Hilscher - Your Partner in Industrial Communication

Hilscher is the leading technology and solution provider in industrial communication. With products and solutions from Hilscher, machines worldwide communicate with each other automatically, quickly and securely, so that production and processes run smoothly. From hardware to the cloud, Hilscher makes Industry 4.0 possible. This opens up completely new possibilities in connectivity, giving customers access to a wider market.

Hilscher was founded in 1986 in Hattersheim am Main and has since developed into an internationally active company with more than 400 employees at 12 locations worldwide.

A photo collage showcasing various Hilscher products

Overview of communication solutions from Hilscher

From turn-key products to highly integrated solutions and complementary software, Hilscher is your partner for industrial communication. Get an overview of how we can help you take the networking of your machines to a whole new level!

You have questions? We have the answers!

We have the answers to your questions – your direct contact to our experts.

netX-Kommunikations-Controller von Hilscher auf einer Leiterplatte.

Hilscher – The Company

For over 35 years the name Hilscher has stood for trendsetting automation solutions. We understand industrial communication like no other and stand behind our customers with innovative solutions and services for integrating their machines into their network.

Thanks to its multi-protocol capability, Hilscher products can be integrated into almost any industrial application—yours included!

Career – Welcome to Hilscher

Become part of the Hilscher team and help drive the network integration of machines around the globe. We're always looking for dedicated people who are interested in one of the most disruptive technologies of our time.

netX – our communication controller family

Our netX communication controllers are your gateway to industrial communication. netX technology is the foundation of our product portfolio—from PC cards and modules to industrial 4.0 applications.

The multi-protocol capability of our chips makes them unique on the market. Simply reloading the protocol stacks in the form of our firmware is all you need to cover all protocols. Hardware and software from a single source—no more worrying about development, risks, certification or reliability. Simply focus on your own core processes and applications. We ensure reliable and long-term availability of all components, even for systems with a long lifecycle.

Since the first netX generation, Hilscher has combined innovation and technology for flexible industrial networking.

netTAP 151 Wins User Trusted Product Award from the Chinese Association of Automation

Hattersheim, 22. June 2025 – The Chinese Association of Automation (CAA) has honored the Real-Time Ethernet Gateway netTAP 151-RE-RE with the User Trusted Product Award. In addition, the Hilscher team in Shanghai received the CAA’s 2025 Innovation and Growth Company of the Year award. Both honors were accepted by Managing Director Hongqing Yang in April.

netSHIELD 90-RE: New evaluation board for STM32 Nucleo 64 and Nucleo 144

Hattersheim, 16. Apr. 2025 – Hilscher introduces the new evaluation board netSHIELD 90-RE, the successor to the proven netSHIELD 52-RE. With its Arduino Uno host interface, it supports both Nucleo-64 and Nucleo-144 boards from STMicroelectronics, enabling easy integration of microcontroller-based applications into a wide range of industrial networks.

RS and Hilscher form strategic partnership to increase global availability

Hattersheim, 07. Apr. 2025 – RS and Hilscher have formed a strategic partnership for increased customer satisfaction and higher product availability. Hilscher products such as cifX PC cards, netTAP gateways or IIoT solutions like sensorEDGE are now available at the web shop of RS. Get more information here.

Hilscher and Tomorrow Things enable digital twins for industrial production

Hattersheim, 10. Mar. 2025 – Hilscher has partnered with the German digitization expert Tomorrow Things to create a test offering for digital twins in industrial production. The try & buy bundle combines hardware and software of the two companies enables cloud connection for machines and systems risk-free at the touch of a button – without large project planning or external system integrators. Learn more!

New evaluation board for 10 Mbit SPE solutions

Hattersheim, 25. Feb. 2025– Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation has added a new evaluation board to its single-pair Ethernet (SPE) technology portfolio. The NXEB-90-SPE board is based on Hilscher's multiprotocol-capable device controller netX 90 and offers users and developers numerous options for developing and evaluating industrial applications with SPE.

SPE Media Switch wins Innovative Product award in Shanghai

Hattersheim, 06. Feb. 2025 –The SPE Media Switch by Hilscher has won the Innovative Product award at the 19th MM Modern Manufacturing - New Automation Forum. The jury particularly emphasized that the new SPE device is a “fast and efficient method” for providing additional sensor data from the field, e.g. to a PLC, on the basis of SPE technology.

netFIELD App PROFINET Device – Seamless integration of edge devices into PROFINET networks

Hattersheim, 15. Jan. 2025 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH has released a new app for connecting PROFINET networks to IIoT applications, the netFIELD App PROFINET Device. The app enables users to equip almost any PROFINET network with a device (e.g. an edge gateway) that acts as a PROFINET IO device participant and can simultaneously forward data to an MQTT broker.

