SCALANCE TAP104: Nothing lost

New Test Access Port for precise analysis

Siemens is extending its Scalance portfolio for industrial networks to include the new Test Access Port Scalance Tap104. Unlike other network components, rather than rejecting faulty telegrams the Scalance Tap104 enables all data traffic in both directions to be exported for analysis. The new tap supports Fast Ethernet with 10/100 megabits per second and operates at temperatures between -40 and +70 degrees Celsius. It can be integrated into machine and plant networks without interaction. It allows variable mounting and can be used in Zone 2 potentially explosive atmospheres.

Quantity and quality: Particularly given the increasing focus on Big and Smart Data and the move towards cloudbased systems, there’s a lot more to handling data than simply dealing generally with large quantities of information. Of primary importance is ensuring a very high standard of data handling, which makes it vital for the user to be aware of all data traffic passing through the system – including data which can have a negative impact on productivity. This degree of close scrutiny is made possible by the new Scalance Tap104 Test Access Port from Siemens. The Scalance Tap104 allows all data traffic travelling in both directions to be exported. Unlike standard network components, instead of rejecting faulty telegrams occurring in data traffic between machines and plants (horizontal communication) and between lower and higher-level network segments (vertical communication), the device makes even this faulty data available for analysis using standard diagnostic tools such as Wireshark. The tap is integrated without interaction into an existing network, where it remains idle until the moment of data export. If more precise analysis of the exported data is required, this is possible using devices such as the Bus Analyzer Agent complete with the relevant software, which captures and stores the exported data – even data generated in the past. The Scalance Tap104 is equipped with an industry-compatible retaining collar for data communication, and is suitable for control cabinet mounting due to its Simatic S7-1500 design. There are various mounting options available, including attachment to Simatic profile rails or standard rails, and installation in 19 inch control cabinets using additional mounting accessories. Mobile use is also possible. The functional scope of the new tap also includes application in a temperature range of -40 to +70 degrees Celsius and in Zone 2 potentially explosive atmospheres.