Enabling high-bit-rate mode.

The CAN in Automation association (CiA) has released the CiA 604-4 high-bit-rate mode specification for CAN FD light. CAN FD light is a commander/responder communication system specified in an annex of the ISO 11898-1:2024. Using CAN SIC (signal improvement capability) transceivers and the new mode, bit rates up to 8 Mbit/s are possible.

The commander node has always the communication initiative. Responder nodes only communicate on request. This means, no arbitration is necessary. Precise and expensive peripheral circuitry is not necessary. CAN FD light is intended to be used for price-sensitive applications, including LED (light emitting diode) rear lights in passenger cars. In general, CAN FD light is suitable for networks, comprising many simple sensors or actuators. The data link layer protocol frame format complies with normal CAN FD, featuring 64-byte data fields. In respect to the physical transmission, robustness and EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) performance are the same as in traditional CAN networks.

“CAN FD light will be also suitable for 48-V powered vehicles,” said Holger Zeltwanger, CiA Managing Director, “when related CAN transceivers are available.” Currently, CiA members work on a 48-V CAN transceiver specification.

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@CANopen  #Automotive #PAuto #Communications

Industrial communications' Cyber resilience.

The EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) will require all manufacturers of products with digital elements to implement comprehensive security measures starting in December 2027. After thoroughly reviewing its technologies, PI has come to the following conclusion: PROFINET already provides the basis for CRA compliance today. Manufacturers can use existing installations and expand them step by step depending on their risk assessment. The PROFINET specification provides additional building blocks for extended security requirements.

“The CRA requirements pose major challenges for companies,” says PI Chairman Xaver Schmidt. “Our analysis shows that manufacturers who rely on PROFINET already have a solid basis for CRA compliance today. If higher security requirements are needed, manufacturers can gradually expand their products with PROFINET security features in the future – from authenticated secure communication to complete encryption.”

It requires manufacturers to assess the cybersecurity risks of their products. In doing so, they analyze possible attack scenarios and evaluate the necessary protection for industrial communication. Depending on the risk assessment, manufacturers can implement individual or multiple building blocks from the PROFINET security architecture to meet the CRA requirements for secure communication:

Secure Cell:
Network segmentation and access control (cell protection concept) can already be implemented with today’s PROFINET installations. Additional hardening measures are available with the PROFINET specification V2.5.

Secure Access:
Direct, secure access to devices from higher-level networks for applications ranging from asset management to artificial intelligence.

Secure Realtime:
Integrity, authentication and, if required, confidentiality through cryptographic protection of acyclic and cyclic real-time communication for critical infrastructures.

The Secure Access and Secure Realtime building blocks are described in the PROFINET specification V2.5, which will be published in mid-2026.

“Cybersecurity is not a one-size-fits-all approach but must be scalable – from small standalone machines to installations spread over kilometers,” says Schmidt. “The PROFINET architecture covers the entire spectrum: from network segmentation to cryptographically secured real-time communication – all while maintaining consistent performance. The key point is that many manufacturers can use their existing PROFINET installations as a basis and expand them as needed. This enables the CRA to be implemented in line with requirements without compromising data access.”

PI is developing the PROFINET specification in close cooperation with TÜV SÜD, based on the IEC 62443 industry standard.

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• See also CiA Statement on European CRA (16/2/2026)

@AllThingsPROFI #DigitalEU #Cybersecurity #Standards

Products for factory automation, intralogistics and renewable energies.

With the increasing digitalisation of warehouse and conveyor processes and the use of AI, there is a growing demand for reliable and high-performance products and solutions. This is one reason why LAPP is expanding its already extensive intralogistics product portfolio with new variants in line with customer requirements, with the aim of ensuring more efficient and future-proof material flows.

The new products include, for example, the UNITRONIC® BUS ASI for fixed installation and the UNITRONIC® BUS ASI FD for continuous use. Both data cables are designed for fieldbus communication via AS-Interface. LAPP customers can choose between different sheath materials. With long-distance variants and UL versions, the connection specialist offers practical solutions for a wide range of application requirements. The cables are also available in various jacket colours in accordance with international specifications – and now also in grey, specifically for the transmission of auxiliary power with 48 volts DC.

Fibre optic cables for solar and wind farms.
With its HITRONIC® fibre optic cables, LAPP has been offering cables suitable for the transmission of large amounts of data for many years – copper-free and interference-free, tap-proof and at almost the speed of light. Now, with the HITRONIC® BxK and the HITRONIC® BTxK, the connection solutions expert is launching two new outdoor fibre optic cables with single-mode fibres in accordance with ITUT G.657.A1, which enable simple and uncomplicated installation even in confined spaces. The fibres can even cope with tight bends without any loss of signal. Both versions are suitable for use in WAN networks, extremely versatile and can be laid directly in the ground. They are therefore ideal for solar and wind farms.

