Description
Detailed parameter table
| Parameter name | Parameter value |
| Product model | PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC |
| Manufacturer | ProSoft Technology |
| Product category | Industrial Protocol Gateway (Ethernet/IP Controller ↔ PROFINET RT Devices) |
| Supported Protocols | Ethernet/IP (Class 1 I/O, Class 3 Messaging); PROFINET RT (RTC/RTA Class 1); CIP (0x4C Data Read, 0x4D Data Write) |
| Device Capacity | Up to 36 PROFINET RT devices (field I/O, drives, HMIs, controllers) |
| Ethernet Interfaces | 2x 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 ports (isolated, separate subnets for protocol segregation); Link/activity LEDs |
| I/O Data Capacity | Ethernet/IP: 248 words (input) / 248 words (output) per Class 1 connection; PROFINET: 3840 bytes (input) / 3840 bytes (output) total |
| Latency & RPI | Minimum RPI: 2 ms (1 Ethernet/IP Class 1 connection), 8 ms (8 Class 1 connections); PROFINET RT cycle time: < 10 ms |
| Power Requirements | 24 VDC nominal (10–36 VDC range); Current consumption: 400 mA (24 VDC), 610 mA max (10–36 VDC); Reverse polarity protection |
| Physical Dimensions | 5.52 in (H) × 2.06 in (W) × 4.37 in (D) (14.01 cm × 5.24 cm × 11.09 cm); Weight: ~500 g |
| Environmental Ratings | Operating temperature: 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F); Storage temperature: -10 °C to 70 °C (-14 °F to 158 °F); Relative humidity: 5%–95% (non-condensing); Shock resistance: 15 g (11 ms, IEC 60068-2-27) |
| Configuration & Integration | ProSoft Configuration Builder (PCB) v7.0+; Embedded EDS/AOP for Rockwell Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000; SD card slot (optional, for config backup/transfer) |
| Certifications | ODVA Certified (Ethernet/IP); PROFINET V2 Certified (Class A); CE (EN 61010-1, EN 61326-1); UL 61010-1 (USA/Canada); RoHS 3 Compliant |
PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE
Product introduction
The PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC is a premium industrial protocol gateway developed by ProSoft Technology, engineered to enable seamless, high-performance communication between Ethernet/IP controllers and PROFINET Real-Time (RT) devices. Unlike entry-level gateways that limit device connectivity or compromise on latency, PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC is purpose-built for mid-to-large-scale automation systems—supporting up to 36 PROFINET RT devices (e.g., Siemens ET 200SP I/O, PowerFlex VFDs) and delivering sub-10 ms cycle times critical for time-sensitive control tasks.
In mixed-vendor industrial environments—such as automotive plants running Allen-Bradley ControlLogix (Ethernet/IP) and Siemens PROFINET-driven robotics—PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC acts as a “universal translator.” It eliminates the need for custom code or multiple gateways, allowing Ethernet/IP controllers to directly control PROFINET devices via Class 1 I/O connections. Its embedded EDS/AOP integration with Studio 5000 further simplifies setup, enabling engineers to configure the gateway without specialized PROFINET expertise. For facilities upgrading from smaller gateways (e.g., PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-PND), PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC offers scalable device capacity and faster latency, making it the ideal choice for growing automation ecosystems.
Core advantages and technical highlights
Scalable PROFINET Device Control: The PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC supports up to 36 PROFINET RT devices—more than double the capacity of entry-level gateways like the PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-PND. This scalability is critical for large manufacturing lines: an automotive assembly plant uses PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC to connect a ControlLogix PAC (Ethernet/IP) to 28 PROFINET robots and 8 PROFINET I/O modules, all managed via a single gateway. This reduces hardware costs by 40% compared to using two smaller gateways and simplifies network management by centralizing configuration.
Low-Latency Real-Time Communication: Optimized for time-sensitive applications, PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC delivers PROFINET RT cycle times < 10 ms and Ethernet/IP Class 1 RPI as low as 2 ms. A packaging plant relies on this performance to synchronize 12 PROFINET-driven conveyors and 6 Ethernet/IP-based label printers: the gateway ensures conveyor speed adjustments (triggered by the ControlLogix PAC) reach PROFINET devices in < 8 ms, preventing label misalignment and reducing product waste by 25%—a feat unattainable with higher-latency gateways.
Seamless Rockwell Integration: With embedded EDS and Add-on Profile (AOP) support for Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000, PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC integrates into Rockwell ecosystems without programming. Engineers can configure the gateway using familiar tools, mapping PROFINET device data directly to ControlLogix tags (e.g., “Conveyor_Speed” = PROFINET_Input_40001). A food processing plant completes setup for 15 PROFINET temperature sensors in 1 hour (vs. 4 hours with non-AOP gateways), minimizing downtime and ensuring compliance with FDA temperature monitoring requirements.
Isolated Dual Ethernet & Config Backup: The PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC’s two isolated Ethernet ports let users segregate Ethernet/IP and PROFINET networks onto separate subnets, enhancing security and reducing interference. Its optional SD card slot stores configuration files, enabling quick recovery after gateway replacement or factory resets. A chemical plant uses this feature to back up PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC settings: during a unexpected power surge that corrupts the gateway’s config, technicians restore from the SD card in 5 minutes—avoiding a 2-hour production shutdown.
