GRID45-PN: The Fastest Path to PROFINET Integration The GRID45-PN enables OEMs and device manufacturers to rapidly add PROFINET and other industrial protocol support to their products — without the cost, risk, or delays associated with in-house protocol development. Overview The GRID45-PN is a compact, embedded PROFINET IO module that provides a complete, ready-to-deploy PROFINET IO stack. It allows industrial sensors, actuators, and other devices to communicate directly on a PROFINET network and connect to a PROFINET master PLC or controller — removing the engineering burden of developing and maintaining protocol software within the host firmware. Minimal Hardware Redesign Required Any host processor with a serial (UART) interface can integrate the GRID45-PN with a straightforward PCB redesign. The module fits within a standard RJ45 form factor, minimizing the impact on existing board layouts. Modbus Serial Bridging The GRID45-PN includes both a Modbus serial interface and a PROFINET IO stack. Its firmware can automatically map Modbus RTU/ASCII (or proprietary serial) data for presentation on PROFINET IO, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and BACnet/IP networks. In most cases, products already using Modbus RTU/ASCII over a serial port can become PROFINET IO devices with little to no changes to the host firmware. Offloaded Protocol Processing Operating as a network coprocessor, the GRID45-PN handles all high-speed PROFINET communication interrupts independently, freeing the host processor for application tasks. Reduced Development Overhead Developing, deploying, and maintaining multiple industrial automation protocols is resource-intensive and technically demanding. The GRID45-PN provides built-in protocol expertise and long-term support across the full product lifecycle. Smallest Embedded Gateway in Class The GRID45-PN offers device manufacturers the smallest embedded gateway solution currently available for bridging Modbus and industrial Ethernet protocols. Certification Requirements PROFINET certification is mandatory for all PROFINET devices and controllers. Certification involves conformance testing at a PI Test Lab (PITL). Upon successful completion, a certificate is issued by PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI). Additionally, a PROFINET Vendor ID (VID), a unique identifier assigned by PI to each device manufacturer, is required to deploy this module. For full certification details, refer to the PROFINET Product Testing & Certification Guide. GRID45 Product Family: Learn more about the GRID45 product family, the ultimate multi-protocol solution for industrial automation. *protocol modules sold separately Technical Support Grid Connect provides comprehensive technical support for the GRID45-PN, delivered by the engineers who designed the product. Phone and live chat support are available during regular business hours.