The HITRONIC® BxK with halogen-free outer sheath does not generate any electromagnetic interference thanks to its metal-free materials. It is suitable for permanent installation in pipes and closed installation ducts as well as for medium mechanical stress. The HITRONIC® BTxK, which is also halogen-free, has very high tensile strength thanks to its reinforced glass yarns and can withstand very high mechanical loads. Its resistant outer sheath makes it robust during installation and operation and provides additional protection against water ingress in the longitudinal direction after mechanical damage. It is also suitable for open installation on cable trays.

The EPIC® brand® covers all industrial connectors manufactured by LAPP. Last year, the company reorganised its entire range, redesigned its connectors and launched numerous new products. LAPP is now continuing this development with a whole range of new products and product enhancements: at the Hannover Messe 2025, the company presented the EPIC® M23 A3 Quickflex, the pioneer of a new generation of connectors. New: The M23 motor connector, which can be used directly on the servo motor, is now also available with a 6- or 9-pin plug configuration. LAPP also offers a chromated version for subsequent painting in the desired colour.

The EPIC® POWERLOCK connectors are suitable for generators and electric motors. But even when it comes to transmitting high currents for mobile applications, single-pole circular connectors are a must. They are used, for example, in shipping and for cabling live events. Thanks to their integrated release function, they can be quickly connected and disconnected without the need for special tools. The single-pole circular connector is available in four different sizes and with three connection types, making it extremely versatile. It can be screwed and crimped and is now also available with axial screw clamping technology.

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lapp_group_ @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Electric

Board re-elected.

The members of the nonprofit CiA (CAN in Automation) international users’ and manufacturers’ association have re-elected the Board of Directors: 

 

• Magnus Hell from Infineon as Technical Director (left),
• Christian Schlegel from CHS Consulting as Business Director (center), and
• Holger Zeltwanger as Managing Director (right).

In addition the regular CiA General Assembly appointed Bosch, Emotas, ESD, Kvaser, Microcontrol, and Murata as Technical Committee members. The elected Business Committee members are Emotas, ESD, Microcontol, Murata, and Vector.

CiA, established in 1992, has 755 members worldwide. The nonprofit association develops the CAN (Controller Area Network) ecosystem originally intended as in-vehicle network (IVN). Nowadays, the serial network is applied in different industry domains.

There are three data link layer versions internationally standardized: CAN CC (classic), CAN FD (flexible data-rate), and CAN XL (extended data-field length).

Recently, the ISO 11898-2 standard (CAN physical media attachment) has been released. It specifies all CAN transceivers: CAN HS (high speed), CAN FD, CAN SIC (signal improvement capability), and CAN SIC XL optionally with low-power mode and selective wake-up capability. The ISO 11898-1 standard (data link layer and physical coding sublayer) has passed successfully the final ballot and will be released, soon.

“With a data field of 1 byte to 2048 byte and a bit rate of up to 20 Mbit/s, CAN XL addresses new applications as IVN in road vehicles and as embedded (backbone) network in other industry domains,” explained Holger Zeltwanger. “CiA members develop the CAN XL ecosystem, which includes CANsec, a cybersecurity solution implementable in hardware.”

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• See also "Bus technical manager" (11/3/2024)

@CANopen #PAuto #Communcations

Bus technical manager.

Dr. Martin Merkel is the new Technical Manager at Can in Automation Association (CiA).

Dr. Martin Merkel

He is no stranger to CiA mmbers. He contributed especially to the CANopen CC (classic) and CANopen FD specifications.

He was involved in CANopen network designs in the Nineties, when he was working with CERN (CH), the European Organization for Nuclear Research, one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research.

When he was employed by Ixxat (now a brand of HMS Networks), he was active in several CANopen-related CiA technical groups.

This deep knowledge and experiences in CANopen, will serve and support CiA technical groups as the technical manager.

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@CANopen #PAuto #Communcations

Controller network conference.

The 18th international CAN Conference (iCC) organized by the nonprofit CAN in Automation (CiA) association will take place in Baden-Baden, (D) (May 14 and 15, 2024). The conference language will be English.

The program covers topics related to all three CAN generations: CAN CC (classic), CAN FD (flexible data rate), and CAN XL (extended data-field length) with a special focus on the CAN XL ecosystem. The keynote by Marko Moch from Cariad is titled “From FlexRay to CAN-XL: Migrating real-time high-performance networks into the future”. 