A PCB with a black netX chip mounted on it on colorful background. On the left side are two logos: Modbus and POWERLINK.

New Open Modbus/TCP and POWERLINK protocol stacks for netRAPID 90 released

Hattersheim, 12. Dec. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH (Hilscher) has released three new protocol stacks for the netX 90 based embedded module netRAPID 90: Open Modbus/TCP, IoT Solution Firmware for Open Modbus/TCP (with OPC UA and MQTT as well as POWERLINK Controlled Node. This extends the possible range of applications for customers when developing their own secure and flexible industrial communication solution with netX.

4 men stand between two banners of LCM. All are wearing business clothes.

Hilscher welcomes LCM as a new integration partner from Austria

Linz, 25. Nov. 2024 – LCM has become member of Hilscher's integration partner network. The Austrian company has extensive experience in utilizing the netX technology for automation projects ranging from fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet to Industrial IoT applications. Customers now benefit from tailor-made automating solutions for PROFINET, EtherCAT, Modbus/TCP and more with market-leading technology from Hilscher. Read more in our news!

Cyber security: Key topic in production over the next 5 years

Nuremberg, 21. Nov. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH expects security mechanisms in production plants and factories worldwide to become massively more important over the next five years. This was announced by the company at the press conference at this year's Smart Production Solutions (SPS) trade fair in Nuremberg. Read more about this topic in our news!

SPS 2024: Hilscher Press Information

Hattersheim, 13. Nov. 2024 – Get all the latest news from the Hilscher press conference at SPS 2024 and learn more about our new netX 900 gigabit communication controllers, the current status of cyber security in the automation industry as well as the new SPE Media Switch for Single Pair Ethernet applications and our new partnerships. A convenient press kit to download is also available for you.

A hologram of a cyber security writing in blue. Two people can be seen blurily behind the hologram.

Hilscher at SPS 2024: “Gigabit will never work without security”

Nuremberg, 13. Nov. 2024 – New and powerful gigabit technologies that enable faster data transmission than conventional 100Mbit industrial Ethernet will not come onto the market without cyber security mechanisms. This was predicted by Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH at the Smart Production Solutions (SPS) 2024 automation trade fair in Nuremberg.

A netFIELD Device IO-Link Wireless Master in an industrial environment.

Industrial IoT: Significant Disadvantages for non-digitized plants

Nuremberg, 13. Nov. 2024 – As the convergence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) continues to accelerate, non-digitalized systems are at a considerable disadvantage in terms of efficiency and competitiveness compared to digitalized systems. This was predicted by Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH at the Smart Production Solutions (SPS) 2024 automation trade fair on Wednesday.

Xentara and Hilscher combine forces: Joint automation solutions for Industry 4.0

Nuremberg, 12. Nov. 2024 – Hilscher and Xentara from embedded ocean GmbH are joining forces to offer users of industrial IoT solutions new combined products, the companies announced. The two companies made the announcement at Smart Production Solutions (SPS) 2024. The solutions resulting from the collaboration between the two companies offer machine control, real-time fieldbus integration and industrial communication - all from a single source. Read more in our news!

Two white devices on a colorful background. On the right side are the logos of the SPE Partner Network as well as the SPE System Alliance.

‌Hilscher launches new SPE Media Switch for PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus networks

Hattersheim, 04. Nov. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH has released a new SPE Media Switch for connecting Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) to industrial Ethernet networks. The SPE Media Switch is based on Hilscher's multiprotocol-capable netX-90 communication controller and can connect SPE applications to PROFINET, Open Modbus/TCP and EtherNet/IP networks without barriers.

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SEMITRON and Hilscher announce strategic partnership to strengthen market presence in the DACH region

Hattersheim, 23. Oct. 2024 – SEMITRON and Hilscher have announced a strategic partnership to strenghten support and sales for netX customers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The partnership mainly focusses on integrated solutions based on Hilscher's netX 90 communication controller and the netX 90 based netRAPID 90 emvedded module.

Several people in a production environment. All of the are wearing white gowns.

Economics Minister Mansoori visits Hilscher

Hattersheim, 22. Aug. 2024 – The Economy Minister of the German federal state of Hesse has visited Hilscher to get first-hand insights from the German automation industry. With the visit, Mansoori aims to identify the specific needs of companies in different areas that can be addressed at the state policy level. Read more in our news!

A product picture of a PC card in M.2 format on the left side. On the right side is a white angular form with numerous logos of industrial protocols. The background is a colorful gradient in red and blue.

