Product Overview & Datasheet

The Bihl+Wiedemann BWU2602 is an advanced AS-i 3.0 PROFIBUS Safety Gateway designed to integrate standard and safety-related automation data into a PROFIBUS DP network. It serves as a dual-master gateway that combines standard actuator-sensor interface (AS-i) master functions with an integrated Safety Monitor, enabling the seamless connection of safe and non-safe I/O devices up to SIL 3 / PLe in a single compact device.

Technical Parameters Table

⚙️ Operational Modes: Manual and Automatic Switching

• Automatic Operating Mode: The gateway runs cyclically, exchanging standard process data with the PROFIBUS master while simultaneously monitoring safe input circuits (e.g., E-stops, light curtains) via the integrated safety monitor.
• Manual & Configuration Mode: Technicians can use the front-panel LCD and push-buttons—or connect via the configuration software—to address AS-i slaves, configure safety logic matrices, force output states, or upload/download project configurations.
• Bumpless Data Exchange: Automatically manages cyclic data exchanges and diagnostic status polling without interrupting upstream PLC execution loops.

🛑 Emergency Stop (E-Stop) & Safety Considerations

• Safety Monitor Architecture: Features an integrated safety monitor that evaluates safe AS-i slaves independently of the primary PROFIBUS control loop, ensuring deterministic safety responses.
• Safe Output Relays / Safe Communication: Trips safe outputs or safely communicates stop requests across the bus within milliseconds of an interlock break or sensor fault.
• System Recovery: Restarting the safety system after an E-stop event requires clearing the physical hazard, resetting the safety input device, and executing a manual acknowledgment sequence via local push-buttons or PLC command bits.

📐 Mechanical Installation Requirements

• Mounting Method: Designed for standard snap-on installation onto a 35 mm DIN-rail inside a protective control cabinet (minimum IP54 rating recommended).
• Clearance Space: Ensure a minimum of 50 mm of clearance above and below the device housing to allow adequate room for AS-i flat cable piercing units, power taps, and PROFIBUS connectors.
• Thermal Management: Relies on natural convection cooling; maintain internal enclosure ambient operating temperatures within the specified 0∘C to +55∘C threshold.

🔌 Electrical Wiring Guidelines

• Terminal Definitions:
  • AS-i connection via specialized profile cable (yellow/black) using piercing technology.
  • PROFIBUS DP via standard 9-pin D-SUB female port.
  • Auxiliary 24V DC power input via removable screw terminal blocks.
• Wire Size Requirements: Use copper conductors ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 mm2 (20 to 16 AWG) for auxiliary power lines.
• Grounding Specifications: Securely bond the DIN-rail and gateway ground terminal to the main panel earth ground bus to ensure high noise immunity against electromagnetic interference (EMI).

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

• Q: What is the primary advantage of the BWU2602 gateway?
  • A: It combines a standard AS-i 3.0 dual master with a fully integrated Safety Monitor in a single unit, saving cabinet space while merging standard and safe control data onto a PROFIBUS network.
• Q: What software is used to configure the safety logic?
  • A: Safety logic configurations and matrix programming are managed using Bihl+Wiedemann’s proprietary ASIMON configuration software.
• Q: Can this unit handle multiple AS-i networks?
  • A: Yes, the dual-master architecture supports two independent AS-i networks through a single gateway interface.

🔍 Recommended Alternative Series and Models

• Bihl+Wiedemann BWU2700 ASi-3 PROFINET Safety Gateway
• Bihl+Wiedemann BWU3368 ASi-5/ASi-3 EtherNet/IP Safety Gateway
• Siemens SIMATIC ET 200SP AS-i Safety Modules
• Murrelektronik MASI Safety Gateways
• Anybus X-Gateway AS-i to PROFIBUS