SIEMENS 6GK7342-5DA03-0XE0 – SIMATIC NET CP 342-5 PROFIBUS DP Communications Processor for S7‑300

The SIEMENS 6GK7342-5DA03-0XE0 (SIMATIC NET CP 342‑5) is a dedicated PROFIBUS DP communications processor for SIMATIC S7‑300 systems. It’s typically the go-to choice when you need a reliable DP Master interface, or when you want to offload bus traffic from the CPU to keep cycle times predictable. From my experience, it fits nicely into brownfield upgrades where a plant wants to keep existing PROFIBUS devices—ET 200 I/O stations, SINAMICS drives, weigh scales—while modernizing the control strategy on S7‑300.

You might notice that the CP 342‑5 brings robust diagnostics, stable 12 Mbit/s operation, and straightforward configuration in STEP 7. It also supports acyclic DP‑V1 services for parameterization tools, which in many cases shortens commissioning time and simplifies maintenance.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty period: 365 days
• Delivery time: 1 week for in-stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment before delivery
• Express delivery: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• PROFIBUS DP Master (Class 1) – Designed to control DP field devices with deterministic cyclic data exchange.
• DP‑V1 support – Acyclic services for parameterization and diagnostics, which typically speeds up commissioning.
• High-speed bus up to 12 Mbit/s – Auto baud-rate adaptation on standard RS‑485 (Type A) PROFIBUS cabling.
• Dedicated bus port and LEDs – 9‑pin Sub‑D interface with clear RUN/ERROR/BUS diagnostics indicators for quick troubleshooting.
• CPU load relief – Offloads communication handling from the S7‑300 CPU to help maintain stable cycle times under heavy I/O.
• S7 Routing & PG/OP communication – Simplifies engineering access and device diagnostics across network segments.
• Seamless engineering – Configured in SIMATIC STEP 7; in most cases supported in TIA Portal with the appropriate hardware support package.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

This module is commonly used across factory automation and process applications where PROFIBUS remains the installed base:

• Distributed I/O with ET 200 series (ET 200S/ET 200M/ET 200SP via gateways)
• Drive systems such as MICROMASTER and SINAMICS with PROFIBUS interfaces
• Packaging lines, conveyor systems, sortation equipment, and palletizers
• Weighing, dosing, and batching skids requiring stable cyclic I/O
• Utilities: boiler/CHP controls, compressors, and HVAC where DP devices are already deployed

A recent customer in food processing used this CP to segment a busy DP network off the main CPU load. The improvement was noticeable—cycle stability tightened up and maintenance could run device diagnostics (DP‑V1) without stopping production.

Advantages & Value

• Reliability – Mature hardware that behaves predictably under heavy bus traffic; diagnostics are clear and practical.
• Compatibility – Works with a wide range of PROFIBUS field devices and standard GSD files, which typically reduces integration risk.
• Lifecycle savings – Extends the useful life of existing PROFIBUS assets, avoiding a full network rip-and-replace.
• Engineering efficiency – Familiar STEP 7 workflow; appears to be supported in TIA Portal with the right device support, easing mixed-environment projects.
• Support readiness – We provide advance replacement under warranty and practical guidance on cabling, termination, and commissioning.

Installation & Maintenance

• Panel & mounting – Install in an S7‑300 rack on DIN rail within a ventilated cabinet. Keep cable segregation between power and communication lines.
• Cabling – Use PROFIBUS Type A cable and Siemens Sub‑D bus connectors with integrated termination. Maintain correct shielding and grounding practices to minimize noise.
• Topology & termination – Line topology with termination active only at segment ends. Check segment length vs. baud rate and use repeaters if distances are long.
• Wiring checks – Verify polarity (A/B), secure connector strain relief, and ensure the shield is 360° bonded at the connector.
• Commissioning – Configure nodes in STEP 7, load to CPU, and watch the CP’s LEDs and diagnostic buffer. You might notice issues early through BUSF indications.
• Routine maintenance – Periodically inspect connectors, clean dust from the cabinet, and back up the project. Firmware updates can be applied when available and tested.
• Safety – De-energize before wiring. Follow local electrical codes and ESD precautions when handling modules.

Supporting Components (often paired)

• PROFIBUS bus connector (e.g., SIEMENS 6ES7 972-0BA52-0XA0 or 6ES7 972-0BB42-0XA0 with PG port)
• PROFIBUS Type A cable (e.g., SIEMENS 6XV1 830-0EH10)
• S7‑300 power supply (e.g., SIEMENS PS 307 series) and appropriate S7‑300 rack/rails
• Repeaters for long runs or high node counts (e.g., SIEMENS 6ES7 972-0AA02-0XA0)

Quality & Certifications

• Conformities: CE
• Listings: UL / cUL (industrial control equipment)
• Environmental: RoHS compliant; REACH declaration available
• Manufacturer’s warranty: typically 12 months; our coverage: 365 days