B&R provides separate implementation paths for IEC 60870-5-101, IEC 60870-5-104, and IEC 61850. The available evidence identifies licensed IEC 60870 drivers for AS projects and IEC 61850 server functionality on an X20 PLC. Confirm current release status, hardware compatibility, and client availability with B&R before selecting an architecture.
Protocol support matrix
| Protocol | Evidence-supported implementation | Version or status | Licensing |
|---|---|---|---|
| IEC 60870-5-101 | Driver originating from APROL and available for AS projects | V4.05.5 | License required |
| IEC 60870-5-104 | Driver originating from APROL and available for AS projects | V3.01.7 | License required |
| IEC 61850 | Server functionality running on an X20 PLC | Client functionality was described only as planned in an undated statement | Not established by the available evidence |
Configure IEC 60870-5-101 or IEC 60870-5-104
Select the driver by protocol rather than treating IEC 60870-5-101 and IEC 60870-5-104 as one interchangeable interface. The identified packages are IEC 60870-5-101 AS driver V4.05.5 and IEC 60870-5-104 AS driver V3.01.7.
- Obtain the applicable AS driver from B&R and verify that its stated version is compatible with the target AS project and controller.
- Contact the responsible B&R sales channel to obtain the required license.
- Arrange B&R configuration training or technical assistance where the project team lacks experience with the driver.
- Before commissioning, confirm official release status and support coverage through a B&R sales contact or official support request.
Evaluate the IEC 61850 architecture
The evidence supports IEC 61850 server functionality on an X20 PLC. It does not establish a released IEC 61850 client, because the only client statement says it was planned “for this year” without a date. Do not base a design on that schedule; submit a current product request to B&R and obtain written confirmation of client availability.
The evidence also does not identify dedicated hardware, supported X20 CPU models, license requirements, engineering software compatibility, or configuration limits. Resolve each item with B&R before procurement. If the application needs client behavior, state that role explicitly in the request because confirmed server support does not prove client support.
Pre-project verification
Record the required protocol, controller role, target X20 model, AS environment, selected driver version, license entitlement, and official support status. Acceptance testing should verify the required role and communication path on the actual licensed target; package availability alone does not establish compatibility with a particular hardware and software combination.
FAQ
Does B&R support IEC 60870-5-101 and IEC 60870-5-104?
Yes. The evidence identifies IEC 60870-5-101 AS driver V4.05.5 and IEC 60870-5-104 AS driver V3.01.7, both originating from APROL and available for AS projects.
Do the B&R IEC 60870 drivers require a license?
Yes. Obtain the applicable license through the responsible B&R sales channel and confirm entitlement before commissioning.
Does a B&R X20 PLC support IEC 61850 client and server roles?
The evidence confirms server functionality on an X20 PLC. Client functionality was only described as planned in an undated statement, so verify its current release status directly with B&R before designing around it.