Yaskawa JAPMC-MC2303-E - Manual (Page 16)

1.3 FL-net Features
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FL-net Overview
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1.3 FL-net Features
FL-net has the following features:
• Open control network
• Realization of multi-vendor environments
• FL-net is capable of interconnecting controllers such as the programmable controllers (PLC) and computer
numeric control equipment (CNC) from many manufacturers, and personal computers for control and monitor-
ing.
In addition, FL-net has the following features.
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Compliant with Worldwide Standards
Efficient communication based on standard UDP/IP is realized as well as de facto standard Ethernet for OA equipment
communication. Ethernet provides the following advantages.
– Low cost
Prevailing communication devices can be used, resulting in low cost.
– Availability of prevailing network devices
A wide variety of prevailing network devices such as transceivers, hubs, cables, and PC LAN cards for Ethernet
can be used.
– Realization of high-speed communication
In the future, the baud rate can be increased to support 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, and 1 Gbps.
– Communication via optical fiber cables
The prevailing Ethernet optical repeater allows optical fibers to be used in the corresponding section for commu-
nication over distances of 500 m or more, improves noise resistance, and prevents of surge currents caused by
lightning strikes in outside wiring.
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Support of Necessary Communication Functions between FA Controllers
Because user requirements are fully examined as specifications, various features required for FA are supported.
– Large network
A maximum of 254 pieces of equipment (nodes) can be connected.
– Support of two types of communication functions according to purpose
The common memory function allows each node to share the same data through cyclic communication, and the
message communication function allows only necessary information to be transferred on demand.
– Large common memory
A large common memory (8 kbits + 8 kwords) is supported.
– Fast response
A fast response of 50 ms/32 nodes (2 kbits +2 kwords) can be realized.
– High reliability by masterless system
Because no master station is needed, each node can join or leave without affecting communications between
other nodes. Thus, each node can be turned ON or OFF and maintained independently.