Interfaces, Networks and Data Communication for the S7-400
5-3
Automation System S7-400 Configuration and Use
A5E0044271 1-02
5.2 Interfaces
5.2.1 MPI - the Interface with Numerous Functions
What is an interface with multi-point capability?
An interface with multi-point capability allows you to connect multiple devices,
which then can communicate amongst themselves. The abbreviation ”MPI” stands
for ”Multi-Point Interface”.
Characteristics of the MPI Interface
Table 5-1 provides you with an overview of the characteristics of the MPI interface.
Table 5-1 Characteristics of the MPI
Characteristics
Number of connectable devices Maximum 32
connectable devices • S7-300, S7-400
• programming device
• Text display
• Operator panel
Transfer rates 187.5 Kbps to 12 Mbps
Distance between first and last device,
without booster (RS 485 repeater)
Maximum 50 m cable length
Distance between two boosters
(RS 485 repeaters)
Maximum 1100 m cable length
MPI Interface as PROFIBUS DP Interface (Master/Slave)
You can also configure the MPI interface of the CPU as a DP interface. This allows
you to configure a PROFIBUS-DP master system with a DP line of up to 32 slaves
or to use the CPU as a PROFIBUS-DP slave.
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