EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology) is a reliable, real-time Ethernet-based fieldbus system initially developed and implemented by Beckhoff Automation. Remarkably effective, this system uses a highly efficient communication method that allows data to be transferred from an industrial computer and communicated downstream to each piece of equipment in a daisy-chain configuration. The EtherCAT protocol is open and has gained wide acceptance due to its real-time capabilities and robust performance in industrial environments.
The protocol was developed to offer high performance, real-time capabilities, and cost-effectiveness for systems that range from small to large scale. It finds a vast array of applications in machine controls, as well as in robotics and other fields that require high-speed, reliable communication between controllers and devices.
This system is compatible with standard Ethernet and, therefore, does not require any specific hardware, which makes it a cost-effective solution. EtherCAT's ability to function on existing networks means it can work in tandem with other protocols and can share the same cables, switches, and the like, including industrial Ethernet infrastructure.
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History
The EtherCAT technology was initially introduced by Beckhoff Automation in 2003. It was then smoothly transferred to the EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) and has since been developed and maintained by this group. ETG is an open, non-profit organization that offers membership to manufacturers, developers, and users. The protocol has now established itself globally, becoming a high-performance Ethernet communication system in automation technology due to its real-time capabilities and the ability to connect a large number of devices to a single network.
Key Features of EtherCAT
EtherCAT offers several distinguishing features that contribute to its wide-spread use:
- High Speed: The system can process 1000 distributed I/O in 30 μs, or communicate with 100 servo axes in 100 μs.
- Efficiency: Data is not just passed along the communication line, but devices can directly read and write data as it flows by.
- Robustness: EtherCAT features error detection and flexible topology configurations to attain robustness against failure or data corruption.
- Operability: It allows for online configuration and diagnostics, making it a flexible and operable solution.
- Cost-effectiveness: Requires minimal hardware and can function over standard Ethernet, making its implementation cost-effective compared to other fieldbus systems.
Applications
The efficiency, robustness, and high speed of EtherCAT have made it a preferred choice in a host of applications:
- Industrial Automation: EtherCAT's high-speed, deterministic communication and robust error detection make it widely accepted in industrial automation, such as assembly lines, packing machinery, and material handling.
- Robotics: The perfect choice for complex servo control systems due to its capacity to handle fast control loops and synchronize large amounts of data.
- Wind Energy: EtherCAT is commonly used to control and monitor wind turbines due to its ability to accurately control multiple axes simultaneously.
- Medical Technology: In medical technology, EtherCAT is embraced for applications such as medical imaging, where it can handle the transfer of large amounts of data in real time.
| EtherCAT | |
|---|---|
| Name | EtherCAT |
| Organization | Beckhoff Automation |
| Introduced | 2003 |
| Standard | IEC 61158, IEC 61784-2 |
| Network Type | Ethernet-based |
| Topology | Daisy-chain, star, tree, or mixed arrangements |
| Speed | Up to 100 Mbit/s |
| Distance | Up to 100m (over copper cable), Up to 20km (over fiber) |
| Website | Website |