Ethernet cable redundancy

Compact Link Selector from B&R Industrial Automation Corp. connects Ethernet Powerlink controlled nodes, adding redundancy and reliability. Process control and manufacturing automation often require cable redundancy and long cable runs, but closing a ring can cause cable feedback. Ethernet Powerlink protocol and double cabling can be made into unlimited tree structures. This is a July 2008 Control Engineering North American print edition Product Exclusive.

By Control Engineering Staff July 11, 2008

Add redundancy and reliability with the B&R Industrial Automation Compact Link Selector. It connects Ethernet Powerlink controlled nodes.

Compact Link Selector from B&R Industrial Automation Corp . connects Ethernet Powerlink controlled nodes, adding redundancy and reliability. Process control and manufacturing automation often require cable redundancy and long cable runs, but closing a ring can cause cable feedback.

Ethernet Powerlink protocol and double cabling can be made into unlimited tree structures. Devices using a link selector function permit data transfer via the highest quality network lines. The 62.5 mm wide Compact Link Selector module is operated as stand-alone unit, enabling as many Powerlink devices as needed on one network with cable redundancy. The link selector function is integrated in the X20 bus controller BC8884 for connecting an X20 System. Expanding the device with two active X20HB2885 hub modules eliminates the need to wire external hubs.

With two hot-swap-capable modules, inputs and outputs (I/Os) can continue operation uninterrupted—even when a hub is replaced. Similarly, two X20 supply modules can provide redundant supply voltage for the system.

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B&R Industrial Automation Corp.