GSD Files

GSD files contain information about the basic capabilities of a device. All devices are shipped with a GSD file, or a file can be downloaded from this web site or the vendor's own web site.  With a GSD file, system integrators can determine basic data such as the communications options and the available diagnostics.

GSDML are GSD files written in XML format. They describe the features of the PROFINET device model. GSDML editing can be accomplished with standard XML editors and should comply with ISO 15745, the base for device descriptions. The aim is to allow better integration of devices into an engineering tool.

It is not an objective of the GSDML format to describe technological functions or the graphical user interface of a device. For this purpose concepts such as TCI, FDT, EDD should be used.

The GSDML specification can be downloaded here. There is also a tool available for viewing and checking PROFINET GSD files, which can be downloaded here. Both packages contain examples of PROFINET GSD files which can be used as a starting point for your own development.

GSD files have a standard file format, which is described in the PROFIBUS guidelines. PNO has developed a GSD Editor to assist the manufacturer when setting up GSD files for PROFIBUS DP slave devices. The editor includes a syntax and semantics check according to the GSD specifications. Members of PI can download the GSD Editor free of charge from the PROFIBUS Web site at www.profibus.com.

Members of PI additionally can publish their GSD files free of charge with their product description at Products at www.profibus.com, if the GSD files conform to the PROFIBUS specifications. Download the GSD specification here...

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This section contains manufacturer independent GSD files according to the PROFIBUS Profile for Process Control Devices, Version 3.02  See the GSD Library V3.02 here and Version 4.0  See the GSD Library V4.0 here.