Modbus-TCP to EtherNet/IP Link Device
Serial to EtherNet/IP Link Device
PROFIBUS DP to EtherNet/IP Link Device
Advantages of these Linking Devices compared to chassis-integrated solutions or PLC communication modules:
• Improved system architecture. Unlike chassis-integrated solutions, which are physically connected to the PLC, Linking Devices can be mounted near the machines to be connected. This means that a connection can be established via a single Ethernet cable instead of installing multiple networks with dedicated cabling. Linking Devices support ODVA's Device Level Ring (DLR) for ring topologies.
• Easier configuration. PLC chassis-integrated solutions typically require several function blocks or contact logic to be used. Integrating these into existing coded systems significantly increases project completion time. With an HMS Linking Device, we can quickly and easily access the configuration of Profibus, Modbus-TCP, and serial protocols through Rockwell's own Studio 5000 software.
• Maximizes functionality. Since Linking Devices are stand-alone devices, they are not affected by the backplane functionality (PLC execution time), even when large amounts of data are transferred. The PLC simply scans the Linking Device as it would any other I/O device on the network. This is especially relevant for Profibus and Modbus-TCP versions that allow the transmission of large amounts of data.
