Multi-Point Interface
The Multi Point Interface - Siemens (MPI) is a interface owner of the industrial programmable SIMATIC S7 of the company Siemens.
It is used for connecting the stations programming (PG or PC), operators consoles, and other devices in the SIMATIC family. This technology has inspired the development of protocol Profibus.
The MPI is based on the standard EIA-485 (formerly RS-485) and works with a speed of 187.5 kBd.
The network MPI must have resistance s of the end of the line generally included in the connector s and activated by a simple lever.
Manufacturers using this technology MPI can offer a range of connections to a PC: MPI cards, cards PCMCIA adapters USB or Ethernet.
(1) Article in original language : http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi_Point_Interface_-_Siemens