SIOL-EI8B-USER-M
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Description
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Version 1, May 2022
3.3. EtherNet/IP
3.3.1. Communication
EtherNet/IP is based on a Producer/Consumer communication model for which the multicast Ethernet
communication enables fast “Report by exception” responses.
The connection to the control scanner can only be established in an EtherNet/IP network via 10/100MBit/s
Ethernet switches.
NOTE
The maximum permissible cable length to the end point without any auxiliary devices is 100m [328ft].
A 2-port switch is integrated into the fieldbus device. This switch sends multicast messages to all switch
ports and behaves in this case like a hub. When Unmanaged Switches are used, more multicast users
(EtherNet/IP users) are added to the system, resulting in more multicast traffic for the users. Thus, a
higher amount of bandwidth is used in the system which results in longer response times as each user
must evaluate messages that are not addressed to the user.
Excessive network traffic may result in missed messages and RPI response delays which may interrupt
communication.
It is therefore recommended to split the entire network into several segments by means of several
switches. By choosing suitable RPI times and switches, high-speed networks can be decoupled from
non-time-critical systems.
NOTE
A Managed switch should be considered for network segments that include traffic unrelated to the
IO-Link segment.
Managed switches are recommended for high-speed control systems. To manage the multicast traffic,
the switch must support the IGMP Snooping function (Internet Group Management Protocol). For the
connection of a control system to a large plant or company network, consider using a virtual LAN on a
switch, or a router.
Unicast connections
The device is able to establish data connections using Unicast connections. Unicast connections may
result in reduced traffic on the network. Please select the best type of connection for your application.
