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The provided document is an operating manual for the VAHLE SMGX-System, an Electronic Slotted Microwave Guide Extreme. This system is designed for interference-free data transmission in industrial environments, particularly for automated conveyor systems used both indoors and outdoors. It is specifically tailored to meet the demanding requirements of rail-guided automation technology, such as cranes, and the timing needs of PROFINET / PROFIsafe IEN protocols.
The SMGX communication system provides a mobile communication interface that is forcibly guided along the SMGX rail. It facilitates a communication link between a stationary segment interface (SMGM-SI) and mobile device interfaces (SMGM-DI). This functionality is comparable to a cable-connected Ethernet connection, offering data transmission with specific latency times. Due to an asymmetrical bandwidth distribution during transmission, the system can handle large amounts of data, such as video signals, from the mobile to the stationary side.
The system operates as an OSI model layer 2 (data link layer) with switch functionality, meaning it handles data framing, error detection, and physical addressing. It is optimized for PROFINET and PROFIsafe networks, recognizing and transmitting PROFINET/IO protocols with RT (Real-Time) priority. Other protocols, typically prioritized via VLAN tags, are subordinate to the RT priority. The minimum possible PROFINET-IO / PROFIsafe cycle is 16 ms, or 8 ms for advanced modules. For EtherNet/IP, the minimum RPI (Request Packet Interval) is 16 ms, and for CIP Safety, it is 50 ms. Only unmanaged switches should be used within the SMGM network structure.
The SMGM/X system also supports a mirror port function, allowing incoming and/or outgoing traffic from one port to be mirrored to another. This feature, configurable via the ServiceTool (version 1.9.0 or higher), helps in determining the data flow through the system without affecting the original port's traffic.
Data prioritization is a key feature, with the system offering five queues: Real-Time (highest priority), Voice, Video, Best Effort, and Background (lowest priority). This prioritization can be based on Ether-Type, PCP bits from the TCI field of the VLAN tag, Frame ID of a PN-IO frame, IP precedence bits from the TOS field of an IP packet, or IP-Port. PROFINET frames (Ether-Type 0x8892) are assigned to the RT queue if the L2 priority is ≥ 4 or if specific frame IDs are used. IP frames can be prioritized based on predefined fieldbus protocols (e.g., BCC/UDP, EtherNet/IP, Modbus) or up to two custom UDPv4 and TCPv4 protocols. If no explicit L2 or L3 priority is assigned, the 802.1d priority is used, mapping to BE-Queue, BK-Queue, VI-Queue, or VO-Queue based on the value.
The SMGM module, central to the SMGX system, has the following specifications:
The SMGX system is designed for robust and reliable data transmission in challenging industrial environments. Its encapsulated hollow-chamber profiles ensure interference-free operation. The system can be mounted within or on an EHB profile or other suitable support profiles, and it can be integrated with other Vahle systems. For outdoor use, the rail opening must always face downwards to prevent water ingress and allow condensation to drain.
Different SMGM module variants are available, including eRTG, Standard, LITE, and Advanced systems, each supporting a specific number of participants and communication cycles. The SMGM-RU (Replacement Unit) acts as a universal replacement unit, capable of adopting the configuration of any other interface by simply inserting the appropriate SD card.
LED status indicators on the SMGM modules provide visual feedback on the system's operational status, including power supply, system status/error, SMG interface status, IO status, and Ethernet port link/activity. These indicators are crucial for commissioning and troubleshooting.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the system's operational capability and to prevent malfunctions and unplanned downtimes. The manual outlines a comprehensive maintenance schedule:
All screw connections must adhere to specified torques. The use of original VAHLE HF cables is mandatory to ensure proper system function and shielding against interfering radiation. Unused antenna inputs must be terminated with the SMGM-XB-QLS-EA resistor. SD card replacement involves disconnecting power, removing the HF cover, extracting the old SD card, inserting the new one, reattaching the cover, and restoring power. SD cards should be labeled for proper identification.
The SMG ServiceTool (version 1.9.0 or higher) is a vital diagnostic tool, offering features such as querying SMG status, firmware updates, level measurements at mobile participants, graphic display of level measurements, results reports, event logging, module search via IP address, communication settings, and configuration of ADV modules. It also provides SNMP monitoring capabilities, supporting various MIBs (Management Information Bases) to access system information, status, statistics, and connection details of the HF interfaces.
General| Brand | Vahle |
|---|---|
| Model | SMGX-SYSTEM |
| Category | Industrial Equipment |
| Language | English |
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