Multiprotocol Ethernet
Multiprotocol simplifies the deployment of Industrial Ethernet through automatic protocol detection and seamless integration into existing networks
Quick read
Multiprotocol Ethernet is a technology for Industrial Ethernet that enables the automatic use of different Ethernet protocols on the same hardware and simplifies the implementation of Ethernet networks. TURCK’s multiprotocol devices automatically detect the active network protocol during startup and configure themselves without user intervention. Multiprotocol Ethernet supports the PROFINET, Modbus TCP, and EtherNet/IP protocols. TURCK provides multiprotocol technology for its entire factory automation I/O portfolio, including compact block I/O modules and modular I/O systems for control cabinet installation (IP20) as well as for field mounting (IP67). Multiprotocol Ethernet allows switching between different Ethernet protocols without having to reconnect or replace components. Integrated web servers enable the configuration and diagnostics of multiprotocol devices, as well as error analysis when necessary.
What is multiprotocol?
TURCK’s multiprotocol devices automatically configure themselves to the Ethernet protocol used on the network—without any user intervention—every time they are powered up. Multiprotocol devices support the PROFINET, Modbus TCP, and EtherNet/IP protocols. TURCK’s entire I/O product portfolio for factory automation is also available with multiprotocol technology, including compact block I/O modules and flexible modular systems—each designed for use in the control cabinet (IP20) or directly in the field (IP67).
What are the benefits of Industrial Ethernet?
Users of Ethernet technology in the industrial sector benefit from the ability to apply the technical capabilities and solutions from the office environment to industrial applications. Industrial Ethernet thus enables data exchange across the entire plant. In addition, Industrial Ethernet connects individual plants and companies across the globe via secure network connections.
With Industrial Ethernet, it's easy to set up secure remote maintenance access using proven components. This allows service calls to customers to be kept to a minimum. That's good for you and your customers.
One device – three protocols
- TURCK's multiprotocol I/O devices detect the master after startup and automatically configure themselves to the protocol
- PROFINET, Modbus TCP, or EtherNet/IP
- A sophisticated web server enables device configuration, I/O parameterization, and diagnostics via a PC or mobile end devices
- The integrated Ethernet switch also supports line and ring topologies
Benefits
PROFINET
- Fast Startup (FSU) and Ring Redundancy (MRP)
- Topology detection and automatic address assignment
- Special high-performance gateways are available for PROFINET Real Time (RT) and isochronous real time (IRT)
EtherNet/IP
- Fast Startup (QuickConnect) and Ring Redundancy (DLR)
- Various configuration options are available for different control environments
Modbus TCP
- All standard Modbus function codes are supported
- Easy integration into Schneider and Mitsubishi controllers, industrial PCs, and process automation control systems
Multiprotocol Ethernet in practice: added value for your application
Efficient and robust solutions for real-world applications—designed for demanding operating conditions and proven in everyday industrial use.
Multiprotocol Ethernet at TURCK: frequently asked questions
1. What is multiprotocol Ethernet, and what are its benefits in automation?
Multiprotocol Ethernet is a technology for Industrial Ethernet in which devices support multiple Ethernet protocols and automatically detect the active protocol. TURCK’s Multiprotocol Ethernet automatically configures itself to the protocol used on the network at every startup. This allows users to deploy the same hardware in different Ethernet environments.
2. Which Ethernet protocols does multiprotocol Ethernet support?
Multiprotocol Ethernet supports the PROFINET, Modbus TCP, and EtherNet/IP protocols. Multiprotocol devices from TURCK automatically detect which of these protocols is active on the network. According to the source, it is not necessary to manually configure the hardware for the respective Ethernet protocol.
3. Which TURCK products are available with multiprotocol Ethernet?
Multiprotocol Ethernet is available for TURCK’s entire I/O portfolio in factory automation. This includes compact block I/O modules as well as flexible modular I/O systems. The technology is available for both control cabinet applications with an IP20 rating and field applications with an IP67 rating.
4. How does automatic configuration work with multiprotocol Ethernet?
Multiprotocol Ethernet automatically detects the Ethernet protocol used on the network when the device starts up. Multiprotocol devices from TURCK automatically configure themselves to the active protocol every time they boot up. The user does not need to make any manual settings.
5. How does multiprotocol Ethernet support collaboration with different control platforms?
Multiprotocol Ethernet enables communication via PROFINET, Modbus TCP, and EtherNet/IP. This allows TURCK multiprotocol devices to be used in Ethernet networks with different control platforms. The hardware automatically adapts to the network protocol being used.
6. What tools are available for configuring and performing diagnostics on multiprotocol Ethernet?
Multiprotocol Ethernet uses integrated web servers to operate the devices. Users can configure TURCK multiprotocol devices, run diagnostics, and analyze errors via the web server. Additional hardware required for switching between protocols is not described in the source code.
7. What role does multiprotocol Ethernet play in visualization and network transparency?
Multiprotocol Ethernet is based on Industrial Ethernet and supports data exchange across the entire plant level. Industrial Ethernet also connects individual plants and companies via secure network connections. Multiprotocol Ethernet uses this infrastructure to integrate automation components into Ethernet networks.
8. What are the benefits of multiprotocol Ethernet for data communication and remote maintenance?
Multiprotocol Ethernet leverages the capabilities of Industrial Ethernet for data exchange in industrial applications. According to the source, Industrial Ethernet and proven components can be used to implement secure remote maintenance access. This helps reduce the need for on-site service calls.
9. What license or additional costs are associated with multiprotocol Ethernet?
The source code does not specify any licensing models or additional licensing costs for multiprotocol Ethernet. The source describes multiprotocol Ethernet as a feature of the corresponding TURCK I/O systems and modules. No further details regarding software licenses are provided.
10. In which applications is multiprotocol Ethernet used?
Multiprotocol Ethernet is suitable for factory automation applications that use different Ethernet standards. A machine builder can use multiprotocol Ethernet to deploy the same I/O platform in systems with PROFINET, Modbus TCP, or EtherNet/IP. A plant operator can use multiprotocol Ethernet to support existing Industrial Ethernet networks without having to replace hardware.