The new technology brings standard Ethernet to the field level, and enables time-critical automation protocols running on Ethernet to meet the requirements for real-time performance and determinism.
The switching technology does not alter the Ethernet message, and complies with IEEE 802.3. High-priority automation messages generated by industrial automation profiles using standard Ethernet overtake messages that are not relevant to the automation systems. This technology is built into the Ethernet switches and it guarantee that the messages are delivered in time. It can be used with all IT and automation applications.
Multi-port switches support extended line topologies and star topologies, giving users the freedom to choose the best topology for their application. By extending the concept of the Automation IT platform down to the field level, HARTING expects the new technology to have a significant influence on the use of Ethernet in industrial applications.