Why a communicating chip solves problems?

If just one motor isn't running synchronously on an umpteen-metre-long steel rolling mill, the entire plant stops immediately.
Automation devices and real-time-capable bus systems guarantee the necessary "cooperation" of the individual components. Malfunctions or even cost-intensive failures therefore remain the absolute exception.

Practically all of the top industrial automation companies have gone for Ethernet as the "fieldbus" of the future. The Ethernet interface will shortly become the accepted standard for industrial applications-especially for the replacement of existing fieldbus systems. Real-time Ethernet protocols or their standards enable a deterministic approach: essential in any application that demands precise synchronisation of several processes. Because we were at the forefront in this development, right from the outset, we have already become a reliable supplier to the industry.

• Unique: The hyNet^® XS supports all popular Ethernet standards and therefore serves as the platform for Profinet, Ethernet/IP and Powerlink.

 

• IEEE 1588, hub logic and the integrated DSP unit support the individual protocols and improve performance characteristics.

 
In addition, when it comes to the distribution and monitoring of power and a need for the highest possible availability, the hyNet^® XS takes over, for example as a full SOC - Important control and monitoring functions in "secondary" devices of power distribution systems.
 

The quickest entry into real-time Ethernet technology - A processor module, with all relevant hardware interfaces for all necessary protocols in three-square-centimetre size. For example, the Micro WebTarget3 (MWT3) of our partner Smart Network Devices GmbH, which based on the hyNet^® XS processor. It even offers a total of 3 Ethernet ports in addition to all the peripheral device interfaces of the processor. On the Real-Time side, an Ethernet hub with two external PHYs can be created (for in-line cabling), while the second MAC with integrated PHY is additionally available as a non-real-time Ethernet interface. The two MACs can also be operated separately and configured internally as an Ethernet switch. The module also has 4 MB flash and 16 MB SDRAM as on-board memory.

The Micro WebTarget3 (MWT3) processor module permits a multitude of applications in different field devices. The module alone can be used to create simple devices such as I/O modules or sensors. The module generates or acquires the necessary local signals directly. The additional non-real-time Ethernet interface can therefore be used for gateways or routers that are capable of coupling classic Ethernet networks and real-time Ethernet networks. More complex devices such as motors can be coupled to the module via fast serial interfaces (SSI, SPI).

If a control device acts as a master or controller in a network, the hyNet^® S simply becomes a PCI card. Equipped with bus master capability, it can be operated in PCI host or PCI target mode:

• Version 1 - Single Ethernet port
• Version 2 - Double Ethernet port with integrated Ethernet hub. Fast process data exchange with the PC thanks to the PCI interface. Configuration of the card or network is conveniently done from a PC. The real-time-critical functions run on the card, therefore relieving the tough real-time demands on the PC operating system.

All major industrial automation companies have chosen Ethernet to be the "field bus" of the future. Our new processor now covers all real-time standards in one.