Product Details

The Yokogawa VF701 (Style S3) is a high-performance Vnet/IP Control Bus Interface Card designed for the CENTUM VP and ProSafe-RS Distributed Control Systems (DCS). This card installs directly into industrial PCs to facilitate a high-speed link between operator stations and the control network. We supply this product as 100% brand new and original in factory packing to ensure maximum uptime in critical process environments.

Product Overview

The VF701 acts as the primary hardware gateway for Vnet/IP communication. It manages high-volume data traffic between Human Interface Stations (HIS), Engineering Stations (ENG), and field control units. By supporting 1 Gbps transmission speeds, the VF701 ensures real-time data synchronization and rapid alarm response. This card plays a decisive role in large-scale industrial plants where synchronized control and safety communication are non-negotiable.

Part Number Breakdown

The VF701 series includes specific hardware revisions:

• VF701: Base model for the Vnet/IP Interface Card.

• Style S3: Indicates the third-generation hardware revision, optimized for modern PCI bus stability and enhanced EMI resistance.

Technical Specifications

Engineering Advantages

• Gigabit Deterministic Control: The VF701 utilizes 1000BASE-T technology to deliver low-latency communication. This ensures that safety-critical signals and high-frequency process variables reach the operator console without the jitter associated with standard commercial network cards.

• Dual-Redundant Architecture: The card facilitates Yokogawa’s signature redundant Vnet/IP networking. If a primary network path fails, the card manages an instantaneous switchover to the secondary path, preventing any loss of control or visibility.

• Legacy and Modern Integration: The inclusion of both RJ-45 and BNC connectors allows the VF701 to bridge modern Ethernet-based networks with legacy 10BASE-2 coaxial segments. This makes it an ideal choice for phased system upgrades.

• Industrial-Grade Noise Immunity: Yokogawa engineers the VF701 with high-level electromagnetic interference (EMI) resistance. It maintains stable data packets even in electrical rooms housing high-capacity variable frequency drives (VFDs) and heavy switchgear.

• Passive Host Offloading: The onboard processor handles network protocol management, significantly reducing the CPU load on the host PC. This allows the HIS or ENG station to maintain peak performance during complex engineering tasks or major plant upsets.

FAQs

Does the VF701 support ProSafe-RS safety systems?

Yes. The VF701 is fully compatible with both CENTUM VP control systems and ProSafe-RS safety instrumented systems (SIS), allowing for a unified communication platform across the entire plant.

Can I install the VF701 in any standard PC?

The VF701 requires a standard PCI slot. While it fits many industrial PCs, we recommend verifying that your station’s motherboard and operating system support Yokogawa's Vnet/IP drivers for this specific card.

What is the maximum distance for Vnet/IP cabling with this card?

When using the RJ-45 (Ethernet) port, the maximum distance to the nearest switch is 100 meters. For legacy BNC coaxial connections, the card supports distances up to 185 meters per segment.

How does the card receive power?

The VF701 draws all necessary power directly from the host PC's PCI bus. It requires no external power supply, which simplifies installation and reduces the potential points of failure within the cabinet.