ElmoMC Multi-Axis Motion Controller-Maestro - Manual (Page 203)

Maestro Software Manual
MAN-MASSW (Ver. Q)
11-1
Chapter 11: Ethernet IP
Communication
“Ethernet Industrial Protocol”, or EtherNet/IP (EIP), defines an open industrial standard
that extends the classic Ethernet with an industrial protocol. EtherNet/IP was developed
by ControlNet International (CI) and the Open DeviceNet Vendor Association (ODVA) in
collaboration with the Industrial Ethernet Association (IEA).
EtherNet/IP is an application level protocol implemented on top of EtherNet
TCP/UDP/IP. Its object model is shared with ControlNet and DeviceNet through the
common Control and Information Protocol (CIP). The protocol allows for transfer of data
and I/O over EtherNet.
Based on the TCP/IP, EtherNet/IP uses the OSI layer model's lower 4 layers which
include all the standard Ethernet-communication modules (e.g.- PC interface cards,
cables, connectors, hubs and switches).
There is the Encapsulation Protocol located above the transport layer with which the CIP
is mapped on TCP/IP and UDP/IP. Since CIP, as a largely network-independent
standard, has already been used for many years with ControlNet and DeviceNet, they all
have the same application protocol and can therefore use common device profiles and
object libraries. These objects make plug-and-play interoperability possible between
complex devices developed by various manufacturers.
EtherNet/IP is intended for networked real-time control applications. Integration of
Ethernet down to the device level by CIP, offers numerous advantages including
universal configuration, recording and controlling data across several network levels.
Additionally, the TCP/IP connection to the Internet or company Intranets makes
continuous information flow possible at all work levels.
Figure 11-1: Network Layers