Hilscher releases new netX-90-based PC card in M.2 format with B+M Key

Hattersheim, 21. Aug. 2024 – Hilscher has released a new cifX PC card in the very small M.2 format with B+M key. The multiprotocol capable PC card is based on netX 90 communication controller by Hilscher and is able to cover all common industrial protocols. Read more in our news!

Hilscher goes Open Source: cifX/netX-Linux-Gerätetreiber ab sofort auf Github verfügbar

Hattersheim, 31. Jul. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation has released the latest version of the cifX/netX device driver (NXDRV-LINUX) for the PC card portfolio (cifX) as open source on Github.

Three men in businesss suits are standing in front of a photo wall. All three are smiling. The man in the middle holds a TOP 100 trophy. In the background are several TOP 100 logos printed on to the wall.

TOP 100 Award: Ranga Yogeshwar honors Hilscher for innovative achievements

Hattersheim, 04. Jul. 2024 – The science journalist Ranga Yogeshwar has congratulated Hilscher CEO Sebastian Hilscher and CTO Thomas Rauch on receiving the TOP 100 award. The inudstrial communciation specialist was particularly outstanding in the category "Innovation-promoting top management". Read more!

Hilscher celebrates successful participation in the J.P. Morgan Corporate Challenge

Hattersheim, 06. Jun. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH proudly celebrates the participation in the J.P. Morgan Corporate Challenge 2024, demonstrating the company’s commitment to health, sports competition, and the empowerment of team spirit.

Four hand assembling a jigsaw puzzle, holding the pieces in the air. From the left side, a white gleam shines into the picture.

Hilscher underlines growth strategy with strengthened management team

Hattersheim, 04. Apr. 2024 – Following a successful year 2023 with a new record in the company’s global turnover, Hilscher reinforces its management team in order to continue on its growth course. The market leader for industrial communication solutions is pleased to announce Dr. Fabian Debus, Marcel Seeber and Klaus Halder as new members of the Hilscher management.

Hilscher Austria expands sales region in Central and Eastern Europe

Hattersheim, 21. Feb. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH has expanded its sales region in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Together with its subsidiary Hilscher Austria GmbH, the company is tapping into a dynamic growth market. The expansion will give device manufacturers, machine builders and plant operators better access to industrial communication solutions from the market leader.

Hilscher ranks among the TOP 100 for the second time

Hattersheim, 12. Feb. 2024 – Hilscher ranks among the 100 most innovative companies in Germany for the second time. Science journalist Ranga Yogeshwar will award the TOP 100 prize on 28. Jun. 2024. Read more in our news!

A netFIELD DEVICE IO-Link Master in an industrial environment.

Release Edge-IO-Link-Master: Computing power and centrally managed services for the field level

Hattersheim, 06. Feb. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH has released sensorEDGE FIELD and sensorEDGE, two new Edge IO-Link master devices. These IP67-rated devices combine computing power, a centralized edge management platform and standardized sensor connectivity. Read more in our news!

Hilscher releases new cifX PC card in Mini PCIe halfsize format

Hattersheim, 29. Jan. 2024 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH has released a new multiprotocol-capable cifX PC card in the extremely small format Mini PCIe halfsize. With only 26.8 mm width and 30 mm length, the cifX HPCIE90 PC card for industrial communication fits in nearly every application from IPCs and HMIs over vision systems to robotics.

In the top left corner in a white bos is written "Welche Rolle spielt Cyber Security in der industriellen Kommunikation?" Below that is written Niels Trapp, Hilscher in a violet box. The background of the left part of the picture is filled with a dark purple colour and icons of gears on the left side. On the right side you can see a portrait of a man in a business suit.

Webinar: Niels Trapp about cyber security in industrial communication

Hattersheim, 04. Dec. 2023 – Learn more about cyber security in industrial communication with Niels Trapp, Chief Marketing Officer at Hilscher, and his webinar held at INDUSTRY.forward EXPO 2023. (Subtitles automatically generated)

SYS TEC electronic AG and Hilscher form strategic partnership

Hattersheim, 30. Nov. 2023 – SYS TEC electronic AG, provider of high-quality electronics services "Made in Germany", and Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH, market leader for industrial communication solutions, have entered into a strategic partnership. This gives users of netX technology access to a competent partner for the implementation of multiprotocol-capable communication solutions.

The ceiling of Hilscher's trade fair booth at SPS in Nuremberg. In the middle hangs a panel with a man working on a machine on it. In the background there is a trade fair panel with a display and walls. The major part of the picture is in blue and white colors.

Industrial communication. Connected and protected.

Hattersheim, 09.Nov. 2023 – Industrial communication. Connected and protected. Visit Hilscher at the Smart Production Solutions 2023 in Nuremberg, Germany and find out more about data security with netX and all the other latest industrial communication trends.

