Skip to main content

Overview

PROFIdrive is the standard Profile for drive technology that uses PROFIBUS and PROFINET for communication between motion or positioning controllers and end devices.

It enables drives and controllers from different manufacturers to be connected in an integrated and straightforward way to solve a range of motion challenges. The solution is based on integrating motion control functionality within PLC sequencing logic. The application processes are distributed between drive components and the controller. PROFINET and PROFIBUS can provide the link between these devices.

PROFIdrive defines 6 different classes of application, covering the vast majority of needs. It establishes a basic set of access mechanisms but leaves a great deal of flexibility open to the vendors during implementation.

Like PROFIsafe, PROFIdrive offers similar functionality with both PROFINET and PROFIBUS. Almost identical engineering and design approaches mean that similar strategies, equipment and skills can be employed. This reduces costs plant-wide.