
Appendix E: Backward Compatibility
55 (70)
E
Backward Compatibility
The Anybus CompactCom M40 series of industrial network modules have significantly better
performance and include more functionality than the modules in the Anybus CompactCom 30
series. The 40 series is backward compatible with the 30 series in that an application developed
for the 30 series should be possible to use with the 40 series, without any major changes. Also
it is possible to mix 30 and 40 series modules in the same application.
This appendix presents the backwards compatibility issues that have to be considered for Any-
bus CompactCom 40 Modbus-TCP, when designing with both series in one application, or when
adapting a 30 series application for the 40 series.
E.1
Initial Considerations
There are two options to consider when starting the work to modify a host application developed
for Anybus CompactCom 30-series modules to also be compatible with the 40-series modules:
•
Add support with as little work as possible i.e. reuse as much as possible of the current
design.
–
This is the fastest and easiest solution but with the drawback that many of the new fea-
tures available in the 40-series will not be enabled (e.g. enhanced and faster commu-
nication interfaces, larger memory areas, and faster communication protocols).
–
You have to check the hardware and software differences below to make sure the host
application is compatible with the 40-series modules. Small modifications to your cur-
rent design may be needed.
•
Make a redesign and take advantage of all new features presented in the 40-series.
–
A new driver and host application example code are available at
to support the new communication protocol.This driver supports both 30-
series and 40-series modules.
–
You have to check the hardware differences below and make sure the host application
is compatible with the 40-series modules.
This documentation only deals with differences between the 30-series and the 40-series. For a
description of new and enhanced functionality in the Anybus CompactCom 40-series, please
consult our support pages, where you can find all documentation.
Link to support page:
.
Anybus
®
CompactCom
™
40 Modbus-TCP
®
Transparent Ethernet Network Guide
SCM-1202-022 1.1