以太网/ IP是一个开源protoc沟通ol that uses a multi-layer approach to enable industrial automation components. It’s one of many protocols that perform the critical function of enabling layers between devices, applications, and more.
EtherNet/IP is a standard communication protocol used in industrial automation and Internet of Things (IoT) communication. It’s an accepted standard covered under Institute and Electrical Engineers Standards (IEEE) 802.3 with the TCP/IP protocol.
EtherNet/IP’s adherence to IEEE 802.3 compliance standards allows it to robustly handle the physical and data-link layers for EtherNet and wireless communications.
Most manufacturers still utilize legacy assets on the factory floor, including machines, PLCs, nodes, and other equipment. Their old EtherNet layer and chosen topology need to be accessible by the data requirements and traffic generated by a machine data platform. EtherNet/IP enables these platforms across a company’s original topology and infrastructure.
The below image from maps out the components of EtherNet/IP in the OSI Model, a framework that describes the seven layers used by computer systems in order to communicate over a network:
Image Source:RealPars
EtherNet/IP is used for communication between connected devices. It enables real-time communication to feed machine data platforms and deliver insights to the user or machine for consumption.
It can be used for many devices, including devices not connected to controllers. Most people visualize EtherNet/IP as a cable or T1 line. But as a communication protocol, it uses a company’s traditional EtherNet infrastructure to enable the use of multiple devices engaged in real-time communication across the factory floor.
These devices include PLCs, controllers, wireless devices, edge computing nodes,IIoT sensors, robotic devices, and more. And while the physical hardware may still be a cable, it also allows wireless communication such as cellular or Bluetooth.
These devices communicate the millions of data points that machines generate on the shop floor. The data is can be sent to a cloud-based machine data platform for processing and analysis. EtherNet/IP makes this real-time data transfer possible.
EtherNet/IP uses theIEEE 802.3 standard, which defines the physical and data-link layers of the wired part of the EtherNet.
The IP portion of EtherNet/IP stands for Industrial Protocol; it adapts or converts the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) for use over EtherNet. CIP standards power the device profiles and services required by real-time applications and controllers.
Because EtherNet/IP converts EtherNet’s existing list of capabilities to an object model used by CIP, it can transport any I/O messages along the network. This process makes it easy to implement automation functions despite manufacturers using a wide range of devices.
A connected factory consists of hundreds or thousands of devices that need to send data. The EtherNet/IP protocol uses TCP/IP to manage these devices in an integrated system.TCP/IP is layered protocol that splits data types into multiple layers, including:
These layers enable seamless real-time communication between devices on the shop floor and the cloud-based machine data platform. This connection can be used for automation functions, analysis, alerts, alarms, and more.
Because it uses a combination of EtherNet and CIP protocols, EtherNet/IP enables device communication without the need for routers or switches. EtherNet/IP also allows integration throughout the enterprise network. Device control, configuration, and new or revised instructions can be sent from any device with access.
EtherNet/IP’s structure allows companies to connect devices from any OEM to the network, thereby enabling access to the machine data platform. This procedure eliminates the need for proprietary protocols that require expensive investment into a single vendor’s product. This approach also optimizes the use of all devices by lowering costs and allowing users to choose the ones that fit their system.
EtherNet/IP is a widely used standard, and users can find devices across a wide range of vendors. This range includes small micro-applications through large-scale industrial systems used for building maintenance.
Many manufacturers are already invested in EtherNet which uses hardware (such as cables) to connect. EtherNet/IP allows users to continue using their star, ring, or daisy chain configuration while allowing them the flexibility to add wireless devices.
EtherNet/IP is open source. Suppliers and vendors can design devices to take advantage of EtherNet/IP’s familiarity and use within industrial automation. The software is free to developers and vendors to include in their products.
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