Weintek CODESYS SoftPLC Now Fully Supports Profinet

May 29, 2025

Do you know which Ethernet protocol had the largest market share in 2024? It's Profinet – with a 23% share, it dominates the industrial networking sector (source: HMS Networks, 2024). Weintek has also implemented and now supports Profinet IO Master functionality in its CODESYS SoftPLC solution.

What is Profinet and Why It Matters?

Profinet (Process Field Network) is an open, Ethernet-based industrial protocol that enables real-time communication between devices within an industrial network. It is maintained by the organization PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI).

Key Benefits of Profinet

Combines high data transmission speed with determinism. This ensures data is transferred quickly and with precise timing – crucial for high-speed or complex production lines.
Compatibility with other Ethernet protocols (e.g., HTTP, MQTT). This allows different systems to operate within a single network without added complexity.
Integration of PROFIBUS devices. This enables the use of existing equipment alongside newer technologies, ensuring a smooth transition to modern systems. (source: Automation.com)

CODESYS SoftPLC and Profinet IO Master Integration

With the latest update, the Weintek CODESYS SoftPLC platform now supports Profinet IO Master functionality. This means:

Broader device control: connect Profinet IO devices from various manufacturers (sensors, I/O modules, drives, etc.)
GSDML file import: easily configure devices within the CODESYS environment
Stable and real-time data transmission: essential for precise process control
Multi-protocol integration: supports additional protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, CANopen, and EtherCAT

CODESYS SoftPLC and cMTx HMI

By installing the CODESYS SoftPLC software on a cMT X series HMI, users gain both visualization capabilities and full PLC control functionality. This integrated control and visualization in a single device simplifies project architecture, reduces costs, and saves space in control cabinets. Additionally, this solution enables faster configuration and maintenance and improves data throughput between logic and visualization layers.

This platform is particularly well-suited for:

Modernizing existing systems where space-saving and ease of implementation are essential
Building new smart production lines and factories where integration and fast process response are critical

Benefits for Industrial Automation

Today’s industrial environment demands solutions that ensure efficiency, compatibility, and sustainable growth. However, automation systems must also be:

Cost-effective – delivering substantial benefits with reasonable investment
Flexible and easy to adapt to different production scenarios
Simple to integrate – requiring minimal programming or specialized personnel

Weintek CODESYS SoftPLC with Profinet IO Master functionality provides a solution that meets all these requirements:

Reduces the need for additional controllers and communication gateways, making systems more compact and easier to manage
Speeds up deployment with simple configuration and GSDML support
Enhances system availability and reliability by supporting stable real-time communication across multiple protocols

Industrial Protocol Comparison

This table summarizes the most commonly used industrial automation communication protocols, their key features, and typical applications.

Protocol	Key Features	Application / Description
Profinet	Real-time, deterministic, open	Ideal for high-speed machines, widely used in Europe
EtherNet/IP	Based on CIP, Ethernet compatible	Popular in the US, supports both time-critical and regular data exchange
EtherCAT	Low latency, deterministic	Suited for precise control – robotics, motion control
Modbus / Modbus TCP	Simple, open	Commonly used with sensors, PLCs, and legacy systems
OPC UA	Platform-independent, secure	For IoT and Industry 4.0 integration
PROFIBUS	Fieldbus protocol	Still widely used in legacy systems
CANopen / DeviceNet	Based on CAN, efficient	For real-time control and embedded systems
HART	Analog + digital communication	Used for sensor and transmitter control in process automation
CC-Link	Deterministic, fast	Very popular in Asia, especially Japan