News: Open Modbus/TCP protocol stack now available for netRAPID 90

Hattersheim, 10. Aug. 2023 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH now also offers a protocol stack for Open Modbus/TCP for its ultra-compact chip carrier netRAPID 90. The specialist for industrial communication technologies is thus making its already flexible multiprotocol embedded module even more versatile.

Best of Industry: We are nominees!

Hattersheim, 17. Jul. 2023 – Hilscher's netX 90 is nominated for the Best of Industry award of the Vogel Communications Group. The smallest multiprotocol-capable network controller is the communication solution for compact drives. It offers flexible industrial communication and simultaneous connection to the PROFIDrive AC1 and AC4 drive profiles as well as CiA402 - all in one SoC!

Vote now: Best of Industry Award ->

News: Sotronik is Hilscher’s official qualified embedded software integration partner

Hattersheim, 26. Jun. 2023 – Sotronik GmbH is an official qualified embedded software integration partner of Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH. Thus, users of the netX technology in Switzerland will be able to rely on an official partner to solve the automation challenges they’re facing.

News: netFIELD Compact X8M is now officially a Microsoft Azure certified device

Hattersheim, 22. Jun. 2023 – The Edge Gateway netFIELD Compact X8M of the Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH is now listed in the official Azure certified device catalog. Microsoft thus certifies the successful connectivity between the runtime Azure IoT Edge and the cloud connector Azure IoT Hub.

A white square with three smaller netFIELD icons also in white on the right side. They are connected with white lines on a dark blue background. On the left side, "Release of netFIELD OS 2.4" is written on white background.

News: Hilscher further develops its holistic netFIELD portfolio

Hattersheim, 31. May 2023 – Hilscher is constantly working on optimizing and expanding its managed industrial IoT product portfolio under the brand of netFIELD. The release of netFIELD OS 2.4, Hilscher's runtime environment for edge devices, is another building block for this.

News: netX 90 and netRAPID 90 are CC-Link IE Field Basic certified.

Hattersheim, 16. May 2023 – Hilscher's smallest network controller netX 90 and the corresponding netRAPID 90 chip carrier are CC-Link IE Field Basic certified. This supports customers especially when entering asian automation markets with Hilscher's multiprotocol technology netX.

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News: Hilscher is a member of the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance

Hattersheim, 08. May 2023 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH is a member of the Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance (SPESA). The common goal is to establish Single Pair Ethernet as an international standard for all areas where Ethernet connections are replaced or newly established.

News: STL LEBER and Hilscher take their successful cooperation to a new level

Hattersheim, 27. Apr. 2023 – STL Systemtechnik LEBER GmbH, a provider of development services in the field of embedded and mechatronics systems, and Hilscher are looking to further deepen their cooperation established in 2017. This results in a even better coordination between STL's and Hilscher's engineers as well as a faster pace of development projects for customers.

News: cifX M223090AE is CANopen certified

Hattersheim, 12. Apr. 2023 – The cifX M223090AE PC card in M.2 format offers certified CANopen communication for PC-based automation. This helps manufacturers to prove CANopen compliance of their products to the customers. Read more in the CANopen newsletter of the CiA.

News: Adding IoT value through passive PROFINET network data tapping

Hattersheim, 30. Mar. 2023 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH is expanding its IoT portfolio with the containerized application netFIELD App PROFINET Tap. The application acts as a software gateway, taps process data from a PROFINET network independently of the PLC and converts it into the MQTT protocol.

News: Adding IoT value through passive EtherCAT network data tapping

Hattersheim, 30. Mar. 2023 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH is expanding its IoT portfolio with the containerized application netFIELD App EtherCAT Tap. The application acts as a software gateway, taps process data from a EtherCAT network independently of the PLC and converts it into the MQTT protocol.

News: Embedded Office becomes a partner of Hilscher

Hattersheim, 23. Mar. 2023 – Embedded Office and Hilscher have entered into a strategic partnership. This means that companies that rely on the established netX technology have a competent integration partner with specific application expertise at their disposal.

News: Hilscher's netRAPID 90 as Companion Solution reaches series production status

Hattersheim, 15. Mar. 2023 – With the netRAPID 90, Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH expands its chip carrier portfolio for industrial communication of highly integrated field devices. The netX-90-based module acts as a device interface and supports all common fieldbus, Industrial Ethernet and IIoT protocols in one design.

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News: Promwad and Hilscher form a joint partnership

Hattersheim, 07. Feb. 2023 – Promwad, an expert in hardware design and embedded software development, and Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH are entering into a joint partnership. Promwad's increased focus on industrial automation with its Industrial Automation & Robotics engineering unit is a perfect fit for Hilscher as the netX multiprotocol SoC from the Hattersheim-based company can be used in numerous projects

A man and a woman standing at a table at SPS 2022, signing a contract.

