TheIndustrial Ethernet version of CC-Linkhas added a new IE Field network which supports standard Ethernet (IEEE 802.3)with one gigabit performance over standard CAT5E cable and RJ45 connectors,targeting high-speed, deterministic communications between field devices

"CC-Link IE Field is the firstgigabit industrial Ethernet network that extends down to the field device level,"says John F. Wozniak, P.E., Automation Networking Specialist for the CC-LinkPartner Assn. "It combines the best of existing technologies and applies themin a highly reliable architecture that provides exceptional data bandwidth andtransaction rates."

CC-Link IE Field provides seamlesscontrol data transmission between automation controllers such as PLCs andcomputers and field devices such as digital and analog I/O, pneumatic valvemanifolds, RFID readers, VFDs, motion controllers and other factory assets. Itconnects up to 120 stations on a single network while providing deterministicdata exchange at gigabit speed without the need for Ethernet switches.

IE Field offers both "cyclic" and "transient"methods of data exchange based on proven, token passing technology and anoptimized protocol. Cyclic transmissions provide real-time, transparent data deliveryservices to all stations. A "common memory" model configured by a few simpleparameter settings establishes deterministic data exchange for the entire network.Specific data delivery timing can be calculated accurately before a network iscommissioned. The second method of CC-Link IE Field communication is thetransient mode. Transient messages are initiated "on-demand" from a specificstation. Transient messages can be sent to one or more network stations andthese stations can respond to Transient requests for data. CC-Link IE Fieldallocates transient mode bandwidth so that cyclic communication remainsdeterministic.

CC-Link IE Field is specifically targetingfield devices and complements the CC-Link IE Control network that operates onfiber optics networks, but is typically used to address higher level controlleroperations and linking individual field networks together for use in MESsystems. The control network can connect up to 239 CC-Link networks, andcombinations of IE field, safety or control networks to create an overallnetwork in a facility.

IE Field operates specifically withI/O, vision and conveyor systems and is designed for communication betweenfield devices. The
system offers high-speed, deterministic communications andthe ability to easily transfer large amounts of data (16,000 words and 32Kbits)on a single network which can also be combined with other networks in afacility.

For companies that already have TCP/IPdevices, the network architecture in their product allows them to incorporatean SLMP application stack into their device, and immediately access the CC-LinkIE Field network. It allows for products and companies to avoid a hardwareredesign. The IE Field network provides seamless communication anddeterministic operation for industrial and process applications.

The physical and data link layers ofthe CC-Link IE Control network utilize standard Ethernet technology (IEEE802.3) as well, using fiber optic as the communication medium. This enables theuse of commercially available Ethernet multimode fiber cables and networkanalyzers. Therefore, the availability of materials and selection of equipmentfor network installation, adjustment and troubleshooting are greatlysimplified. TCP/IP communications are supported via the transient/acycliccommunication function.