Product Overview

The SST-PFB-CLX is a PROFIBUS communication scanner designed for Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC systems. It allows a ControlLogix controller to communicate with PROFIBUS field devices such as drives, remote I/O stations, instrumentation, and other automation equipment. The module can operate as a PROFIBUS DP Master and, depending on configuration and firmware, can also support slave functionality. The PROFIBUS product database identifies it as a DP Master link/gateway for ControlLogix, supporting standard PROFIBUS baud rates up to 12 Mbaud.

For legacy ControlLogix installations, this type of communication interface is particularly useful when an existing PROFIBUS network must remain in service without replacing the PLC platform. It occupies a single ControlLogix chassis slot and handles PROFIBUS protocol processing independently of the main controller.

Technical Specifications — SST-PFB-CLX

The official PROFIBUS product database identifies the unit as a PROFIBUS DP Master for ControlLogix. Published technical documentation also specifies support for DP-V1 Class 1 and Class 2 master functionality on the RLL generation and substantial cyclic I/O data capacity.

SST SST-PFB-CLX

Key Features and Benefits — SST-PFB-CLX

• PROFIBUS DP connectivity for ControlLogix
• Supports standard PROFIBUS transmission rates
• Independent onboard PROFIBUS processing
• Single-slot ControlLogix installation
• GSD-based slave configuration
• Suitable for drives and distributed I/O
• Supports industrial PLC-to-PLC communication
• Useful for maintaining legacy PROFIBUS networks
• Configuration can be stored in onboard flash memory

One practical advantage is that PROFIBUS network processing is handled by the communication module rather than being implemented entirely through the ControlLogix CPU. This makes it well suited to established systems containing a significant amount of PROFIBUS field equipment.

Related Models

SST-PFB-CLX-RLL: Later revision of the ControlLogix PROFIBUS scanner, supporting larger configurable I/O data areas and DP-V1 functionality.

ProSoft PTQ-PDPMV1: A later ProSoft PROFIBUS communication solution used for integrating PROFIBUS networks with compatible Rockwell platforms.

Allen-Bradley 1756 ControlLogix: The PLC platform in which the scanner is installed.

SST PROFIBUS Configuration Tool: Configuration software used to define PROFIBUS master parameters and connected slave devices.

Installation and Maintenance — SST-PFB-CLX

Before replacement, save the existing PROFIBUS configuration, station addresses, baud rate, GSD files, I/O mappings, and ControlLogix module configuration. Confirm that the replacement firmware is compatible with the existing application.

Check the PROFIBUS cable, shielding, connector, termination, and node addresses before diagnosing the scanner itself. A duplicated station address or incorrect termination can produce communication faults that resemble a failed module.

After installation, verify the ControlLogix module status, PROFIBUS master diagnostics, slave availability, and cyclic I/O data. Personally, I would keep a copy of every GSD file with the PLC project backup; it can save considerable time when reconstructing a legacy PROFIBUS network.

Product Warranty — SST-PFB-CLX

Warranty coverage depends on supplier, equipment condition, and purchase agreement. For new-old-stock, surplus, or refurbished inventory, confirm the exact hardware revision, firmware version, PROFIBUS interface condition, functional-test results, and warranty period before purchase.

The SST-PFB-CLX should be specified together with its firmware and ControlLogix application requirements. For older installations, matching the scanner revision and preserving the original PROFIBUS configuration are important parts of a controlled replacement.