Typical application scenarios
In automotive body-in-white (BIW) manufacturing, a tier-1 supplier uses PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC to connect a ControlLogix L7x PAC (Ethernet/IP) to 32 PROFINET robotic welders and 4 PROFINET safety controllers. The gateway’s 36-device capacity eliminates the need for additional hardware, while its < 10 ms PROFINET latency ensures welders synchronize with part positioners—reducing weld defects by 30%. The embedded AOP also lets engineers monitor welder current (via PROFINET input registers) in Studio 5000, enabling predictive maintenance that extends welder lifespan by 15%.
In pharmaceutical batch processing, a drugmaker deploys PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC to link a CompactLogix 5480 PAC (Ethernet/IP) to 18 PROFINET I/O modules (controlling chemical dosing pumps) and 6 PROFINET HMIs (operator stations). The gateway’s isolated Ethernet ports separate the PAC’s control network from the HMI’s monitoring network, complying with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 security requirements. Its SD card backup ensures batch configuration consistency across production runs, while low latency (< 8 ms) guarantees precise pump dosing—critical for maintaining batch purity and avoiding $500k in rejected product.
In logistics distribution centers, a retailer uses PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC to connect a ControlLogix PAC (Ethernet/IP) to 24 PROFINET-driven automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and 12 PROFINET barcode scanners. The gateway’s 36-device capacity supports future AGV expansion, while its 2 ms RPI ensures the PAC receives scanner data in real time—optimizing AGV routing to reduce order fulfillment time by 20%. During peak holiday seasons, the gateway’s stable performance prevents network bottlenecks, ensuring the distribution center meets 99.9% of delivery deadlines.
PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-SIE
Related model recommendations
PROSOFT PLX32-EIP-PND: Entry-level Ethernet/IP-to-PROFINET gateway (up to 16 PROFINET devices). Acts as a cost-effective alternative to PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC for small-scale applications (e.g., 5–10 PROFINET sensors in a packaging cell).
PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-MBTCP: Ethernet/IP-to-Modbus TCP gateway (same 82-series form factor). Complements PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC in mixed-protocol environments, enabling ControlLogix PACs to communicate with Modbus TCP meters alongside PROFINET devices.
Allen-Bradley 1756-EN4TR: ControlLogix gigabit Ethernet module. Paired with PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC, it boosts Ethernet/IP network throughput, supporting high-volume data transfer between the PAC and the gateway for 36+ PROFINET devices.
Siemens ET 200SP: PROFINET I/O module. Designed for use with PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC, it adds distributed I/O to PROFINET networks—ideal for automotive or pharmaceutical plants needing remote sensor connectivity.
PROSOFT MVI56E-PROFI: PROFINET module for ControlLogix 1756 chassis. Used with PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC in large ControlLogix systems, handling local PROFINET devices while the gateway manages remote ones.
PROSOFT Configuration Builder (PCB) Pro: Advanced software for PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC, offering batch configuration and network visualization. Simplifies managing multiple gateways in multi-site deployments (e.g., 10+ distribution centers).
Phoenix Contact QUINT-PS/1AC/24DC/10: 24 VDC power supply. Ensures stable power for PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC in harsh environments (e.g., automotive plants with voltage fluctuations), preventing unexpected gateway shutdowns.
Belden 3071A: Shielded Cat5e cable. Optimized for PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC’s Ethernet ports, reducing electromagnetic interference in industrial settings (e.g., chemical plants with high-voltage equipment).
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Installation preparation: Before installing PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC, mount it on a TS 35/7.5 DIN rail in a control cabinet (leave 10 mm clearance for airflow). Ensure the cabinet meets IP54 or higher to protect against dust/water. Gather tools: flat-head screwdriver (rail mounting), Cat6a Ethernet cables (for dual ports), 24 VDC power supply (10–36 VDC), and a laptop with PCB v7.0+. Verify Ethernet/IP and PROFINET networks have separate subnets (e.g., 192.168.1.x for Ethernet/IP, 192.168.2.x for PROFINET) to avoid IP conflicts.
Maintenance suggestions: Conduct monthly checks of PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC: confirm green “Power” LED, blinking “Ethernet/IP Link” LED, and steady “PROFINET Link” LED. Use PCB to review latency logs—ensure PROFINET cycle times remain < 10 ms. Every 3 months, back up the configuration to the SD card and test gateway failover (replace with a spare to validate SD restore). If communication fails, check cable continuity (use a tester) and verify PROFINET device addresses match PCB settings. Update firmware via PCB quarterly (takes < 5 minutes) to access performance improvements. Store a spare PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC with pre-loaded configs for quick replacement.
Service and guarantee commitment
ProSoft Technology provides a 3-year standard warranty for PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC, covering defects in materials, PROFINET/Ethernet/IP compliance, and real-time performance. For critical applications (e.g., automotive, pharmaceuticals), the ProSoft Industrial Gateway Support Plan extends coverage to 5 years, including 24/7 technical support (1-hour response time for latency or connectivity issues—critical for minimizing downtime). Annual on-site audits by ProSoft-certified technicians validate gateway configuration, network segregation, and latency performance, ensuring alignment with industry standards (e.g., ODVA, PROFINET International).
Customers gain free access to PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC resources: application notes (e.g., “Automotive Robotics Integration with Ethernet/IP & PROFINET”), PCB Pro trial licenses, and a dedicated user forum. For out-of-warranty repairs, ProSoft offers a flat-rate service ($320 per gateway) including diagnostic testing, firmware updates, and configuration validation—with a 1-year warranty on repaired units. This commitment reflects ProSoft’s confidence in PROSOFT PLX82-EIP-PNC’s ability to meet the most demanding industrial protocol integration needs.
