In the world of industrial control systems, the communications network plays a crucial role in the success of the control system. Modbus, ControlNet and DeviceNet networks have been widely used in industrial settings. Eventually Ethernet/IP networks emerged as the dominant network protocol because of their scalability, performance, interoperability, supportability and cost-effectiveness.
This blog explores the advantages of using Ethernet/IP networks over other network protocols in industrial control systems.
Scalability and Flexibility
One of the primary advantages of Ethernet/IP networks in industrial control systems is their scalability and flexibility. Ethernet/IP technology offers greater bandwidth capabilities compared to ControlNet and DeviceNet, allowing for the transmission of larger amounts of data at higher speeds. This increased bandwidth supports the integration of more devices and accommodates the growing demands of modern industrial environments. Additionally, the Ethernet/IP standard protocol enables seamless integration with existing IT infrastructure and eases interoperability across multiple systems.
Enhanced Performance and Reliability
With advancements in Ethernet/IP technology, modern industrial-grade Ethernet/IP networks provide improved performance and reliability. Industrial specific networks, such as ControlNet and DeviceNet, have had advantages in reliability because of their deterministic design but Ethernet/IP has closed the gap. Ethernet/IP networks use full-duplex communication, enabling simultaneous transmission and reception of data. This eliminates collisions and ensures more efficient utilization of network bandwidth. Ethernet/IP networks support redundant topologies, such as ring or star configurations, which enhance network availability and fault tolerance. These features are crucial in industrial control systems where downtime can have severe consequences. The improvements in Ethernet/IP and often in the devices and software used for Ethernet/IP networks have closed the reliability gap, which allows the improved performance of Ethernet/IP networks to stand out.
Interoperability and Standardization
Ethernet/IP networks benefit from extensive standardization efforts, making them highly interoperable with a wide range of devices and systems. This protocol enables seamless integration of different devices, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. The standardized nature of Ethernet/IP networks simplifies system integration, reduces development efforts and enhances overall compatibility.
Supportability, Security, and Advanced Network Management
Ethernet/IP benefits from its wide use in IT networks and the hardware and software capabilities that organizations already have. Ethernet/IP networks are easier to support because IT departments are already familiar with them and they often require little to no software unique to the controls world. They offer robust network management capabilities, enabling monitoring and control of network traffic. Network management tools allow administrators to diagnose issues, manage bandwidth allocation and implement policies to prioritize critical control traffic. Ethernet/IP networks can use standard IT security practices and technologies, such as firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs) and encryption protocols to enhance network security. This ensures the protection of sensitive data, prevents unauthorized access and mitigates potential cyber threats.
Cost-effectiveness
Ethernet/IP networks offer significant cost advantages over Controlnet and DeviceNet networks. Ethernet/IP hardware, such as switches and cables, are more readily available and affordable due to their widespread adoption in both enterprise and consumer applications. Ethernet/IP networks use commercially available off-the-shelf components, reducing the reliance on proprietary equipment, which can be costly to buy and support. This cost-effectiveness allows for less expensive deployments and easier upgrades in industrial control systems.
Conclusion
As industrial control systems evolved and embraced digital transformation, Ethernet/IP networks emerged as the preferred choice for network connectivity. The scalability, performance, interoperability, supportability and cost-effectiveness of Ethernet/IP networks provide significant advantages over older Modbus, ControlNet and DeviceNet networks. By adopting Ethernet/IP technology, industrial organizations can achieve improved supportability, increased functionality and enhanced system integration while ensuring the security and reliability of their control systems.
About the Author
Jason Barry is a Senior Controls Engineer for Hallam-ICS. He has spent his career working on process automation systems in a variety of industries including Semiconductor, Chemical, Food and Beverage, Oil and Gas, and Toxic Gas Monitoring. His area of expertise includes Rockwell PLCs, multiple SCADA software, and SQL databases.
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About Hallam-ICS
Hallam-ICS is an engineering and automation company that designs MEP systems for facilities and plants, engineers control and automation solutions, and ensures safety and regulatory compliance through arc flash studies, commissioning, and validation. Our offices are located in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Vermont and North Carolina Texas, Florida and our projects take us world-wide.
