Gateways link different fieldbus systems

Typical applications are installations with mixed usage of Beckhoff and Siemens, Rockwell or Schneider PLCs, such as automobile manufacturing plants.

HMS Industrial Networks has added 19 new EtherCAT gateways to its X-gateway family.

The new X-gateways are links that allow EtherCAT-connected devices to communicate with other fieldbus or industrial Ethernet networks and vice versa.

The new EtherCAT gateway series includes versions for fieldbuses such as Profibus, DeviceNet, CANopen, Modbus, Interbus, CC-Link, ControlNet, AS-Interface and the industrial Ethernet protocols Profinet, EtherNet/IP and Modbus-TCP.

Typical applications are installations with mixed usage of Beckhoff and Siemens, Rockwell or Schneider PLCs, such as automobile manufacturing plants where fieldbus-based segments are integrated into new sections based on EtherCAT.

The X-gateways are compact devices that suit standard DIN rail mounting and 24V industrial power supplies.

They are based on Anybus communication modules.

Embedded into a small metal housing, the modules form an intelligent link between two industrial networks.

On the EtherCAT side, they always function as a slave.

On the secondary network side, they can work as master, slave or server, depending on the selected network combination.

The EtherCAT implementation is based on Beckhoff's EtherCAT technology combined with HMS' NP30 network processor and contains all protocol functions, including the CANopen based application layer for process data (PDO) and parameter data (SDO) communication functions.

The X-gateway is CE-marked and certified for UL, ATEX and Class 1/Div 2 hazardous locations.

After startup, the gateways are immediately ready for data exchange between the two selected networks.

The gateways transmit I/O data transparently between the two networks.

The amount of data is configured within a simple configuration dialogue during setup of the gateway.

The gateways can easily be integrated into industrial automation systems and will ensure a seamless information flow between different networks.

The Anybus X-gateways combine high reliability and flexibility.

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