The certification of third-party devices for the Powerlink fieldbus system is essential to ensure that all devices in the network are compatible and work reliably. This article describes the steps required for certification, the necessary tests, relevant files and specifications, as well as the application for certification.
Overview of the Certification Steps
1. Necessary Forms, Files, Specifications, and Test Tools
To ensure the conformity of your device and prepare it for Powerlink certification, you will need the following documents and tools, which can be obtained from the B&R homepage (Conformance | B&R Industrial Automation):
- Test tools:
- XDD Checker Tool: Program for checking the conformity of the device description file, including .pdf instructions for using the tool.
- openCONFORMANCE test tool: Software tool for testing the conformity of the third-party device. Instructions for using the tool are available via the tool GUI. B&R only supports the latest version of the test tool.
- Automation Studio: Necessary to conduct the X20 Tests on the B&R MN.
- Test specifications:
- EPSG 310 V-1-0-9 DS.pdf: Detailed test specification for the openCONFORMANCE Test Tool.
- POWERLINK-Certification_Test_Procedure_V1.2.3.pdf: Describes the manual tests (X20 tests) that must be performed on the B&R MN. The required test hardware is listed in the specification. If no corresponding hardware is available, please contact your local B&R office to purchase it.
- Sample program: Required to perform the Multi ASnd test (ExtensionCompatibility2 - from POWERLINK-Certification_Test_Procedure_V1.2.3.pdf).
- Application form: “POWERLINK certification - application form” is required to register for certification.
Note: The B&R EULA applies to all software products available here.
2. Carrying Out the Tests
To apply for certification, the following tests must be passed successfully and the corresponding documents sent to B&R as proof:
- XDD Checker Test Report
- Tool: XDD_Checker_v1.0.1.zip
- openCONFORMANCE Test Report (Basic & Advanced)
- Document: EPSG 310 V-1-0-9 DS.pdf
- Tool: openCONFORMANCE_installer.exe
- Basic Tests: Basic checks of protocol conformity. Check of XDD and firmware.
- Advanced Tests: Advanced tests to check the device behavior in the event of an error.
- X20 Tests on the B&R MN
- Document: POWERLINK-Certification_Test_Procedure_V1.2.3.pdf
- Tools: Automation Studio and B&R hardware for the configuration and execution of these tests.
3. Registration for Certification and Submission of Documents
To register for certification, you must fill out the registration form on the homepage and send it to the B&R POWERLINK Office (powerlink.office@br-automation.com) together with the passed test results. The results will then be verified by B&R.
- Registration forms:
- POWERLINK certification - application form
4. Coordination of a Time Frame for the Implementation of the Certification by B&R
After successful review of the submitted documents, B&R will specify a time frame for the certification of the device. A device sample, including the power supply and the XDD file, must be sent to B&R for this purpose. B&R will verify the test results using the submitted hardware and software at the specified time and issue a POWERLINK certificate if all tests are passed.
The testing of the product to be certified must be carried out in the availability of a qualified technician. This person should be able to answer questions in the event of problems during the certification phase and, if necessary, make minor adjustments to the device (remote). The device samples are then returned by B&R.
The certification of third-party devices for the Powerlink bus system requires careful planning and implementation. However, with the right tools, this process can be efficient and successful. Use the resources provided to ensure your devices meet Powerlink’s high standards.
Resources