Consider the Benefits: DeviceNet Gateways Can Now Be Configured as Scanners
Consider the Benefits: DeviceNet Gateways Can Now Be Configured as Scanners
As a tried-and-true fieldbus application-level protocol, DeviceNet creates a digital communication network between industrial controllers (PLCs) and I/O devices, such as motors, conveyors, and sensors.
Because it sends small packets of data at low speeds and is an open network standard that uses a combination of CIP protocol and the CAN Physical Layer, DeviceNet is still widely used today. Most often, you’ll find DeviceNet communication tools in automotive and process environments.
ProSoft’s latest update to its powerful, easy-to-configure DeviceNet Router supports the exchange of data between DeviceNet and EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, or Modbus RTU networks. This makes it simple for you to streamline equipment modernization by integrating DeviceNet devices with a variety of platforms and other devices.
To connect existing DeviceNet networks, the DeviceNet Router can be configured in two ways:
- As a DeviceNet scanner: The router connects to other DeviceNet devices, and the input/output data from each device can be mapped to a Modbus Server/Client or an EtherNet/IP Target or Originator.
- As a standard DeviceNet device: The router supports input/output data exchange using polled or change-of-state connections.
Because the DeviceNet Router can also be configured as an EtherNet/IP Target or Originator, it can read/write from an EtherNet/IP network using the following methods:
- Class 1 data
- Explicit messaging (also known as Class 3 data or unconnected messaging)
- Direct-to-Tag technology, which allows the router to exchange data with a Logix controller without code, reducing configuration time
Where and How Are DeviceNet Routers Used?
If your network contains an existing DeviceNet controller that’s configured as a scanner, the DeviceNet Router can support communication with a new EtherNet/IP drive or EtherNet/IP overload protection relay. These two devices can communicate using EtherNet/IP while the router helps the DeviceNet controller communicate with EtherNet/IP devices via the router.
If your network contains a new controller, such as a ControlLogix PLC or Modbus PLC that communicates through either EtherNet/IP or Modbus, and it needs to connect to an existing DeviceNet network containing many sensors, motion control drives, etc., the DeviceNet Router can interface with existing DeviceNet sensors to bring in and map data to EtherNet/IP or Modbus so the controller can access the data.
Will This Work in My Environment?
If you want to connect to newer controllers or HMIs, then the DeviceNet Router will help you make it happen quickly, reducing the amount of time it takes to configure the interface between new and existing networks. It includes advanced diagnostics so you can monitor traffic and detect where failures may occur.
After a large manufacturer used ProSoft’s DeviceNet Router on its plant floor, it was immediately impressed with how easy it was to integrate with existing devices and networks to support new technology.