The other 21 presentations are grouped in seven sessions. Presented papers will be published in the conference proceedings. The complete iCC program is available online here.

The conference sponsored by esd electronics and Vector is accompanied by a tabletop exhibition. In the first evening a diner is planned. This gives the attendees an additional opportunity for social networking. Registration for participants and tabletop exhibition is possible by email to conferences@can-cia.org as long as there are enough places available.

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@CANopen @cariad_tech #PAuto #Europe

Refrigerant manufacturer is plant of the year.

FieldComm Group has announced that the Daikin Industries Ltd. Plant in Kashima, Japan, has been selected the 2023 Plant of the Year*. This is the 21st annual awarding of this unique international honor, presented to end user companies in the process automation industry to recognize the exceptional and valuable application of FOUNDATION™ Fieldbus, FDI™ and/or HART® Communication technologies.

The Daikin Kashima plant produces a wide range of fluorochemical products used in air conditioning equipment, automobiles, semiconductor production, and other applications. Advanced digital technologies have been applied at this site as part of a digital transformation (DX) initiative. The team has implemented HART-enabled instrumentation, and associated digital diagnostic tools and predictive analytics, all combined with artificial intelligence (AI), so the facility can transition from traditional time-based maintenance to more effective condition-based maintenance.

By first learning normal plant behavior from historized big data, the AI system can then perform nonlinear regression analysis on live data using a neural network, enabling the anomaly detection and prediction needed to address potential problems and avoid unexpected shutdowns.

Many valve positioners, pressure transmitters, and Coriolis flowmeters were already HART-enabled, and the team used Fast Ethernet-based HART converters to access other equipment, along with various DCS/PLC systems. Daikin officials point out that success of AI depends on the accuracy of available data, and HART devices made a difference in this regard.

“The HART signals of each device are wonderful data packed with the know-how of each device manufacturer. By having AI learn this along with various process data in the plant, it's more likely to be able to learn various signs of equipment anomalies,” said Masumi Yoshida of the Daikin Industries engineering department.

Condition-based maintenance at this plant over the past three years has reduced maintenance costs by an estimated US $400,000, and the team is looking to expand the technology to many more production sites around the world.

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* A complete list of recipients and their success stories are available here. 

• See also Process Plant of the Year (6/7/2023)

@FieldCommGroup #PAuto #Communications #Japan

New IO-Link Master.

Customers can reduce costs by including multiple IO-Link masters on one G3 Fieldbus platform.

Emerson has introduced a new Class A, IO-Link master that provides customers with a cost-effective solution for smart and analog sensor connectivity on the AVENTICSTM Series G3 Fieldbus platform. The G3 IO-Link Master is suitable for machine architectures with many sensors and pneumatic valves, and where it’s important to have reliable digital data communication between field devices, such as sensors and the machine controller. Application areas include automotive, tire manufacturing, food and beverage, packaging and metalworking.

IO-Link is an internationally standardized I/O technology (IEC 61131-9) for communication at the sensor/actuator level in machine control. During replacement, IO-Link devices can identify and configure themselves automatically, saving maintenance time. The IO-Link master provides pneumatic valve control through direct digital data communication with the machine controller. It offers event-based and I/O mapped diagnostics – both important predictive maintenance requirements for Industry 4.0 and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications.

By adding the IO-Link capabilities to our valve systems, our customers can include multiple IO-Link masters on only one G3 Fieldbus platform, saving hardware costs, thus enabling our customers to be future-proof and positioned for Industry 4.0/IIoT application requirements.

Customers can cut costs by reducing the number of communication nodes. G3 IO-Link master is optimized for sensor-rich applications with eight Class A ports per module to support multiple IO-Link smart and standard analog sensors. The IO-Link master can be distributed up to 30 meters away from G3. Together with the 20-meter IO-Link cable length maximum, the sensors can be located up to 50 total meters in total from the G3 Fieldbus platform. As a result, material cost is reduced, and machines are more streamlined because fewer cables are required.

The IO-Link Master offers a complete Emerson solution. Customers can experience the benefits of integrating IIoT into their systems by connecting to the IO-Link-capable Series AV03/AV05 and 500 valve systems, Series EV12 and EV18 electropneumatic pressure regulators, Series 617 Sentronic LP and Series 614 Sentronic PLUS proportional valves, Series ECD-IV and ECD-LV intelligent compact vacuum ejectors, Series SM6-AL distance measuring sensors, Series ST4-2P magnetic proximity sensors, Series PE5 and PE7 pressure sensors, and Series AF2 flow sensors. In addition, Class B IO-Link solutions can be supported with an optional T-adapter.

