Ethernet Powerlink
POWERLINK Product Overview
In 2001, Ethernet POWERLINK was the first available industrial real-time Ethernet protocol. Since the end of 2003, the POWERLINK version 2 extends the basic POWERLINK
communication mechanisms by the approved CANopen based communication concept. Because of this, POWERLINK
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
Since 2003 IXXAT develops Ethernet POWERLINK products and published a complete POWERLINK 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 POWERLINK 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.
The openSAFETY protocol stack is an implementation of the openSAFETY specification and is provided free of charge by B&R under
a BSD license. The protocol stack was developed by IXXAT together with B&R and is used for B&R products, which are already SIL-3
certified. The protocol stack can be downloaded free of charge from the IXXAT webpage.
POWERLINK 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
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
IXXAT's POWERLINK PCI interface board "PL-IB 300/PCI" 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 POWERLINK 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.
With the Industrial Ethernet Module for POWERLINK, IXXAT offers a complete FPGA based Controlled Node
according to the latest POWERLINK standard. The module allows the flexible POWERLINK connection of intelligent devices,
like I/O modules, frequency converters, drives and other components of automation technology, with transparent costs.
The connection between the module and the application CPU can be made by using the shared memory interface
or the serial interface.
Due to the high bandwidth of POWERLINK and the similarity to CANopen, POWERLINK is well suited for the integration
or extension of CANopen networks. With the aid of the POWERLINK / CANopen Gateway, process and service data can be
easily exchanged between POWERLINK and CANopen devices. Due to this, POWERLINK can be used as e.g. backbone network
for connecting 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.
IXXAT offers a two days training for POWERLINK which can be performed as in-house
seminar at customer site.
IEEE 1588 Protocol Stack Version 1.04