The PROFINET Asset Service (PNAS) is a specialized application designed to operate on the Industrial Edge Device (IED). Its primary function is to read and write data records from and to PROFINET devices. By scanning multiple devices on a network, PNAS is able to retrieve Identification and Maintenance (I&M) data from the PROFINET IO Devices.
NOTICE
Be aware that the PROFINET Asset Service also provides an API to write Data Records to PROFINET devices. By installing the PNAS, this API becomes usable by every app running on the IED. Currently, there is no API authentication in place. Therefore, be cautious about who may be able to install and access which app on an IED.
In general, data record writes are needed for commissioning tasks, example:
- Reconfiguring devices
- Updating firmware of devices
However, in some cases, write access might also be needed for reading data (in the case of some PROFINET profiles). Example: Reading an IO-Link sensor parameter requires writing a PN data record to the IO-Link master first.
End user may need PROFINET data for various maintenance use cases. In such instances, enabling the PROFINET Asset Service becomes necessary.
The main objective of the PROFINET Asset Service is to serve as a common connector on the IED for all applications that require this functionality. This centralized approach is crucial because running multiple applications with PROFINET scanning functionality simultaneously is not recommended.
PNAS is a critical component in managing and optimizing the interaction between various applications and PROFINET devices within an IED environment. By enabling PNAS, you can ensure efficient and effective use of PROFINET data for your maintenance needs.