News: infoteam Software Group and Hilscher form integration partnership

Hattersheim, 31. Jan. 2023 – The infoteam Software Group, headquartered in Bubenreuth, Germany, is the new integration partner of Hilscher. Both companies had already announced the cooperation at the Smart Production Solutions trade fair in Nuremberg at the end of 2022.

News: Oliver Paffenholz becomes Hilscher’s new CFO

Hattersheim, 14. Nov. 2022 – The management team at Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH has been reinforced with the addition of Oliver Paffenholz as Hilscher’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

News: The new Hilscher at SPS 2022: New brand unveiled

News

Hattersheim, 08. Nov. 2022 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH, specialist for industrial communication solutions, launches its new brand strategy at SPS 2022 in Nuremberg and presents itself in a completely new corporate design.

News: Siemens SIMATIC IPCs are now multiprotocol capable thanks to cifX PC cards from Hilscher

Hattersheim, 04. Nov. 2022 – Siemens, one of the world's leading technology groups, and Hilscher, a specialist in industrial communication solutions, have joined forces. Equipped with Hilscher's cifX PC cards, the German technology group now offers its customers the ability to connect their SIMATIC IPCs to all industrial communication networks.

Hilscher production manager standing next to a pick-and-place robot.

News: dieEntwickler Elektronik GmbH now embedded integration partner of Hilscher

Hattersheim, 13. Oct. 2022 – dieEntwickler Elektronik GmbH (dEE), an industrial hardware and software development service provider from Bad Zell in Austria with expertise in industrial communication and programming of microcontrollers, is now Hilscher's official embedded integration partner. The two companies already have a history of cooperation on numerous development projects based on Hilscher's netX chip technology.

Two employees talking in front of the main entrance of the Hilscher company building.

News: Helmholz Benelux and Hilscher form strategic partnership for Benelux region

Hattersheim, 14. Sept. 2022 – Helmholz Benelux, one of the leading Dutch experts in PROFIBUS and PROFINET networks, and Hilscher, a specialist in industrial communication solutions, have joined forces in a strategic partnership. The new strategic partnership will benefit customers in the automation segment in the Benelux countries (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg) by streamlining their automation projects.

News: Hilscher underlines IIoT strategy – Thomas Rauch becomes new CTO

Hattersheim, 17. Aug. 2022 – Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH is strengthening its technical expertise on the management team by welcoming Thomas Rauch as the new Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

CANopen Controller Gateway for drive control of AGVs in semiconductor manufacturing

The Korean robot and AGV specialist Hanwha Robotics controls AGV drives in CANopen networks for semiconductor production with Hilscher's netHOST controller gateway. Read more in our Success Story!

Protocol logos and gateway devices on a colorful background.

Individual consultations on protocol conversion with the help of gateways

Converting network technologies with gateways brings numerous benefits for industrial users. Hilscher is now offering individual consultations on how to solve protocol translation challenges with minimum effort. Book your appointment now and learn more about device network integration, segment coupling and how to connect multiple field devices with Ethernet-based control systems.

Enabling PROFINET S2 redundancy for Yokogawa's CENTUM VP

Yokogawa Electric, a leading company in integrated plant production control systems, has implemented S2 redundancy for their PROFINET IO controller by adopting Hilscher's comX embedded module, thereby improving the operation rate of the plant.

Translating from POWERLINK to EtherNet/IP in robotics

What needs to be done if a robot is to be integrated into an existing automation environment, but they speak different languages? Then a gateway is used to ensure secure data transmission - in this application implemented by robotics specialist More Robots from Austria from POWERLINK to Ethernet/IP with Hilscher's netTAP gateway.

Several robots in an automotive production facility with many sparks flying around.

Connection and disconnection of slaves during operation with EtherCAT Hot Connect

The efficiency of industrial automation systems stands and falls with their uninterrupted operation. If devices are switched on or off in the network during operation, this can lead to considerable problems. EtherCAT Hot Connect and Hilscher's netX technology solve this challenge. Learn more in our blog!

Reliable and highly available automation systems: PROFINET S2 system redundancy with Hilscher

Communication via industrial networks needs to be reliable and always available. netX and Hilscher therefore enbale PROFINET S2 System Redundancy for a variety of applications to make that possible. Learn more in our blog!

Shorter time to market for semiconductor device manufacturers with comX communication module

Hilscher offers compliance, compatibility and reliability for EtherCAT-based automation devices used in semiconductor manufacturing equipment with its new highly capable communications module comX 51 CA-RE\R. Read more in our blog!

PROFINET IRT: When Real-Time is not enough

PROFINET IRT not only requires short cycle times, but also deterministic behavior. Industrial networks must therefore meet certain requirements. Find out more about PROFINET IRT with netX from Hilscher here!

