Ethernet Powerlink Product Overview

In 2001, ETHERNET Powerlink (EPL) was the first available industrial real-time Ethernet protocol. Since the end of 2003, the EPL version 2 extends the basic EPL communication mechanisms by the approved CANopen based communication concept. Because of this, EPL version 2 now has powerful features, like the interchangeability of devices and an enhanced flexibility combined with a fast and secure real-time communication.

Protocol Software

MN/CN Protocol Software for Powerlink

Since 2003 IXXAT develops Ethernet Powerlink (EPL) products and published a complete EPL protocol stack according to the Powerlink version 2 specification in the middle of 2004 as one of the first vendors. The IXXAT Powerlink protocol software allows the development of controlled nodes and combined managing/controlled nodes. The software provides all functions defined as "mandatory" in the Powerlink V2 specification and many optional functions.

The IXXAT EPL protocol stack is available as generic version, which can be easily adapted to various hardware platforms and operating systems. The scope of delivery already includes the code necessary to run the stack on the reference target, enabling a fast and easy start of the development.

IXXAT developed the Powerlink software in close cooperation with the leading suppliers of Ethernet Powerlink devices, like Bernecker & Rainer, Lenze and Hirschmann.

Safety Protocol Software for Powerlink

The Ethernet Powerlink safety protocol (EPLsafety) is independent of the used transmission media, but it was developed by the EPSG with a focus on using it with Powerlink as transport layer. EPLsafety supports the secure data transmission between nodes of a safety domain using unsecured networks. Using EPLsafety, the safety integrity level 3 (SIL 3) can be achieved, as defined in IEC 61508. The EPLsafety protocol stack from IXXAT allows the development of safety nodes as well as the development of a safety configuration manager, required for the supervision and update of the network configuration. The protocol software is pre-certified by the German TÜV which speeds up the final certification of the customer product.

IP Core

FPGA IP Core with Powerlink Managing Node Functionality

The Powerlink FPGA IP Core from IXXAT enables the fast and cost-effective implementation of the Powerlink Managing Node (MN) functionality into any host system. Major advantages of the FPGA IP Core are the high flexibility, the vendor independence regarding the network interface and the low development costs. Besides the basic Powerlink functionality, the MN IP Core includes a standard Ethernet controller, an Ethernet Hub and a PCI controller for the host communication.

Tools

Powerlink Configuration Framework

The Ethernet Powerlink configuration framework enables the integration of projecting and configuration functions into OEM tools, like PLC programming environments or other system tools, by maintaining a consistent look & feel. The framework provides all necessary components for the creation and administration of configuration data within a Powerlink project.

PC Board, Modules and Gateways

PCI Interface Board for Ethernet Powerlink

IXXAT's EPL PCI interface board enables the connection of a PC-based host system to an Ethernet Powerlink system. The board provides two independent Ethernet interfaces, which can be used either as Managing node or Controlled Node. The entire EPL functionality is implemented on the board. Data exchange with the host system is handled via DMA over the PCI bus. An API is provided for that on the host system. The Powerlink PCI board is also available in a compact PCI (cPCI) form factor.

Powerlink Module

To enable the fast and cost-effective implementation of Controlled Nodes, IXXAT offers a FPGA based Powerlink module. This "single chip" solution serves as a communication controller between the host CPU and the Powerlink network. The connection between the module and the host is implemented via a shared memory interface (DPRAM) or by a serial interface. By using the module polling response times of less than 2 µs and cycle times of less than 500 µs can be achieved.

For the evaluation of the EPL module IXXAT offers a carrier board, providing the power supply and all necessary interfaces for the connection with various host systems. The carrier board also allows the direct connection of processor modules from Phytec and Spectrum Digital.

Ethernet Powerlink / CANopen Gateway

Due to its high band width and the relationship with CANopen, Powerlink is well suited for the extension of or integration in CANopen networks. Using the EPL/CANopen gateway, exchange of process and service data between CANopen and Powerlink devices can be achieved very easily. This enables the usage of EPL e.g. as a backbone network to connect several CANopen sub-networks.

Services

Code Introduction

For the Powerlink protocol stack IXXAT offers a detailed one or two day source code introduction. During this introduction, the data flows, interfaces and processes are explained in detail. Furthermore, questions with regards to the stack adaptation to the customer target can be answered and first code adaptations can be performed.

Development Services and Technical Consultation

IXXAT supports the customers regarding the specification of the Powerlink device or system. The customer will benefit from IXXAT's comprehensive know-how in the field of industrial communication which results in short development cycles. Furthermore, the Powerlink software can be adapted to the customer requirements or be implemented and tested with the customer target hardware and application.