The G3 is the only fieldbus electronics platform for pneumatic valve systems that contains a graphical display used for configuration, commissioning, and diagnostics. It offers improvements in performance and reduces maintenance for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end-users alike. The G3 IO-Link Master can also be configurable with the G3 web server. With easy access to connections, the electronic platform is simple to assemble, install, commission, and maintain. G3's functionality allows programmable logic controllers to efficiently turn valves on and off, and to channel I/O data from sensors, lights, relays, individual valves, or other I/O devices via various industrial networks.

Further benefits include compatibility with the full G3 range of valve interfaces, including Series 501, 502, 503 (ISO15407-2), 2035, 2002, 2005, 2012 and 511, 512, 513 (ISO 5599-2). The G3 IO-Link Master supports the widely used protocols EtherNet/IPTM DLR and PROFINETTM. Additional protocols are also available.

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@AVENTICS @EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @mepaxIntPR #PAuto

Successful tests at technology day!

The 3rd CAN XL plugfest organized by the CiA (CAN in Automation) international users’ and manufacturers’ group took place in Troy,(MI USA) last month (Aprill 2023). CAN XL is the 3rd CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol generation. On the plugfest, IP (intellectual property) core implementations from Bosch, Kvaser, and Vector were tested on interoperability. On the 2nd CAN XL plugfest in 2022, a micro-controller prototype from NXP and an IP core from Fraunhofer/Cast have been already successfully tested.

In the afternoon session, different topologies have been used. Point-to-point and linear networks with short unterminated stubs achieved a data phase bit rate of up to 20 Mbit/s. The arbitration bit rate was 500 kbit/s. The connected nodes used CAN SIC (signal improvement capability) XL transceivers from Bosch, Infineon, NXP, and Texas Instruments. The achieved results are shown in the attached figure.

One day after the plugfest, CiA held a CAN XL technology day. The speakers introduced into the CAN XL ecosystem and several CiA members showed demonstrators (Bosch, C&S group, NXP, and Vector) as well as oscilloscopes with CAN XL decoder and trigger functionality (Keysight, Rohde & Schwarz, and Teledyne). The presentations covered base information on protocol and physical transmission as well as network design hints, embedded security (e.g. CANsec), etc.

CiA plans a similar event on June 22 2023, close to Paris.

@CANopen #PAuto #Communications

Industrial Ethernet & wireles grow but fieldbus declines!

Industrial network market shares 2023 according to HMS Networks.

Every year, HMS Networks analyzes the industrial network market to estimate the distribution of new connected nodes in factory automation. This year’s study shows that the industrial network market is expected to grow by 7% in 2023. Industrial Ethernet still shows the highest growth and now accounts for 68% of all new installed nodes (66% last year). Fieldbuses decline to 24% (27) while wireless grows to 7% market share (8% last year). PROFINET and EtherNet/IP share first place in the network rankings with 18% market share followed by the strong contender EtherCAT now at 12%.

HMS Networks annually presents their analysis of the industrial network market, focusing on new installed nodes within factory automation globally. As an independent supplier of solutions within Industrial ICT (Information and Communication Technology), HMS has a substantial insight into the industrial network market. The 2023 study includes estimated market shares and growth rates for fieldbuses, Industrial Ethernet and wireless technologies.

In the 2023 study, HMS concludes that the industrial network market continues to grow and that the total market growth in 2023 is expected to be +7%, confirming the continued importance of network connectivity in factories.

Industrial Ethernet is growing steadily.
Growing by 10%, Industrial Ethernet continues to take market share. Industrial Ethernet now makes up for 68% of the global market of new installed nodes in factory automation (compared to 66% last year). The head-to-head battle between PROFINET and EtherNet/IP continues as they lead the 2023 network rankings with 18% market share each, but EtherCAT also continues to grow strongly and is now in an unthreatened third place at 12% market share.

Regional  variations. • EtherNet/IP, PROFINET and EtherCAT are leading in Europe and the Middle East with PROFIBUS and Modbus-TCP as runners up. • The U.S. market is dominated by EtherNet/IP with EtherCAT developing strongly and gaining market share. • PROFINET leads a fragmented Asian market, followed by EtherNet/IP and strong contenders CC-Link/CC-Link IE Field, EtherCAT, PROFIBUS, and Modbus (RTU/TCP).

Fieldbuses are decreasing again.

