Building on proven Anybus and IXXAT technologies, HMS offers a PCIe card in standard and low-profile form factors that supports major industrial Ethernet standards. Users can easily connect their PC-based slave application to EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, PROFINET IRT/RT, Powerlink, and standard TCP/IP using the IXXAT INpact. Thanks to the unified driver concept, customers can quickly switch protocols without extensive programming and take advantage of future protocol extensions and developments.
The IXXAT INpact integrated network solution is based on Anybus CompactCom technology, currently used in millions of automation devices worldwide. When used in conjunction with a flexible FPGA-based PCIe bus connection, the Anybus NP40 network processor has all the necessary functions to manage communication between the industrial Ethernet network and PC-based client applications. With its low latency and deterministic, real-time behavior, it is ideal for demanding industrial applications. Furthermore, the 2-port Ethernet interface (10/100 Mbit, RJ45) supports protocol-specific switching functions, such as IRT for PROFINET, DLR for EtherNet/IP, and Hub for Powerlink.
The Ethernet flash upgrade function allows the user to download any industrial Ethernet protocol without switching cards quickly and cost-effectively, making IXXAT INpact an adaptable and future-proof interface for all types of applications.
Thanks to the NP40 multiprotocol processor, the FPGA-based concept and the uniform driver interface, the IXXAT INpact is the solution for numerous applications, from HMI systems to process visualization and service tools to measurement, analysis and test systems.
The IXXAT INpact comes with a comprehensive Windows driver package that enables quick and easy application development for each customer. Thanks to the uniform application programming interface, switching between different Industrial Ethernet protocols is possible without changing the customer's software, resulting in greater flexibility and reduced development costs. A Linux driver and support for real-time operating systems such as RTX, Intime, VxWorks, and QNX are also planned upon request. Furthermore, the IXXAT INpact will soon be available for both PCI and mini PCIe buses.
