EtherCAT^® networks – Basics

EtherCAT^® is mainly used in automation technology for sending and receiving process data. The bus system was developed by Beckhoff Automation GmbH and is supported by the ETG (EtherCAT^® Technology Group) user group.

EtherCAT^® is based on the standard Ethernet communication system. The high flexibility and compatibility of Ethernet is combined with real-time capability in EtherCAT^®.

EtherCAT^® is suitable for different applications:

• I/O communication
• Motion control
• Exchange of safety-related process data
• Integration of sensors
• Integration of sensors/actuators of the safety technology
• Visualization and diagnostics

• Layer structure
• Data exchange