Last year’s growth for Fieldbuses was temporary as new fieldbus installations decline with -5% in 2023. PROFIBUS leads the fieldbus rankings with 6% market share, but not with much as Modbus-RTU is close behind at 5%.

Together, fieldbuses account for 24% (27) of the market in 2023. Although the number of new fieldbus nodes are declining, a lot of devices, machines and factories will still be relying on the well-functioning and proven fieldbuses for many years to come.

Wireless grows fastest.
The Wireless growth accelerates to +22% in 2023, as more wireless industrial networking solutions are introduced in factory automation. Typical use cases include cable replacement applications, wireless machine access and connectivity to mobile industrial equipment.

Industrial networking is key for productivity and sustainability in manufacturing “Solid industrial network connectivity is key to achieve the manufacturing uptime which is needed to reach productivity and sustainability objectives in factory automation,” says Magnus Jansson, Product Marketing Director at HMS Networks, Business Unit Anybus. “Quality, security, safety, and gaining insights through device and machine data, are key drivers we see for the continued expansion of industrial networking.”

Scope.
The study includes HMS’ estimation for 2023 based on number of new installed nodes within Factory Automation. A node is defined as a machine or device connected to an industrial field network. The presented figures represent HMS’ consolidated view, considering insights from colleagues in the industry, their own sales statistics and overall perception of the market.

@hmsnetworks @mepaxIntPR #PAuto  #Communications #Fieldbus

New chair for fieldbus organisation.

PIUK (PROFIBUS, PROFINET, omlox and IO-Link in Great Britain) has announced that Chris McComb, Managing Director of the successful Systems Integrator iTech, has been appointed as their new Chairman.

Chris McComb

“It has been a wonderful time for me in my role of Chairman” said retiring Chairman Bob Squirrell. “We launched in the UK in 1993 with just 7 member companies and now number around 50, having successfully weathered the storm of the Covid pandemic which brought about many changes in how organisations such as ours carried out their day to day business. But here we are, almost at the other side and ready to start another year of promoting the world’s most successful industrial networking standards.

“Even though retired, I will be keeping an eye on the networking world, with a great sense of pride in what PUIK and its members have achieved. I know that Chris is ready to carry on and extend PIUK’s influence in the networking world. He will do a great job, of that I’m confident.” 

“I will endeavour to continue in Bob’s footsteps. I have known Bob for over 20 years, and he has been a foundation to our group. His leadership has forged a fantastic team, who through collaboration, support and best practice continue to support manufacturers, end-users and support organisations, such as iTech, to deliver successful and fully certified industrial network solutions across all sectors.” commented Chris. “It’s my plan to continue building the group through new membership and increasing the value to members with informative seminars, webinars and focussed regional events. With continual developments in our technologies, there is an abundance of support and guidance we can give.”

@ProfibusUK @AllThingsPROFI #PAuto #Communications #Britain

Profile for Robot Systems!

One of the core tasks of PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI) is the cross-manufacturer standardization of data interfaces for enabling easy, interoperable communication in automation systems. In addition to the tried-and-tested PROFIsafe, PROFIdrive, PROFIenergy and PA profiles, PI is now developing a profile for robot systems – an expansion of its technology portfolio for better operating new applications. To develop this new profile, PI has created a new “Profile for Robot Systems” working group.

In modern production lines, stationary robots are increasingly being integrated as a complete system so as to increase the degree of automation and reduce costs. As the production line is typically controlled by a PLC and the user carries out programming of the production line application using the programming system of the PLC, it’s necessary to control and program complete robot systems from different manufacturers for integration into the production line in a uniform way using the PLC programming system.

Against this backdrop, a uniform data interface between the PLC and robot controllers needs to be defined in order to make robot programming uniform – and therefore more efficient – for PLC programmers and PLC suppliers. This data interface has to make it possible to write robot programs fully within the PLC. As a result, the PLC manufacturer then only needs a single robot library based on this data interface and the robot manufacturer only has to implement a single interpreter for their robot controller. The robot functions are to be called over the data interface, and the required robot status information reported back to the PLC.

The primary target group of this interface concept are PLC and robot programmers who are implementing a machine or production line (OEM), including robots, but machine operators and system owners (end customers) benefit from this as well.

For implementation, all previously known robot functions are to be defined in this data interface in a manufacturer-neutral way, where the focus lies on application handling. The preliminary work of the “Standard Robot Command Interface” project group is to be used as a basis here.

@ProfibusUK @AllThingsPROFI #PAuto #Communications

Table-top exhibition to accompany seminar.

The slow take off after almost two years of closure and zooming includes the return of face to face conferences and exhibitions.

