When it comes to industrial Ethernet, powerlinks are an excellent choice. These real-time communications protocols use Ethernet as the backbone. They are an open standard managed by the Ethernet POWERLINK Standardization Group. In 2001, Austrian automation firm B&R introduced POWERLINK. In the following paragraphs, we’ll look at the advantages of each. To learn more about powerlinks, read the rest of this article. We’ll also cover Ethernet CompactCom 40-series and Anybus NP40 network processors.
POWERLINK
Ethernet Powerlinks are real-time data exchange protocols that work with standard Ethernet. The Ethernet POWERLINK Standardization Group manages the standards for this open protocol, which was introduced by Austrian automation company B&R in 2001. It is a standard protocol that is designed to provide fast communication between different equipment and systems. In addition to real-time communication, POWERLINKS can provide up to eight times the signal speed of standard Ethernet.
Ethernet CompactCom 40-series
Ethernet CompactCom 40-series powerlink offers connectivity across multiple protocols. The product has been evaluated and certified by several network organizations, allowing device manufacturers to speed up the certification process. Its versatility is ideal for high-end industrial applications. CompactCom 40-series devices support all major industrial networks, including Modbus and Profibus. In addition, the product offers support for a wide range of industrial protocols.
Anybus NP40 network processor
The Anybus NP40 network processor for power links is a single-chip device that includes a high-performance ARM core and FPGA fabric for real-time Ethernet interfaces. The processor supports powerlink, EtherCAT, Sercos III, and Profinet IRT protocols. Designed by Microsemi Inc., it is a low-power device that combines high performance with power-efficient performance.
IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard
POWERLINK is an industrial Ethernet solution based on the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard. This technology is used in process industries to connect multiple machines. The protocol enables real-time communication between the industrial equipment. POWERLINK also supports IEEE 802.1 network architecture and IEC 61784-2 real-time Ethernet-based fieldbuses. Its benefits are listed below. Listed below are the main features of this industrial networking technology.
EPSG roundtable discussion
The EPSG is involved with the development of powerlink standards. It is working to create an open safety protocol, openSAFETY. The IOGP Geomatics Committee published a poster on the topic in August 2012.