There are many things to consider choosing an EtherNet/IP network technology, and many options may be deceptive. Before you start an installation, there are certain things you should know about ‘standard’ and ‘standards-based.’
For example, to ensure you’re getting standard networking technology, it’s best to go through a set list of questions with your vendor beforehand. This includes questions such as, ‘are the automation decides conformance-tested?’ and ‘can I use my standard network management tools to monitor my network?’
Download the Industrial IP Advantage networking technology cheat sheet for at-a-glance comparisons, a list of questions to ask vendors and links to additional articles: http://www.industrial-ip.org/knowledge-center/resources/how-tos/network-technology-how-to
Links:
- EtherNet/IP: Preserving the Simplicity of Ethernet: http://www.industrial-ip.org/industrial-ip/ethernet-ip/ethernet-ip-preserving-the-simplicity-of-ethernet
- Best-in-Class Thinking for Industrial Networks: http://www.industrial-ip.org/industrial-ip/ethernet-ip/cip-on-tcp-ip
- How to Design a Structured Approach to Cabling: http://www.industrial-ip.org/industrial-ip/network-fabric/how-to-design-a-structured-approach-to-cabling
- EtherNet/IP Enables Unrestricted Flow of I/O Data: http://www.industrial-ip.org/industrial-ip/ethernet-ip/ethernet-ip-enables-unrestricted-flow-of-io-data
- EtherNet/IP for Process Control: http://www.industrial-ip.org/industrial-ip/ethernet-ip/ethernet-ip-for-process-control