Exhibitors include: AJM Engineering Management Belcom Endress + Hauser HMS Industrial Networks Hitex Procentec Siemens WAGO

Taking place at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham (GB) on November 17th 2021, The PROFIBUS and PROFINET International (PI) free-to-attend seminar will be supported by an exhibition with live product demonstrations. This will be of great value to Designers, Production/System Engineers, Instrument Technicians/Engineers and C&I Engineers involved in the design, operation and maintenance of modern automated factories and process plant.

The event addresses key practical issues arising from the use of digital communications technologies in process industry and automated manufacturing applications, with particular attention to Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

A further seminar and exhibition is scheduled in Scotland's second city, Glasgow, 24th March 2022.

@ProfibusUK  @AllThingsPROFI #Pauto #IIoT #Fieldbus #Britain

Videos of conference available.

The CAN in Automation (CiA) association has announced access to the video-recorded presentations of the 17th iCC. This way, anyone who missed the conference is still able to experience it. Get the link to all iCC videos, including the CiA webinars, presentation slides, and iCC proceedings.

In June 2021, the first digital international CAN Conference (iCC) closed its “windows”. It was the first time that CiA had organised an online conference. On the four-day 17th iCC, CAN experts talked about history, presence, and future of CAN. The theme was “From Classical CAN via CAN FD to CAN XL”. About 100 engineers from 35 companies attended this event.

For those, who missed the conference, the opportunity to watch the video-recorded presentations is available. CiA offers for a fee of €200 euro for non-members and €150 for members access to the needed links for all iCC videos including the iCC accompanying webinars plus presentation slides. The iCC proceedings (€96 euro) are available for those, who just want to read the information provided on the conference.

Applications my be made by email here. 

Those who first want to get an impression of the iCC, CiA also provides preview videos of all iCC papers and webinars free of charge on its Youtube channel: 

• 17th international CAN Conference: Preview of papers
• 17th international CAN Conference: Preview of webinars

@CANopen  #PAuto #Communications

Multiprotocol support.

PROFINET, EtherNetIP und EtherCAT supported.

The connection of SoM modules (Stack on Module) has been extended by port to the STM32 MCU family from ST Microelectronics. With the firmware extension “µGOAL”, all derivatives of the STM32F, STM32G, STM32L and STM32H families can now be connected to the SoM (Stack on Module) via SPI. The user is now able to offer PROFINET (incl. MRP), EtherNetIP (incl. DLR) and EtherCAT for all named derivatives.

The firmware extension µGOAL describes a software package that enables the integration of the SoM module in applications without using a complete GOAL framework platform. As a result, for example. 8 bit CPUs with 2KB RAM can also be connected via SPI with the multi-protocol support technology SoM (Stack on Module). This makes it possible to enable low-cost or low-performance CPUs to be integrated into PROFINET, EtherNetIP and EtherCAT environments quickly and easily. µGOAL mimics the required functionality from the GOAL framework, which is specifically required by the application controller framework. It is configurable in a number of ways to ensure compatibility with a wide variety of destinations. Most of the CCM-specific examples for fieldbus applications can be reused without modification.

By using the module, no investment costs in the form of licenses are necessary. The module is cUL / CE certified. The PROFINET, EtherNetIP and EtherCAT protocols are “PRE-Certified” and therefore easy to integrate.

An extensive tool chain such as the ICE (Industrial Communication Explorer - is included free of charge) and the ICC (Industrial Communication Creator - optionally available) make integration much easier.

#port #PAuto #fieldbus

Bus letter!

The June issue 2021 of the CAN Newsletter magazine is published and available for downloading now. 

Besides a range of other topics, it contains for example articles about CANopen FD (e.g. use cases and why to choose CANopen FD, devices identification with LSS), a company portrait about Bürkert and CANopen, CANopen application reports, an interview with Iveco, an article about the open-source Sigrok project written by Ken Tindell as well as part 1 of a comparative analysis of Classical CAN, CAN FD, and Ethernet for networked control systems.

@CANopen #PAuto 

Conference now online!

Deutsch

Originally, The 17th international CAN Conference (iCC) was planned as two-day conference in Baden-Baden (Germany). However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it was postponed. In February, CiA has re-scheduled the conference. 

The iCC now takes place from June 14 to June 17 as an online event. The motto is “From Classical CAN via CAN FD to CAN XL”. Besides the regular iCC conference program, there is also a supporting program.  

The CiA open-house session comprises several open CiA technical meetings on June 15.  These open meetings give members and non-members the opportunity to have an inside look to some CiA technical groups. 

Additionally, CiA has scheduled some webinars on June 16 and June 17.

