General
Cable type	PROFIBUS Plastic Fiber Optic
Core diameter	980 µm
Sheath diameter	1000 µm
Outer sheath	PVC
Plug connection	4x BFOC
Compatibility	SIMATIC NET, PROFIBUS

The Siemens 6XV1821-0BN30 is a PROFIBUS Plastic Fiber Optic Standard cable, specifically designed for use in industrial automation systems. It serves as a connection element in the SIMATIC NET network and enables data transmission via an optical plastic fiber. The cable is equipped with four BFOC connectors and has a length of 30 m. It is particularly suitable for applications requiring high immunity to interference and minimal influence from electromagnetic fields, such as in manufacturing automation or process industry.

Applications

The cable is used in industrial environments where reliable and interference-free data transmission over short to medium distances is required. It is especially suitable for installations where electrical cables could be affected by electromagnetic interference. The use of plastic fiber (POF) offers advantages over metallic cables, as it does not create galvanic connections and can therefore be used in potentially explosive areas, provided the entire installation is appropriately certified.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The 6XV1821-0BN30 features a PVC outer jacket that resists mechanical stress and environmental influences such as moisture or temperature fluctuations. The fiber itself has a core diameter of 980 µm and a cladding diameter of 1000 µm, which is typical for standard POF cables. The four BFOC connectors (Bayonet Fibre Optic Connector) enable quick and secure connections to PROFIBUS end devices. This connector design is intended for easy installation and maintenance and ensures a stable optical coupling.

Technology Explained Simply

The cable uses a plastic fiber (POF) that transmits data via light pulses. Unlike glass fiber, POF is more flexible, lighter, and less expensive, although it offers lower bandwidth and shorter range. The use of POF is therefore particularly advantageous in systems with short transmission distances and low data rates, as is typical for PROFIBUS networks. The light waveguide transmits signals over the 30 m length without electrical conductors, thereby minimizing the risk of interference from electromagnetic fields.

Compatibility and Accessories

The cable is intended for use in PROFIBUS networks and is compatible with SIMATIC NET systems. As accessories, various tools are available to facilitate installation and maintenance, including the PROFIBUS Plastic FO STRIPPING Tool Set V2 (6GK19056PA10), BFOC connectors (6GK1905-1PA00), a polishing set for 100 BFOC connectors (6GK1905-6PS00), and a crimping tool (6GK1905-6PB00). These tools support the correct processing of the fiber and the creation of clean, functional connections.

Installation and Mounting

Installation is performed by simply inserting the BFOC connectors into the corresponding ports of the PROFIBUS devices. The cable is designed for installation in enclosed rooms or control cabinets. The PVC jacket provides sufficient protection against mechanical damage and environmental influences. During installation, care should be taken to avoid excessive bending or stressing of the fiber to prevent optical signal distortion.

Operational Advantages

The use of an optical plastic fiber provides high immunity to interference during operation, as no electrical signals are transmitted. This reduces the risk of interference and enables reliable communication in electrically noisy environments. The cable is easy to handle, simple to connect, and does not require additional power supply for data transmission. The standard length of 30 m is sufficient for many industrial applications, eliminating the need for additional extensions or repeaters.