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ODVA has published new editions of the DeviceNet and EtherNet/IP Specifications, bringing a range of enhancements aimed at further increasing ease of configuration. Specifically, over 20 Specification Enhancements were integrated into these next editions, allowing more comprehensive and useful information to be contained within EDS files, adding DTM configuration options, and facilitating the deployment of these networks withincreased flexibility.
The EDS enhancements allow the key features and benefits of DeviceNet to be more readily exploited. The update enables variable I/O sizes to be specified within EDS files, provides a means for the contents of connection entries to be described, and allows Device Classification section of the EDS file to be used to specify whether or not a module is a DeviceNet module. All of these enhancements will simplify device configuration in a network. In addition, for both the DeviceNet specification and the wider CIP specification, the limitation where some text strings are English language only has been removed, allowing local languagesto be used.
Further enhancements to DeviceNet include improved diagnostics capabilities, the extending of power cable lengths from the previous 3 m maximum up to a new 39 m limit, and the ability to use the innovative“flat media” cables and connectors.
With EtherNet/IP, ODVA has addressed its implementation in more challenging environments where the use of sealed connectors is an absolute necessity. Previously, the specification defined the use of MT-RJ connectors, but the enhanced specification allows the additional use of LC sealed connectors.
As a final enhancement, ODVA and FDT have completed a key phase of their cooperative work, and a DTM configuration option has now been included within the CIP specification, adding the capability for using DTMs for device configuration, without removing any of the existing options.
