Siemens SIMATIC S7-1500 System Manual page 220

GSD file
As a Generic Station Description, this file contains all properties of a PROFINET or
PROFIBUS device that are necessary for its configuration.
I/O modules
All modules that can be operated with a CPU or an interface module.
Identification data
Information that is saved in modules, and that supports the user in reviewing the system
configuration and locating hardware changes.
Interface module
Module in the distributed I/O system. The interface module connects the distributed
I/O system to the CPU (IO controller) via a fieldbus, and prepares the data for and from
I/O modules.
Isolated modules
In the case of isolated input/output modules, the reference potentials of the control and load
circuits are galvanically isolated, e.g. by means of optical isolators, relays or transformers.
Input/output circuits can be connected to common potential.
Load current supply
Supply of the module's input and output electric circuits.
MAC address
worldwide, clear device identification, which is already assigned to each PROFINET device
in the factory. The 6 bytes of the address consist of a 3-byte manufacturer ID and a 3-byte
device ID (serial number). The MAC address is usually clearly legible on the device.
Nodes
Device that can send, receive or amplify data via the bus, e.g., I/O device via PROFINET IO.
Non-isolated modules
In the case of non-isolated input and output modules, the reference potentials of the control
and load circuits are electrically connected.
S7-1500 Automation System
System Manual, 02/2014, A5E03461182-AB
Glossary
219