Articles

From Hardware-Centric to Software-Defined Industrial devices need to communicate reliably — across networks, between systems, and under real-time constraints. But adding support for multiple fieldbus or Ethernet-based protocols has traditionally been both complex and time-consuming. Developers are often faced with fragmented solutions, high learning curves, and limited flexibility. That’s why the recent partnership between RT-Labs […]

Predictive Maintenance (PdM) uses real-time data and AI to detect issues before failures, reducing downtime and costs. Its success depends on fast, reliable industrial communication.

Is specialized hardware for industrial networking on its way out? In many cases – YES. Here are five reasons why many leading protocols no longer need dedicated chips or boards to deliver needed network performance.

The Cyber Resilience Act, effective December 2024 with obligations from December 2027, introduces robust cybersecurity requirements for products with digital elements. This regulation aims to enhance security across lifecycles, mandating secure design, lifecycle updates, and third-party certifications. How will this impact industrial communication protocols?

In industrial networking, ensuring reliable, efficient, and secure communication is essential. Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) play a critical role in achieving these objectives, particularly when integrated with industrial protocols. This article gives an overview on how VLANs function within industrial networks.

Dedicated EtherCAT enabled PLCs have long been the industry standard, but software-based solutions like SOEM offer flexibility, cost savings, and the ability to optimize control using C programming. Understanding these differences will help in choosing the right solution for your needs.

As industries become increasingly connected, the need for robust cybersecurity measures within industrial networks increases. Industrial Ethernet, an essential component of modern automation, not only enables seamless communication but also carries the responsibility of ensuring secure data exchange between interconnected devices. Cyber threats are evolving at a rapid pace, and the vulnerabilities in operational technology (OT) can lead to substantial operational and financial losses. This article explores the key principles of cybersecurity in industrial Ethernet and how RT-Labs’ FSoE product provides an excellent example of security implemented at the foundational level.

In this article, we’ll walk through a Lua script that not only calculates the minimum, maximum, and average time deltas between Profinet packets but also computes additional statistics to provide a deeper understanding of packet timing variations and network performance.

Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) is a set of IEEE standards that enhances Ethernet with deterministic, low-latency communication for precise industrial operations.

RT-Labs is proud to announce the release of its FailSafe over EtherCAT (FSoE) stack, now available in a SIL3 certified version. This new version brings enhanced safety and reliability to industrial communication, offering a pre-certified solution that significantly simplifies the certification process for end products.

SPE is a game-changer for many industrial applications. By simplifying cabling, extending communication distances, and providing high-speed data transmission, SPE addresses many of the challenges faced in industrial environments.

This article delves into the technical aspects, benefits, and real-world applications of IO-Link, drawing insights from industry documentation and practical knowledge.

Explore the power of Profinet MRP for industrial networks, ensuring continuous operation with its fast recovery and network resilience. A concise guide to boosting efficiency and reliability in automation systems.

U-Phy is notable for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and comprehensive multiprotocol support. Here’s how these benefits make U-Phy a vital component for your next product.

Exploring the Core Principles of Profinet: A Short Introduction

A simple, step-by-step guide to downloading and running a Profinet software stack within one hour.

In the ever-evolving landscape of industrial automation and networking, certain technologies have stood the test of time, proving their worth repeatedly. One such technology is Modbus TCP, a classic protocol that continues to be a cornerstone in modern industrial solutions.

Using RTOS in Industrial Networking Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) play a critical role in industrial networking by ensuring tasks are processed within strict time constraints. Such systems prioritize high-priority tasks, ensuring deterministic and timely responses, which is vital in automated environments where delays can lead to inefficiencies or even hazardous situations. Industrial applications include automotive, […]

PROFINET seamlessly integrates IT and industrial automation needs through three distinct communication methods: Standard TCP/IP Communication: Ideal for non-deterministic tasks such as parameterization, audio/video streaming, and data exchange with higher-level IT systems. Real-Time (RT) Channel in PROFINET: This approach circumvents standard TCP/IP layers to provide deterministic communication, typically within 1-10 ms, making it suitable for […]

EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology) is a powerful tool for real-time industrial Ethernet applications. One of its standout features is the Distributed Clock Synchronization, which ensures precise synchronization across devices. Let’s dive into the implementation process. 1. Slave Onboard Pulse Generators:Before delving into distributed clocks, it’s essential to understand the ec_dcsync0() and ec_sync01() functions. […]