Numerous empy vials lined up in a production machine. The first vial is illuminated by a small glimmer of light.

Seamless connectivity for optical inspection systems in the pharmaceutical industry

An Indian technology company, specializing in the design, development and manufacture of tailor-made automation solutions for the pharmaceutical industry, connects optical inspections systems for medicinal vials using Hilscher's cifX 50E-RE PC card for PROFINET. Read more!

A lock in a dark environment. The lock is surrounded by blue PCB-like lines.

The Cyber Resilience Act is coming: Get your necessary certifications!

The networking of IT and OT - from field level to the cloud - offers both major advantages and risks for the security of automated production systems. But what about national and international legislation and standards that are intended to structurally increase security in the future? In this article, you can find out what companies need to look out for and where they can get additional input from experts such as the industrial communication specialist Hilscher.

Industrial Communciation with security

The increasing convergence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) is imposing growing demands on IT security in the manufacturing landscape. Ronald Heinze, Editor-in-Chief of VDE Verlag, interviewed Thomas Rauch, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Hilscher, to discuss the challenges and solutions for a secure industrial communication infrastructure in the digital age.

Three black and silver devices on a white background. CODA is written on the devices in large red letters.

Orange Precision Measurement with multiple protocols on netX 90

Orange Precision Measurement implements PROFINET, EtherCAT, and EtherNet/IP as well as DeviceNet using Hilscher's netX 90 multiprotocol communication controller, enabling the American manufacturer of precision measurement tools to supply its products to various customers.

A man and a woman in high visibility vest are looking at a notebook, Both are wearing white helmets. In the background are machines.

Making access to industrial apps more democratic with smart licensing

Hilscher’s Flagship Store for the Open Industry 4.0 Alliance (OI4) Community brings the ease of app stores to the industrial world. Powered by Wibu-Systems' CodeMeter licensing, the store gives users access to a library of apps and solutions for their shop floor automation needs.

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Blog: Making machine and plant data accessible

Editor-in-Chief Ronald Heinze (Digital Factory Journal) and our Head of Product Management Indistrial IoT Uwe Schnepf (Hilscher) discuss, how machine and plant data can be made accessible in industrial applications. Read more in our blog!

netX 90 communication controller mounted on a circuit board.

Quickly creating versatile automation solutions

From motor controllers to the consolidation of entire control cabinet contents, dieEntwickler Elektronik (dEE) implements innovative netX 90 projects and opens up the entire internal periphery of the small multiprotocol controller. Read more about our integration partner here!

A netFIELD Compact being mounted to a DIN rail and connected to an Ethernet network.

Blog: Automating the IoT infrastructure

“We make machine data accessible. The user provides the process knowledge.” This is how Dr. Marek Meyer, Product Manager of Industrial IoT at Hilscher, envisions the ideal assignment of roles for a successful IoT infrastructure that delivers immediate tangible results. Read more in our blog article.

A clean and bright inside of a factory with several machines lined up left and right. On two white rails at the upper half of the picture Güdel is written in red large letters. In the foreground, a sheet of metal lays on a conveyor belt.

From Condition Monitoring to Unified Namespace with netFIELD

Industrial systems specialist Güdel uses netFIELD to implement advanced IIoT solutions, ranging from monitoring specific wear points to a more holistic Industry 4.0 approach.

An actuator by SCHIEBEL painted in black on white background with a red spring incorporated on the left side.

Connected drive technology for critical applications

With the embedded modules netIC52 and netRAPID 90 from Hilscher, SCHIEBEL connects its actuators to industrial communication networks and sets standards with a new control board.

Thermal spray coating machine by Oerlikon.

Plug and play device management for thermal spray systems

Surface solution specialist Oerlikon Metco AG uses netFIELD to enable real-time data collection from industrial applications, such as thermal spray painting machines, from around the world.

A pneumatic valve application with many cables and lines going about, disappearing into a cabinet on the bottom. On the far right side, AVENTICS is written on the device. In the background, you can see some green and blue boxes. The valve application is mounted on a sheet of metal.

IIoT communication for pneumatic components

Emerson, a world leading provider of automation technology and software, has enabled integrated OPC UA in their AVENTICS™ valve systems, simplifying IIoT integration and analysis capabilities with netX 90.

Blog: Challenges of operational scaling of IIoT projects

Many IIoT prototypes fail when it comes to operational implementation. A review by Hilscher and our expert Dr. Andreas Graf Gatterburg on the challenges of operational scaling of IIoT projects. Read more in our blog!

