Industrial
  • Industrial Ethernet

    Industrial Ethernet

    Optimal efficiency in industrial production through secure, reliable, and high-speed Industrial Ethernet connectivity

What is Industrial Ethernet?

Industrial Ethernet is a specialized adaptation of Ethernet technology designed for industrial environments. It enables highspeed, reliable, and secure communication between controllers, sensors, actuators, and other devices. Industrial Ethernet is the backbone of modern industrial networks, supporting real-time control and seamless data exchange critical to Industry 4.0 and Industrial IoT (IIoT) applications.

This network structure typically employs a hierarchical topology, integrating various devices through switches and routers to facilitate seamless data exchange.

Advantages of Industrial Ethernet:

Interoperability:

Ensures seamless communication and integration across devices and systems from multiple vendors, promoting flexibility in system design.

High-speed communication:

Facilitates rapid data transfer essential for real-time process control and automation.

Scalability:

Easily adapts to expanding networks, supporting the addition of new devices and higher data volumes.

Enhanced Diagnostics:

Advanced troubleshooting and monitoring capabilities reduce downtime and maintenance costs.

Deterministic Performance:

Provides predictable and reliable communication for time-sensitive industrial applications.

Industrial Ethernet Protocols


A variety of protocols cater to specific industry needs:

PROFINET: Developed by PROFIBUS & PROFINET International, Profinet is designed for real-time data exchange in automation applications.

EtherNet/IP: Based on the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP), EtherNet/IP is a versatile industrial Ethernet protocol designed to seamlessly integrate automation systems, enabling real-time communication and interoperability between diverse devices.

EtherCAT: Short for Ethernet for Control Automation Technology, EtherCAT is known for its high-speed performance and efficiency in data processing.

Modbus TCP: The Modbus Transmission Control Protocol is widely used for connecting supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems with industrial devices.

Ethernet-APL: APL stands for Advanced Physical Layer. This protocol extends Ethernet capabilities to hazardous environments with intrinsic safety and long-distance communication.

CC-Link IE: Stands for Control & Communication Link Industrial Ethernet. It is an open industrial Ethernet network offering gigabit bandwidth, facilitating high-speed data transfer.

SERCOS III: Serial Realtime Communication System Version III is a real-time communication system for motion control applications. It integrates Ethernet standards for enhanced performance.

Future Trends in Industrial Ethernet

Innovations like Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN), which enhances deterministic communication and enables precise synchronization for complex industrial applications, are driving the future of Industrial Ethernet. Single-pair Ethernet (SPE) and Power over Ethernet (PoE) are also expanding the versatility of Ethernet networks by simplifying cabling and delivering power and data through the same connection.

In the process industry, Ethernet APL is set to play a crucial role by extending Ethernet’s capabilities into hazardous environments. It overcomes cable length limitations while providing intrinsic safety and real-time data exchange, enabling smarter, more efficient operations in sectors like oil and gas, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Supporting long-distance communication and high-speed data rates, Ethernet-APL is accelerating digital transformation and IIoT integration in process plants, reshaping the future of automation.

While new plants and greenfield projects can fully rely on Industrial Ethernet communication, modernization projects for existing plants often require migration strategies. These strategies ensure the coexistence of Fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet-based communication, enabling a seamless transition while maintaining operational continuity.

Softing’s Expertise in Industrial Ethernet

Softing is a trusted leader in Industrial Ethernet, offering a comprehensive portfolio of solutions that span the entire topology—from shop floor devices to IT applications. Our products support both greenfield projects and the modernization of legacy systems, ensuring secure, scalable, and efficient connectivity. Softing specializes in APL technology for Ex-zones, PROFIBUS PA profiles, and seamless integration of legacy systems with modern networks. By enabling interoperability across protocols like EtherNet/IP, Modbus/TCP, and PROFINET, Softing empowers industries to achieve reliable communication, digital transformation, and operational excellence.

Product Families

Ethernet aplSwitches: Seamless Ethernet connectivity down to the field devices in Ex Zones in Brownfield and Greenfield

Products: aplSwitch Field, aplSwitch Field PA
 

pnGates product family: Gateway connection to connect PROFIBUS DP/PA field devices to PROFINET control systems

Products: pnGate DP, pnGate PA, pnGate PB
 

epGates product family: Gateway connection to connect PROFIBUS DP/PA field devices to EtherNet/IP control systems

Products: epGate DP, epGate PA, epGate PB
 

mbGates product family: Gateway connection to connect PROFIBUS DP/PA field devices to Modbus/TCP control systems

Products: mbGate DP, mbGate PA, mbGate PB
 

FG200: Gateway connection to connect FOUNDATION Fieldbus field devices to Modbus/TCP control systems

Product: FG-200

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