New DeviceNet Analyzer from Balluff

Analysis, Monitoring and Maintenance of DeviceNet Equipment

With their new DeviceNet Analyzer Balluff offers an especially powerful tool for analysis, startup, monitoring and maintenance of DeviceNet/CANbus equipment. These tools are aimed at maintenance personnel, integrators and expert users, in other words anyone who needs verified information about the function status of their DeviceNet system. Preventive maintenance is a particular focus of the DeviceNet tester.

The wiring test performed by the analyzer allows errors and weaknesses such as incorrect cable types and lengths, short circuits, cable breaks and defective connections to be detected already in the installation phase. Analysis of the bus physics before or during startup is another main area of application. Here the signal edge steepness, signal-to-noise ratio and telegrams having poor signal quality can be detected for each node, indicating the possible causes such as missing or too many bus terminations, defective bus drivers, and excessively long bus or stub lines. The result is not only assurance that specifications are maintained, but also optimum signal quality.

Later, while the system is actually running, a comparison with previous measurements can be performed at regular intervals or continuously using an online function. The DeviceNet Analyzer stores all the measurement and log data for the monitored system. Gradual loss of quality, for example from cable wear, no longer remains hidden. Preventive maintenance then reduces costs and saves time compared with a sudden equipment failure.

The offered set arms the user for any eventuality. Balluff provides the analyzer in a rugged case with a complete set of high-quality DeviceNet accessories designed for harsh everyday conditions. Since all the needed components such as adapters, adapter cable, Tconnectors and bus termination resistors are included, the user is ready to hit the ground running. The analyzer incorporates a USB port for connecting to a PC or laptop. Operation is highly convenient thanks to user-friendly PC software.