Blog: Accelerate your digitization projects with netFIELD

How are digitization projects in the field of Industrial IoT successfully implemented? With the netFIELD operating system and the netFIELD.io cloud platform, individual sensor-to-cloud solutions can be developed. Learn more in our blog!

Accelerated development through maximum proficiency

Based on Hilscher’s netX 90 multiprotocol processor, Systemtechnik LEBER and E-T-A developed an ultra-compact and price-sensitive bus controller for monitoring electronic circuit breakers.

A man with a blue hard hat and safety glasses is working on a orange robot arm.

Detecting complex anomalies in industrial networks

netANALYZER delivers reliable support for the service specialist Leadec in troubleshooting industrial Ethernet networks.

IIoT networking: simple and flexible

MULTIVAC, the leading manufacturer of integrated packaging solutions, develops customer-oriented services with netFIELD, enabling higher machine availability

A female factory worker in pharmaceutical clothing standing beside a large fluid machinery.

Integration of pharmaceutical Process Skids into a Distributed Control System

netTAP 151 provides a flexible and scalable solution for an easy integration of independent processing systems into one industrial communication network.

A pneumatic test bench with several cables going in and out, placed in a production environment.

PC-based Automation with unified Interfaces for all Formats and Protocols

müller+krahmer GmbH realizes pneumatic test benches with the capability to change protocols on the fly with the help of Hilscher cifX PC cards.

A grey box with several connectors up front.

Product Development based on the netX 90

The engineering firm kumkeo GmbH is one of the first companies to rely on the netX 90, the world‘s smallest multi-protocol chip from Hilscher, for the development of innovative products.

2 panel PCs facing each other, another IPC with netJACK highlighted blue in the foreground.

Flexible integration of industrial protocols in IPCs

IPC specialist ADS-TEC Industrial IT uses the netJACK option module as a universal solution to equip its Industrial Box PCs and HMIs with master and slave functionalities on demand, flexibly and without tools.

Worker inspecting an electrical Installation at a Leadec plant.

On the Hunt for Errors in Real-Time Ethernet Networks

netMIRROR facilitates quick and reliable troubleshooting in RealTime Ethernet networks at factory service specialist Leadec.

Front view of a NORD inverter standing upright with connectors on bottom.

Multiprotocol Stack Secures Competitive Advantage

Drive manufacturer NORD DRIVESYSTEMS realizes more compact frame sizes and facilitates servicing with netX.

Close-up view of a VITRONIC machine vision component attached to a robotic arm in an industrial setting.

Multiprotocol connectivity for Optical Inspection Systems

cifX PC-Cards integrate Automated Weld Seam Inspection Systems to numerous Real-Time Ethernet and Fieldbus networks at German machine vision specialist VITRONIC.

Employee checking a cifX PC card from Hilscher.

Blog: Single-pair Ethernet – System adoptions in different scenarios

Part 3 of our blog series about SPE: Factory automation networks are already largely based on Ethernet standards today. However, the adoption of Ethernet in the process automation field is still in progress. How does SPE affect these two industrial areas?

Read the article!

Blog: Single-pair Ethernet – Deployment and characteristics

Part 2 of our blog series about SPE: While the idea to enable IP based networks down to the sensor level is obviously beneficial, the question is, how SPE is able to deploy in the focused devices and installations.

Read the article!

Blog: Single-pair Ethernet – Enhanced cloud access to sensors and peripherals

Part 1 of our blog series about SPE: Single-pair Ethernet, as a new initiative to enable IP based networks to each sensor, adds value through thinner cabling, small footprint plugs and connectors and less space requirements. For that reason, it is suitable to replace numerous existing fieldbuses in the sensor and peripheral area by integrating sensors directly to IT- and Cloudsystems.

Read the article!

Blog: Single-pair Ethernet – Market Potential and Hilscher’s approach

Part 4 of our blog series about Single-Pair-Ethernet: A lot of work is still ahead of the industry to get open questions resolved in terms of system adoptions, standard integration and leveraging benefits in relevant use cases. How do the future prospects of SPE look like?

Read the article!

Blog: Semiconductor Manufacturing and its Machines

Blog

The current chip crisis presents the semiconductor industry with one of its biggest challenges of recent decades.

Blog: comX 51CA-RE\R – It’s now the turn of the Semiconductor Industry

The semiconductor industry relies on state-of-the-art technology when planning new production facilities. Thanks to the comX 51CA-RE\R machine builders are now finally able to fully concentrate on the development of their applications when designing their tools for the semiconductor industry.

Hand holding a pair of tweezers over a Hilscher printed circuit board

Blog: comX – Flexible Communication Module for Automation

The comX communication module was developed to equip automation devices with a network interface. Here, all communication tasks are executed autarchically on the module - independent of the target platform processor.

