As manufacturers seek to increase productivity and reduce downtime, they often face challenges related to limited data access and the complexity of installations within electrical panels. The EtherNet/IP In-cabinet solution addresses these challenges by optimizing communication between devices within the panel, improving real-time data availability, and facilitating the installation, scalability, and maintenance of motor control systems over time.
The new version incorporates an additional power socket and extends EtherNet/IP connectivity to additional motor control components, including 140ME motor protection devices and E100 electronic overload relays, via a 100-E contactor communication module. These enhancements help manufacturers design smarter, more connected electrical panels, while also improving diagnostic capabilities and overall system visibility.
“The EtherNet/IP In-cabinet solution continues to transform how customers design and implement electrical panels,” said Kelly Passineau, product manager at Rockwell Automation. “With the addition of a supplemental power outlet and connections for additional components within the panel, we offer even more possibilities to reduce installation time, improve diagnostics, and develop intelligent, data-driven systems with less complexity . ”
The key benefits of this new version include:
• Supplementary power outlet: Helps maintain stable performance as the number of devices increases, reducing the need for oversized power supplies or additional interposing relays and enabling scalable motor control architectures.
• Extended intelligent motor control capabilities: Extends EtherNet/IP communication to 140ME motor protection switching devices and E100 electronic overload protection relays via a 100-E contactor communication module.
• Faster installation: In some practical cases, the EtherNet/IP In-cabinet solution has been shown to reduce cabling time by up to 80% compared to traditional wired installations when implemented according to recommended standards.
• Optimized space: Compact components allow more devices to fit in the same dimensions, helping to reduce the overall size of the panel.
• Improved data access: Real-time communication between devices increases productivity and enables smarter decision-making. With expanded connectivity between more components, users gain access to more data and meaningful insights.
• Scalability: Easily adapts to future network needs without requiring major redesigns or infrastructure changes.
“The EtherNet/IP In-cabinet solution is not just a product, but a constantly evolving portfolio designed to grow with the system,” said Jimmy Alvarez, director of Portfolio and Business Management at Rockwell Automation. “This release represents the next step in our roadmap, which includes expanding compatibility with more panel components, providing deeper data access, and offering more advanced diagnostic capabilities that will improve visibility and performance over time. As operational needs evolve, the solution is ready to scale with them, offering a flexible, long-term path to smart, connected architectures within the electrical panel.
