| Actuator |
A device used in machine or process control that responds to one or more control signals to control some aspect of the machine or process. |
| AS-i |
AS-Interface. A field bus designed for actuator-sensor communication. AS-i is endorsed by the AS-International Association and is most often used where actuators and sensors are distributed throughout a machine or building. |
| AS-Interface |
AS-i. A field bus designed for actuator-sensor communication. AS-i is endorsed by the AS-International Association and is most often used where actuators and sensors are distributed throughout a machine or building. |
| AS-Interface cable |
A type of cable used for network communications. AS-Interface cable uses two wires for both data and power. |
| ASIsafe |
The safety version of AS-i that allows the transmission of standard and safety data on the same bus system. |
| CE Mark |
A machine marking that is required by many European countries. A CE mark shows that a machine conforms to the requirements of those countries. |
| Contactor |
A device that uses a small control current to energize or de-energize a load. |
| Controller |
A device used to control some part of a machine or process. A controller is also known as the CPU or processor. |
| CPU |
Central Processing Unit. The main device that processes information and carries out instructions in a PLC. The CPU stores and scans the user program and stores data needed by the user program and other devices and systems. |
| DIN Rail |
A 35 millimeter mounting rail for control components and related devices. |
| Emergency Stop |
E-stop. A pushbutton switch used to stop a machine in an emergency situation. |
| Ergonomic |
Designed to decrease operator discomfort or fatigue and increase productivity. |
| E-stop |
Emergency Stop. A pushbutton switch used to stop a machine in an emergency situation. |
| Ethernet |
A common local area network standard that is the most popular network for office communication. Industrial Ethernet is a form of Ethernet used in manufacturing. |
| Ethernet Switches |
An active Ethernet network component that allows multiple devices to communicate simultaneously at high speeds. |
| European Machinery Directive |
A European Union (EU) directive intended to provide a common level of safety. The European Machinery Directive can be followed regardless of whether or not the machine manufacturer makes machines operated in the EU. |
| Failsafe |
Refers to a device or system that will not cause injury or damage when a failure occurs. |
| Failsafe Motor Starter |
A device that reliably provides motor switching and protection in one unit. |
| FBD |
Function block diagram. A graphical programming language similar in capabilities to ladder diagram programming. |
| Functional Safety |
A category of safety that eliminates unacceptable risk by ensuring that all parts of a machine or system function in a safe manner. |
| HMI |
Human machine interface. A device or system that displays machine or process information and provides a means for entering control information. |
| Human Machine Interface |
HMI. A device or system that displays machine or process information and provides a means for entering control information. |
| I/O |
Input/Output. A device, channel, or module involved with sending and receiving data. |
| Industrial Ethernet |
A version of Ethernet designed for use in factories. Industrial Ethernet uses industrial-grade switching technology to allow devices to communicate simultaneously at high speeds. |
| Input/Output |
I/O. A device, channel, or module involved with sending and receiving data. |
| IWLAN |
Industrial Wireless Local Area Network. A type of wireless network that is designed for use in factories. IWLAN can be used with a PROFINET network. |
| LAD |
Ladder diagram. A graphical programming language originally derived from the diagrams used in electromechanical control circuits. LAD has been expanded to include much more advanced capabilities. |
| Modular Controller |
A type of controller, such as a PLC, that is assembled from separate components that each perform a specific function. A modular design allows the controller to have a structure that meets the needs of a particular application. |
| Module |
An assembly of components designed for perform a specific set of functions. Modules can be added to modular PLCs to meet application requirements for power, input/output, communications, and special functions. |
| Motor Starter Protector |
MSP. A device used in motor control applications that includes a manual switch, a thermal overload relay, and magnetic trip elements for short circuit protection. |
| MSP |
Motor Starter Protector. A device used in motor control applications that includes a manual switch, a thermal overload relay, and magnetic trip elements for short circuit protection. |
| Operator Panel |
The group of controls that allow an operator to control machine components manually. |
| PLC |
Programmable logic controller. A processor-driven device that uses logic-based software to provide electrical control for machines and processes. |
| PROFIBUS DP |
PROFIBUS DP is an open standard fieldbus of PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI). PROFIBUS DP is widely used for master-slave control communications in factory automation. |
| Profile |
A specification covering PROFINET and PROFIBUS configurations developed by a working group established by PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI). |
| PROFINET |
The open Industrial Ethernet standard of PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI), and the leading Industrial Ethernet standard world-wide. |
| PROFIsafe |
An integrated safety technology applicable for both discrete manufacturing and process automation which permits the transmission of standard and safety-related data on a single bus cable. PROFIsafe is a PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI) profile. |
| programmable logic controller |
PLC. A processor-driven device that uses logic-based software to provide electrical control for machines and processes. |
| Rapid Roaming |
A process that ensures fast handover of radio signals between access points and interruption-free roaming times. Rapid Roaming is a basic requirement for mobile operator control and monitoring in safety applications where enabling and emergency stop buttons are used. |
| Redundant |
Refers to a device or system that duplicates or can take over the function of another device or system as a means to increase system reliability. |
| Risk Assessment |
As it applies to the European Machinery Directive, a risk assessment is a required process intended to identify and evaluate all hazards associated with a machine. |
| Safety Evaluation Tool |
A free Siemens online tool that guides the user step by step through an evaluation of the safety functions of a machine and provides a report that can be integrated in the machine’s documentation as proof of functional safety. |
| Safety Integrated |
A comprehensive range of Siemens products that reliably protect people, machines, and the environment. |
| Safety Integrated for Factory Automation |
A scalable range of Siemens safety-related controllers and related products of various designs for factory automation |
| Safety Position Switch |
Designed to reliably signal the position of an item to a safe evaluation unit such as a safety relay or failsafe controller. |
| Safety Relay |
A device used to enhance the safety of a system by providing a reliable means to control other devices. |
| Sensor |
A device that detects a change in a physical condition stimulus and turns it into a signal that can be measured or recorded. Some sensors are used as PLC input devices. |
| STEP 7 Safety Advanced (TIA Portal) |
Engineering software in the TIA Portal used to configure and program SIMATIC failsafe PLCs and related Siemens products. |
| TIA Portal |
Engineering software that is used in all phases of the design, operation, and maintenance of systems that can include PLCs, HMIs, PCs, electronic drives, and related devices. |