Blog: Hilscher Embedded Modules: Market Leader for more than a Quarter of a Century

The use of an embedded module has always been a sensible alternative to the traditional and complex Design-In process of a chip. For more than 25 years, Hilscher has been a leader in factory automation with embedded modules for industrial communication and that with a consistent concept.

Blog: Global chip crisis – Hilscher supports the setup of new semiconductor factories

The future prospects for the semiconductor industry are quite positive, with a projected growth of around 9% in 2022. However, the industry is repeatedly faced with supply bottlenecks due to the effects of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, amongst other factors. By developing a new comX communication module, especially suited for the semiconductor industry, Hilscher is supporting to cope with the current situation.

Embedded Computing Conference 2025

Discover the latest trends and innovations in the world of Embedded Computing – from industrial operating systems to smart hardware platforms. A key event for anyone shaping the future of technology.

When:
27. May 2025

Where:
Campus der ZHAW School of Engineering / Eulachpassage, Technikumstrasse 71, 8401 Winterthur

Hilscher at Pharmintech in Milan

Pharmintech in Milan is an international trade fair specializing in technologies and solutions for the chemical-pharmaceutical industry.

When:
27. - 30. May 2025

Where:
FIERA MILANO
Piazzale Carlo Magno 1 - 20149 Milan - Italy

Hall 2 Booth C143

SCIIF Shenzhen 2025

Visit us at the South China International Industry Fair (SCIIF) and learn everything there is to know about industrial communication from the market leader!

When
04.-06. Jun. 2025

Where
Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center
G3J5+7XW, Fuhua Rd 3
中心城 Futian District
Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
518017

Hilscher at IAS Shanghai 2025

Hilscher at the Industrial Automation Show (IAS) 2025. Explore the latest market trends and take a look at all kinds of innovative products, technologies and solutions for industrial development.

When
23-27. Sept. 2025

Where
National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC)
58R4+7CQ, Laigang Rd
Qingpu District
Shanghai, China
201106

Innovative Industry Fair for E x E Solutions

Join Hilscher at IIFES, the premier platform driving co-creation across industry, academia, and government. Together with visionary partners, we’re helping lead Japan’s manufacturing into the future.

When:
19.-21. Nov 2025

Where:
TOKYO BIG SIGHT
East Exhibition Halls 4-6

netX90 Fundamentals - One-Day Workshop

One-day, hands-on workshop covering everything you need to confidently design in the netX90 Industrial Ethernet controller - hardware, software, tools, and cost estimation included.

When:
Tuesday 24 June 2025
Tuesday 16 September 2025
Thursday 11 December 2025

from 09:00 to 17:00

Where:
Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH, Rheinstrasse 15, 65795 Hattersheim, Germany

Hilscher student leaning against a wall and looking at a cell phone.

Industrial clerk (Apprenticeship)

Lay the foundation for a future successful career for yourself with an apprenticeship at our company. The apprenticeship as an industrial clerk will provide you with a comprehensive insight into the various commercial and technical production departments within an industrial company.

Employee entering Hilscher's company building through the main entrance.

IT specialist for systems integration (Apprenticeship)

Lay the foundation for a future successful career for yourself with an apprenticeship at our company. During your apprenticeship as an IT specialist for applications development, you will receive a comprehensive insight into the IT department of an industrial company and you will learn how to implement customer-specific information and communications solutions.

Portrait of Successful Female Chief Engineer or CEO Using Laptop Computer to Optimise Server Farm Cloud Computing Facility at the Evening Office. Cyber Security, Network Protection Concept

Head of Human Resources (m/f/d)

As part of the human resources team, it’s our job to make sure that our colleagues are able to concentrate on solidifying and expanding our position in the market, while also providing a pleasant working environment. Apply now!

Two Hilscher employees discussing a contract.

Accounting professional (m/f/d)

Do you have a talent for numbers and organisation and want to work in an innovative company with a family atmosphere? Then you've come to the right place! Then apply now!

Two young men are sitting at a table facing the camera across the table. The left man smiles at the man on the right while holding a screwdriver placed on a PCB. The table is loaded with electrical equipment. In the background there is a large monitor, which is switched off.

Field Application Engineer (m/f/d)

Support our customers in designing the best possible communication solution with our netX technologyand apply now as Field Application Engineer at Hilscher!

Two young men look at a display of a machine. One of them points at something on the display, he is wearing gloves. In the background you can see a woman working on another machine. The picture is crowded with semiconductor production machines.

Electronics technicians for devices and systems (Apprenticeship)

Lay the foundation for a future successful career for yourself with an apprenticeship at Hilscher.

The technical apprenticeship as an electronics technician for devices and systems will provide you with a comprehensive insight into the production area of an industrial company.