Powerlinks and Ethernet Powerlinks are two standards that SRAM has developed for industrial automation. These technologies are based on standard Ethernet, but are not proprietary. In fact, they are open standards that are managed by the Ethernet POWERLINK Standardization Group. The technology was originally introduced in 2001 by the Austrian automation company B&R. However, as technology has evolved, they are no longer exclusive to SRAM. Read on to learn more about these technologies.
SRAM’s PowerLinks
SRAM’s PowerLinks are the easiest way to attach a chain to a 10-speed drive train. Developed by chain engineers at SRAM, they are tool-free and provide a secure connection between the chains of different gear ratios. PowerLock is another great feature of SRAM’s 10-speed chain rings. It is the tool-free, surefire way to connect chains. Read on to find out more.
One advantage of the Powerlinks is that they can be reused – if you’re done riding, you can reuse them. The PowerLink’s ridges can get damaged during unlocking or disassembling the chain, but you can easily fix them. These chains also work well with SRAM’s 11-speed hubs. And SRAM also makes a great saddle. The retired RoadBikeRider founder, Ed Pavelka, is a SRAM PowerLink user. He rides 12,000 miles a year and prefers Florida winters over Chicago summers.
SRAM’s PowerLocks
The power of the bike is in the chain. SRAM’s engineers have developed the PowerLock to keep your 10-speed chain connected. PowerLock is tool-free and offers a sure-fire way to connect your chain. SRAM has also developed PowerLock for their road bikes. Both chain lock-up systems are reliable and easy to use. Read on to learn more about them. Here are some other things you should know about SRAM’s PowerLinks.
SRAM’s PowerLinks are reusable. Each chain link is made of two parts – the outer plate and the pin that latches into the other half. Each pin has a “head” that sits in an inset in the other plate. The head of the pin has a retaining ring. To remove the head, you have to press the two plates inward. If you want to use the chain on a different bike, a different Powerlink might be better suited for you.
SRAM’s Ethernet Powerlink
SRAM’s Ethernet Powerlink has a unique scheduling mechanism that ensures that only one node uses the physical medium at a time. This mechanism is separated into two phases, one isochronous and one asynchronous, and is used to provide bandwidth for non-critical data. A Managing Node grants access to the physical medium through dedicated poll request messages. The asynchronous phase prevents non-deterministic Ethernet behavior.