Anybus Communicator legacy mode

07 Nov 2023 at 23:00
By Magnus Rönn
Anybus

Easier replacement with legacy mode

Are you looking to streamline your gateway replacement process without causing production downtime or extensive reprogramming? Anybus Communicator's legacy mode for PROFINET, PROFIBUS, and Modbus TCP provides an innovative solution to this challenge, allowing you to transition to the next-generation Anybus Communicator seamlessly. In this article, we will explain how legacy mode works and its benefits.

This is legacy mode

Legacy mode can be activated during network configuration in the web user interface using the latest firmware release. Once enabled, the next-generation Anybus Communicator behaves like a Communicator Classic or X-gateway towards the PLC. Notably, there's no need to modify the GSDML/GSD file, and you can continue to use the Anybus addressing mode on Modbus TCP. This feature significantly expedites the replacement process and enables you to use the next-generation Anybus Communicator as a drop-in replacement, true to its name. Legacy mode is available for all Anybus Communicators running PROFINET, PROFIBUS, or Modbus TCP. We've introduced some changes in diagnostic functions and acyclic data handling to align the Communicator Classic and the Communicator.

Benefits of legacy mode

Reduced Downtime: Minimize production disruptions during Anybus Communicator replacement.

Seamless Transition: The new Anybus Communicator smoothly integrates with your existing setup, preserving your investment in legacy systems.

No GSD File Changes: Eliminates the need for GSDML/GSD file modifications, simplifying the setup process.

Drop-In Replacement: Upgrade to the latest Anybus Communicator without extensive reprogramming or configuration changes.

About the Anybus Communicator

The new generation Anybus Communicators provide an even better and easier way to connect your device to the major industrial Ethernet networks as well as PROFIBUS. These products will co-exist with the Communicator Classic range or to the latest Greenfield installations, as well as existing Brownfield systems.

Learn more about our Network Gateways