For both kinds of supporting program (the open-house meetings and the webinars), participants need to register. The participation is free of charge – also for non-members.

The iCC program comprises several sessions. 

The keynote by Carsten Schanze (Volkswagen) is scheduled for June 15. His presentation is titled “Future of CAN from prospective of an OEM” (original equipment manufacturer). 

The regular sessions cover CAN physical layer issues, the CAN XL protocol, CAN FD topics, classic CANopen and CANopen FD, CAN engineering, CAN XL higher layers, and CAN security solutions. 

“Of high interest are the CAN XL related papers,” said Holger Zeltwanger, CiA Managing Director and iCC program committee chair. “Nevertheless, there are also other important presentations – the introduction of CAN FD Light is one of them.”

Because the 17th iCC is planned as virtual event, the networking of CAN fellows is limited. To overcome this, CiA organizes after each of the four conference days a one-hour CiA CAN Coffee (C3) session for answering questions regarding the presentations of the day, but also to discuss other CAN-related topics. The access to the C3 is free for all iCC conference attendees.

“The iCC is a must for those who like to get first-hand information about new developments in CAN technology,” stated Zeltwanger. CiA has already started the iCC registration and booking for early birds. The registered attendees may access all sessions during the four half-days of the iCC 2021.

@CANopen #PAuto #Communications #BUS

Continued growth for industrial networks despite pandemic - Report.

The study concludes that the industrial network market is showing signs of regained stability and HMS expects the total market to grow by 6% in 2021.

Every year, HMS Networks carries out a study* of the industrial network market to analyze the distribution of new connected nodes in factory automation. This year’s study shows that, despite the Corona pandemic, the industrial network market is expected it to grow by 6% in 2021. Industrial Ethernet still shows the highest growth and now has 65% of new installed nodes (64% last year), while fieldbuses are at 28% (30). Wireless networks continue to climb and are now at 7%. PROFINET passes EtherNet/IP at the top of the network rankings with 18% market share compared to 17%.

Market shares 2021 according to HMS Networks – fieldbus, industrial Ethernet and wireless.

The study concludes that the industrial network market is showing signs of regained stability and HMS expects the total market to grow by 6% in 2021.HMS Networks now presents their annual analysis of the industrial network market, focusing on new installed nodes within factory automation globally. As an independent supplier of solutions within Industrial ICT (Information and Communication Technology), HMS has a substantial insight into the industrial network market. The 2021 study includes estimated market shares and growth rates for fieldbuses, industrial Ethernet and Wireless technologies.

The study concludes that the industrial network market is showing signs of regained stability and HMS expects the total market to grow by 6% in 2021.

Industrial Ethernet is growing steadily
Growing by 8%, Industrial Ethernet continues to take market share. Industrial Ethernet now makes up for 65% of the global market of new installed nodes in Factory Automation (compared to 64% last year). EtherNet/IP and PROFINET are fighting for first place, but this year PROFINET passes EtherNet/IP at the top of the network rankings with 18% market share compared to 17%. EtherCAT continues to perform well globally and now matches the leading fieldbus PROFIBUS at 8% market share. Modbus TCP is next at 5% market share and together with fieldbus brother Modbus RTU, these Modbus technologies now account for 10% of the market, confirming their continued importance in factory installations globally.

Fieldbus decline halted
The ongoing fieldbus decline reported by HMS in recent years is almost halted with a fieldbus decrease of only -1% in 2021, as factories tend to stick to existing technologies to a higher degree in uncertain times, such as during the pandemic. Fieldbuses are now at 28% market share of the total amount of new installed nodes (30% last year). PROFIBUS is still the clear fieldbus leader at 8% followed by Modbus-RTU at 5% share and CC-Link at 4%.

Wireless is here to stay
Wireless continues to grow rapidly at a rate of 24%. Wireless now has 7% market share but the market still awaits the full impact of 5G in factories. With ongoing global activities about wireless cellular technologies as enablers for next level smart manufacturing, HMS expects that market demand will increase for wirelessly connected devices and machines to be included in the less cabled and flexible automation architectures of the future.

Regional network variations
EtherNet/IP and PROFINET are leading in Europe and the Middle East with PROFIBUS and EtherCAT as runners up. Other popular networks are Modbus (RTU/TCP) and Ethernet POWERLINK. The U.S. market is dominated by EtherNet/IP with EtherCAT gaining some market share. PROFINET and EtherNet/IP lead a fragmented Asian market, followed by strong contenders CC-Link/CC-Link IE Field, PROFIBUS, EtherCAT and Modbus (RTU/TCP).

