Unified Access to Field Devices in PROFINET and PROFIBUS Networks

With smartLink HW-PN V1.04, users gain controller-independent access to PROFINET networks and connected PROFIBUS devices via the integrated PROFINET/PROFIBUS proxy standard.

Version 1.04 now offers seamless support for AMS Device Manager and ABB FIM. This makes smartLink HW-PN a universal access point for efficient and cross-vendor asset management. With this release, Softing Industrial Automation continues its strategy of consistently simplifying the integration of field devices into digital maintenance processes.

smartLink HW-PN can be easily integrated into existing asset management systems without requiring any changes to networks or control programs. With the FDI communication server interface based on OPC UA, device and diagnostic data are provided securely and in a standardized way. This enables companies to implement plant asset management centrally, efficiently, and independently of specific manufacturers.

Extended Compatibility and Future-Proof Design

Beyond the expanded tool support, version 1.04 improves compatibility with modern network components. The new firmware now supports, among others, the Pepperl+Fuchs APL Switch PA Proxy, enabling access to Ethernet-APL and PROFIBUS-PA devices. This makes smartLink HW-PN a future-ready solution for hybrid process networks and a key enabler for the gradual transition to Ethernet-APL architectures.

Availability

The updated firmware for smartLink HW-PN is now available through Softing Industrial’s worldwide distribution network.

Presentation at SPS 2025 in Nuremberg

At SPS Smart Production Solutions 2025 in Nuremberg (November 25–27, 2025), Softing Industrial will present the new features of smartLink HW-PN V1.04 in Hall 5, Booth 258.