After-Sales Support: Technical support available post-delivery for installation and commissioning queries.
Technical FAQ
Q: Which SLC 500 processor models are compatible with the SST-PFB-SLC?
A: The module is compatible with SLC 5/03, 5/04, and 5/05 processors. SLC 5/01 and 5/02 are not supported due to backplane communication limitations.
Q: How many PROFIBUS-DP slaves can the SST-PFB-SLC manage?
A: Up to 125 slave devices per PROFIBUS segment, subject to total I/O data table size constraints (128 words in / 128 words out).
Q: Is the SST-PFB-SLC a PROFIBUS-DP master or slave?
A: It operates exclusively as a Class 1 PROFIBUS-DP Master (scanner). It cannot be configured as a slave device.
Q: What software is required for configuration?
A: SST PROFIBUS Configuration Software (available from SST/Molex). GSD files for slave devices must be imported into the configuration tool. RSLogix 500 is used for SLC ladder logic development but is not required for PROFIBUS configuration.
Q: Can the module be used in a ControlLogix or CompactLogix system?
A: No. The SST-PFB-SLC is designed exclusively for the SLC 500 (1746) backplane. For ControlLogix, refer to the SST-PFB-CLX series.
Q: What is the warranty on this module?
A: Konmask.com provides a 90-day functional warranty on all modules. Extended warranty and exchange programs available — contact support@konmask.com for details.
Q: Is firmware upgrade possible in the field?
A: Firmware updates may be available via SST’s configuration software. Contact Konmask.com technical support for current firmware revision and upgrade procedures.
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