1. Introduction
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RC700 / RC90 Option Fieldbus I/O Rev.14
1.7 EtherCAT
1.7.1 Overview of EtherCAT
EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology) is a fieldbus network that
provides easy interconnection between control devices (PLC, PC, sensor, actuator, etc.).
EtherCAT was developed as an open communication standard to connect various field
devices (sensor, actuator, Robot Controller, etc.). Because of the open communication
standard, EtherCAT can easily construct multi-vendor system with various devices
developed around the world.
EtherCAT Controller
Motor Driver
from Company A
Motor Driver
from Company B
Intelligent I/O
from Company C
Intelligent I/O
from Company D
Photo Sensor
from Company E
Analog Device
from Company G
HMI Device
from Company F
EtherCAT Network
1.7.2 Features of EtherCAT
Protocol
EtherCAT uses only standard frames which comply with IEEE802.3. Therefore,
EtherCAT frames are available for transmission from a general Ethernet Controller
(master) and are able to use standard tools (such as a monitoring tool).
EtherCAT protocol is optimized for the control data. It is directly stored in the Ethernet
frame and transmitted.
Reduced Wiring
Compared with parallel wiring, EtherCAT employs a standard Ethernet cable which
substantially reduces the number of necessary wires, wiring time and cost.
Detachable communication connectors provide you with simple wiring between nodes and
easy network separation or reconstruction.
Specified environment-resistance cables allow you to construct an environment-resistant
system at low cost.
Network topology of EtherCAT is usually line, but other topologies such as star, daisy
chain, or ring can also be used.
You can use the general network switch hub for EtherCAT. However, be sure to use a
product complying with the industrial standards or a noise-resistant Ethernet cable (STP
cable). If you use an office use product or UTP cable, it may causes communication
errors and may not offer the proper performance.
NOTE
Summary of Contents for RC700
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