PROFIBUS DP Network Interface Module Type 7 (NIM-7)

With the introduction of our new product line (Chameleon+), 2023 (or while supplies last) marks the end of production for legacy Chameleon (EOL Announcement). We will continue to provide technical support on all EOL products. In addition, we will continue to repair the EOL products for as long as replacement parts can be acquired.

Features and Benefits

  • Can be configured as PROFIBUS DP Master or Slave
  • High-Performance Dual-Processor Architecture
  • Network Configuration Tools Integrated in Design Pad G3
  • Multiple NIMs Can Be Combined to Form Gateway, Bridge, Routing, and/or Redundant Connection Functionality
  • Selectable Baud Rates from 9.6 Kbps up to 12 Mbps
  • -40°C to +65°C (-40°F to +149°F) Operating Range
  • MIL-STD-901D Grade A for High Impact Shock
  • MIL-STD-167B for Vibration
  • MIL-STD-461E for Electro-Magnetic Interference
  • Supports Hot Swapping
  • Master and Slave Certified by the PNO

The Chameleon PROFIBUS Network Interface Module (NIM-7) provides seamless connectivity to PROFIBUS DP compliant devices. It features a high-performance 32-bit RISC processor with multi-tasking RTOS to execute computationally-intensive applications and to interface with other modules in the Chameleon family. Network message processing is offloaded to a co-processor containing an integrated Siemens ASPC-2 PROFIBUS controller.

Chameleon’s multi-processor architecture allows considerable flexibility in the use of NIM-7 modules. They can serve as a standalone high-end remote I/O application processor node on a PROFIBUS network with connectivity to other inexpensive (and computationally-limited) slave devices. They can be arranged with other Chameleon I/O modules to create a high-end Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) solution. Or, they can be combined with other Chameleon networking modules to create a gateway between multi-protocol network segments or to create a bridge between multiple PROFIBUS segments (using the internal high-speed backplane to transfer data between modules). For example, the NIM-7 module can operate alongside a NIM-1 Modbus module, or NIM-6 LonTalk module, or NIM-2 Ethernet module executing a supported IP protocol (e.g. EtherNet/IP or PROFINET) to transfer data between networks.

You program the NIM-7 with the Design Pad graphical configuration tool. Design Pad G3 enables you to create sophisticated remote control, local control, monitoring, and/or network message handling applications without prior programming experience. It also contains an integrated PROFIBUS network configuration tool with GSD import, as well as integrated off-line device network simulation capabilities for both Fairmount Automation devices and third-party products.

The NIM-7 operating-mode (master or slave) is software-configured—the module takes on the selected role during its initialization sequence. Using the same module for both functions can provide measurable logistics benefits and reduce procurement, maintenance, and training costs.

The firmware in all Chameleon modules can be updated in the field as new software features are released. For example, new PROFIBUS extensions (e.g., DPv2) could be added to the NIM-7 as they become available in the future, thereby protecting today’s hardware investment from obsolescence.

As with all Chameleon modules, NIM-7 units are hot-swappable: when a new module is inserted into a Chameleon node, its neighboring modules automatically transfer the program it is to execute—there is no need to shut off the power or to detach connectors. They also provide unequaled ruggedness. They are specifically designed for sustained operation in severe environments, including those characterized by extreme shock, vibration, electro-magnetic interference, temperature, and/or humidity. The fully-sealed enclosure (sealing end-caps not pictured) allows the module to operate while submerged.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS
Operating Ambient Temperature Range -40°C to 65°C
Storage/Transport Ambient Temperature Range -40°C to 85°C
High Impact Shock MIL-STD-901D, Grade A
Mechanical Vibration MIL-STD-167B, 0-50Hz
Electro-Magnetic Interference MIL-STD-461E
Facial/Housing Protection NEMA 1,2,4,4X,5,6,12,12K,13
   
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Maximum Power Consumption 4W
Main CPU 33 MHz 32-Bit ARM Core
Memory 1 MB SRAM, 1MB Non-Volatile Flash
Network Capacity 125 PROFIBUS DP Devices
Baud Rate Standard PROFIBUS Rates up to 12Mbps
Signal Electrical Isolation from Control Circuitry Opto-isolated, 1500 VDC Minimum
Biasing Switchable 390Ω high and low side
Termination Switchable 220Ω
External Voltage Source Isolated 5 VDC, 12mA
Supported Cable Diameters Two glands 0.24”-0.47”; two glands 0.16”-0.31”
Supported Wire Gauges 16-28 AWG
   
PROFIBUS PROTOCOL
Operating Modes Class 1 Master or Slave
Controller Siemens ASPC-2
Version Support DPV0, DPV1 Extensions
Extensions SYNC, FREEZE, ALARMS, DIAGNOSTICS, Class 2 Services, MPI Functions
Process Data Size    
  Master Mode Slave Mode

Input Block
Output Block

3584 Bytes
3584 Bytes
244 Bytes*
244 Bytes*
 

*Limit of 368 Bytes max combined input and output process data sizes for slave mode

   
OPERATOR INTERFACE
PROFIBUS System Status Readout One two-color (red/green) Indicator
Network Activity Readout One two-color (red/green) Indicator
Module Status Readout One three-color (red/yellow/green) Indicator
IR Wireless Interface 115 kbps SIR
   
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Weight 1.3 lbs
Front Panel Dimensions 2.5” W x 6” L
Enclosure Height 3″ H

The following part numbers can be used when ordering the PROFIBUS DP RS-485 Network Interface Module Type 7 (NIM-7).

Fairmount Part Number Description
01012-024 NIM-7 with Gray Enclosure
01012-324 NIM-7 with Black Enclosure (without Stuffing Tubes)
11057-200 NIM-7 Active Board and Gray Cover
11057-250 NIM-7 Active Board and Black Cover
01014-024 NIM-7 Half-Size Gray Enclosure with Wiring Hub Assembly
01014-324 NIM-7 Half-Size Black Enclosure and Wiring Hub Assembly (without Stuffing Tubes)
11058-100 NIM-7 Wiring Hub Assembly