* The study includes HMS’ estimation for 2021 based on number of new installed nodes within Factory Automation. A node is defined as a machine or device connected to an industrial field network. The presented figures represent HMS’ consolidated view, considering insights from colleagues in the industry, our own sales statistics and overall perception of the market.

@hmsnetworks @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Fieldbus #Ethernet #Wireless

Draft spec issued.

The CAN in Automation association (CiA) has released their 110 CAN common mode choke specification as Draft Specification Proposal (DSP).

 

Electromagnetic emission from a device through the CAN transceiver can be filtered by means of common mode chokes, thus limiting unwanted high-frequency noise on the CAN network lines. Another reason for using a common mode choke is attempting to improve the susceptibility (immunity) of the CAN transceiver to electromagnetic disturbances on the CAN network. While the above-mentioned effects of the common mode choke are beneficial, unexpected results can occur under certain conditions. EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) susceptibility can be degraded in some frequency ranges, bus-signal integrity can be worsened, and very high-transient voltages under bus-failure conditions can be generated.

 

In worst case, this can lead to a CAN transceiver damage. Care should be taken in the choice of common mode choke (winding type, core type, and inductance value), along with the termination and protection scheme of the device and on the network-lines in order to prevent a damage on the CAN transceiver or other network components.

 

This 14-pages document specifies requirements and test methods of the mechanical and electrical parameters of common mode chokes to be used in Classical CAN networks and CAN FD networks. The electromagnetic compatibility evaluation complies with the IEC 62228-3:2019 standard.

@CANopen #PAuto #Communications #BUS

Bus error detection capabilities.

The Institute of Computer-Architecture and System-programming (ICAS) of the University of Kassel has examined the CAN XL data link layer protocol specified in CiA 610-1. More than half of a year, Prof. Dr. Josef Börcsök and his team investigated in the evaluation of the error detection mechanisms provided by the CAN XL protocol. The final research report comprises a qualitative evaluation of the residual error probability, too.

Graphical representation of RER values in an exemplary CAN XL network

“The report concludes that CAN XL is at least as reliable as competing network technologies,” said Holger Zeltwanger, CiA Managing Director. “This is a very conservative estimation.”

CAN in Automation (CiA) members have developed the CAN XL data link layer specification. It is available in the CiA 610-1 CAN XL data link layer and physical signaling document. The data link layer (DLL), also known as layer-2 in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model, provides the functional and procedural means to transfer frames between network entities (nodes) and to detect errors that occur in the physical layer. Frames or DLL protocol data units (PDUs) do not cross the boundaries of a network segment. Inter-network routing and global addressing are higher-layer functions, allowing data-link protocols to focus on local delivery, addressing, and media arbitration. In this way, the DLL is analog to the neighborhood traffic police; it arbitrates between parties competing for access to a medium.

CAN XL, the third CAN generation, features two CRC polynomials, stuff-bit checks, and frame format checks to detect errors in CAN XL frames. In the summary, the researchers concluded: “The CAN XL protocol improves reliability by using cascaded Cyclic Redundancy Checks (CRCs). In that, the MAC frame has two CRC fields: the 13-bit Preface-CRC (PCRC) and the 32-bit Frame-CRC (FCRC). The CRCs are cascaded so that the FCRC also protects the PCRC. Together, both CRCs can detect any five randomly distributed bit errors.” This compares with a true Hamming Distance of 6 with no shortcuts. “The format checks and the stuff-bit checks additionally ensure the detection of errors in a frame. Here, not only the errors in the format fields and in the stuff bits are recognized, but partly also the errors in the remaining bits, which can entail the corruption of the values in the format fields and stuff bits.” The researchers developed new formulas for the residual error rate (RER) calculation, in order to cover the extended error detection measures in CAN XL. With them you can calculate the RER for a given CAN XL network. The figure shows an example as provided in the research report.

The researchers emphasize “that due to the worst-case assumptions of the values of some parameters in the development of the formula, as well as in the calculation of the final values, a pessimistic estimate of the RER” is given. This means, the calculated RER values are conservative.

To make the estimation of the upper bound value more precise, the channel model can be improved, to match better to the errors that occur in a specific environment, like burst length, duration of a glitch, and bit error rate. Further the estimation can consider more features of the FCRC and PCRC polynomials. When using the formula to calculate the values, it should be considered that the FCRC for the block length of up to 274 bit features a minimum Hamming Distance of 8. For block length with more than 275 bit, the Hamming Distance is in minimum 6. This means, five randomly distributed bit errors are detected.

@CANopen @presseunikassel #PAuto #Standards