PROFIBUS & PROFINET International expands PROFIsafe for industrial automation

PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI) is expanding the technical and functional capabilities of PROFIsafe to enhance safety communication in manufacturing and process automation. A new specification, released in June 2026, clarifies technical fundamentals including PROFINET mechanisms for BaseID and parameterization, permissible values, data types, CRC calculations, and reaction times. This clarification version has already been evaluated by TÜV.

The implementation of BaseID is particularly significant for large-scale networks and modular machine designs, as it allows for the unique identification and integration of additional PROFIsafe components into complex structures. To support these updates, PI is providing an expanded testing infrastructure, including the new PROFIsafe TestBundle, a Layertester, and associated laboratory documentation to ensure reproducible verification and certification for manufacturers.

Furthermore, PI is advancing safe drive communication through the “Profidrive on Profisafe Amendment,” which supports interoperable, manufacturer-independent safety functions. Development efforts are also focusing on integrating functional safety into process automation, such as through “PROFINET over APL,” and expanding the use of the technology in process field devices.