1. Introduction
8 RC700 / RC90 Option Fieldbus I/O Rev.14
1.4 EtherNet/IP
1.4.1 Overview of EtherNet/IP
EtherNet/IP is a fieldbus network that provides easy interconnection between control
devices (PLC, PC, sensor, actuator, etc.).
EtherNet/IP was developed by Allen-Bradley as an open communication standard to
connect various field devices (sensor, actuator, Robot Controller, etc.). Because of the
open communication standard, EtherNet/IP users can easily construct a multi-vendor
system with various devices developed around the world.
Master Device
Motor Driver
from Company A
Motor Driver
from Company B
Intelligent I/O
from Company C
Intelligent I/O
from Company D
Photo Sensor
from Company E
Analog Device
from Company G
HMI Device
from Company F
Ethernet/IP Network
1.4.2 Features of EtherNet/IP
Reduced Wiring
Compared with parallel wiring, EtherNet/IP employs a standard Ethernet cable which
substantially reduces the number of necessary wires, wiring time and cost.
Detachable communication connectors provide you with simple wiring between nodes and
easy network separation or reconstruction.
Specified environment-resistance cables allow you to construct an environment-resistant
system at low cost.
You can use the general Ethernet hub or Ethernet switch for EtherNet/IP.
However, be sure to use a product complying with the industrial standards or a noise-
resistant Ethernet cable (STP cable). If you use an office use product or UTP cable, it
may causes communication errors and may not offer the proper performance.
Open Standard (Multi-vendor)
Due to an open communication standard, various devices from many manufacturers are
available. Standardized communication connectors provide you with easy network
construction.
Maintenance spare parts stored on site (factory, etc.) can be reduced because different
manufacturers’ devices can be used in case of a breakdown. Similar products are available
around the world due to a global standard EtherNet/IP.
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