Introducing DNP3 Communication Protocol

Dear Community,

We have recently expanded our portfolio with the DNP3 communication protocol. The DNP3 protocol is widely used in process automation systems for communication between SCADA masters and RTUs (Remote Terminal Units)/IEDs (Intelligent Electronic Devices).

Key Features

Compared to the commonly used Modbus, DNP3 communication offers:

  • Greater efficiency as it transmits only changes.
  • Robustness for harsh environments due to its error-handling mechanisms.
  • Support for time-stamped data points.
  • Capability to transmit large data volumes over long distances.
  • Compliance with current cybersecurity standards through the implementation of the SAv6 extension.
  • Additional information is available in the B&R Online Help. Implementation details are provided in the DNP3 Device Profile chapter.

Requirements

  • Requires 1x license 1TCDNP3.00-00 per controller. This is a fair-use license.
  • The protocol is implemented using the CpDnp3 library.

Example

The Getting Started section of the CpDnp3 library help provides a step-by-step description of how to create a sample DNP3 server (Outstation).

Q&A

  • What version of AS is supported?
    • The library can be used in both AS4 and AS6.
  • What targets are supported?
    • The library can run on any B&R PLC.
  • Can a client be implemented using the library?
    • No, the current version of the library supports only the server (Outstation).
  • What version of Secure Authentication is supported?
    • The current version of the library does not support the Secure Authentication feature.
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