Product Overview

The Siemens 6AG1620-0AA00-7AA0 is a SIPLUS PN/CAN LINK Communication Module used to connect PROFINET-based automation systems with CAN-based devices and networks. It provides a communication path between the Siemens PROFINET environment and CAN bus equipment, making it useful when different field-level communication technologies need to operate within the same control architecture.

The module is particularly useful in machines and plants where a PROFINET controller needs to exchange data with existing CAN-based equipment. Instead of replacing CAN devices, the communication link allows their data to be integrated into a PROFINET-oriented automation system.

As a SIPLUS component, the module is suited to applications requiring the environmental characteristics associated with the SIPLUS product range. Typical service scenarios include integrating legacy CAN equipment, connecting specialized CAN devices, and maintaining mixed-network automation installations.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

• SIPLUS PN/CAN LINK communication module.
• Connects PROFINET-based control systems with CAN-based devices.
• Suitable for mixed-network automation architectures.
• Allows existing CAN equipment to be integrated into a PROFINET environment.
• Useful for machine and plant communication where CAN devices remain in service.
• Supports a dedicated communication link rather than replacing the connected CAN equipment.
• Suitable for retrofit and modernization projects involving different network technologies.
• SIPLUS construction for applications requiring the environmental characteristics of the SIPLUS product range.
• Compact communication solution for cabinet-mounted automation systems.

Working Principle

The 6AG1620-0AA00-7AA0 operates as a communication link between two different industrial network environments.

On the PROFINET side, the module communicates with the Siemens automation controller and exchanges configured process or communication data. On the CAN side, it communicates with connected CAN devices and transfers the required information between the two network domains.

In a typical installation, a PLC or PROFINET controller sends or receives data through the PN/CAN LINK. The module handles the communication path toward the CAN network, allowing CAN devices to participate in the larger automation system without requiring a direct PROFINET interface.

This arrangement is useful when a machine contains CAN-based drives, controllers, sensors, or other devices that must exchange information with a modern PROFINET control system.

Role in a SIPLUS PROFINET/CAN Control Architecture

The communication module sits between the PROFINET controller and the CAN network, acting as the interface between the two communication layers.

Industrial Applications

Installation and Maintenance

1. Confirm the network architecture — Determine which PROFINET controller and CAN devices will communicate through the module.
2. Check the communication requirements — Verify the required CAN and PROFINET configuration before commissioning.
3. Install the module correctly — Mount the communication module according to the applicable Siemens installation arrangement.
4. Connect the PROFINET side — Establish the network connection between the PN/CAN LINK and the PROFINET control system.
5. Connect the CAN network — Wire the CAN interface according to the requirements of the connected CAN devices and network topology.
6. Check CAN termination — Make sure the CAN network has the appropriate termination arrangement for the actual installation.
7. Verify network wiring — Inspect cables, connectors, shielding, and grounding before powering the system.
8. Configure the PROFINET system — Add and configure the communication module within the controller’s hardware configuration.
9. Configure CAN communication — Set the required CAN-side communication parameters and device data according to the connected equipment.
10. Check diagnostics — Review module and network status after commissioning to identify communication errors.
11. Monitor data exchange — Confirm that the required information is transferred correctly between the PROFINET controller and CAN devices.
12. Record the configuration — Keep the network configuration, connected-device information, and maintenance records available for future service work.

Compatible System Components

Recommended Related Models

Key Advantages

• Provides a communication path between PROFINET and CAN networks.
• Allows CAN equipment to remain in a modernized PROFINET architecture.
• Suitable for mixed-network machine designs.
• Useful for retrofit and legacy-device integration.
• Reduces the need to replace existing CAN-based equipment solely because of a controller network upgrade.
• Supports centralized communication between different industrial network environments.
• SIPLUS version for applications requiring the corresponding environmental characteristics.

Technical FAQs

What is Siemens 6AG1620-0AA00-7AA0 used for?

The 6AG1620-0AA00-7AA0 is a SIPLUS PN/CAN LINK Communication Module used to connect PROFINET-based automation systems with CAN-based devices.

Can the module connect a Siemens PROFINET controller to CAN equipment?

Yes. Its primary role is to provide a communication link between the PROFINET environment and CAN network devices.

Why would a machine use a PN/CAN communication link?

It is useful when a machine has existing CAN-based equipment but the main automation controller uses PROFINET. The communication link allows the existing CAN equipment to exchange data with the PROFINET control system.

Is the 6AG1620-0AA00-7AA0 a PLC CPU?

No. It is a communication module. It does not replace the PLC CPU; instead, it provides the network interface between PROFINET and CAN.