EtherCAT, or Ethernet for Control Automation Technology, is a technology based on the standard Ethernet protocol, developed specifically with industrial automation in mind. Its single master/many slave architecture helps to ensure real-time operation and avoid delays. It also demands minimal data requirements for each device and low costs of implementation.
EtherCAT technology poses several great advantages over the standard Ethernet protocol. These include drastically increased speed, reduced data traffic, decreased hardware cost, and more and more accurate data due to a distributed clock mechanism. These advantages make it a desirable choice for industrial automation whose primary objectives are lower costs and higher efficiency.
Today, development cycles need to be shortened and costs need to be reduced in order for companies to remain competitive. At the same time, raw materials, energy, and manpower are becoming more expensive. How to improve process cost and efficiency without affecting product quality? The answer to this challenge is automation.
Automation is the use of data-driven control systems, whether computers, process controllers, or robots, to operate industrial processes or machinery in a way that reduces the need for human action. It is proven to increase productivity, provide optimum cost of operation, improve product quality, reduce routine checks, and raise the level of safety. When combined with EtherCAT technology, automation ensures increased efficiency and lower costs in all areas of manufacturing.
A fundamental principle behind EtherCAT technology is “processing on the fly,” which is what gives it a speed advantage over the standard Ethernet protocol. In order to give computers the ability to capitalize on the increased quantity of cycles and decreased cycle times that an optimized EtherCAT system can offer, SP Industrial provides advanced memory solutions that are designed to excel at the task.
SSDs: MDC350S series with 3D TLC flash and 3K PE cycles; MDC550S series with pSLC flash and 3K PE cycles
CFast Cards: CFX350S series with 3D TLC flash and 3K PE cycles; CFX550S series with pSLC flash and 3K PE cycles
MicroSD Cards: SDT3R0 series with 3D TLC flash and 3K PE cycles; SDT5R0 series with pSLC flash and 3K PE cycles
These high-performance and large-capacity memory solutions are an ideal complement to a variety of IPCs, including control cabinets, embedded PCs, panel PCs, and control panels to boost EtherCAT system performance.
Given the production challenges and customer demands of today, automation is a sound solution for the future. The popularity of EtherCAT systems is increasing amongst engineers desiring a real-time and robust high-speed network for industrial controls. To be the most efficient, the latest technology is necessary. SP Industrial can help businesses maximize their efficiency with our advanced SSDs, CFast cards, and microSD cards.