Hilscher: Embedded module netRAPID 90 Nominated for Smart Production Innovation Award 2026

Hattersheim, 24 September 2026 – Hilscher’s solderable netRAPID 90 embedded communication module was nominated for the Smart Production Innovation Award (SPI Award) 2026. The award is presented by VDE VERLAG GmbH in cooperation with German Electro and Digital Industry Association (ZVEI) and the Standardization Council Industrie 4.0.

It recognizes innovative products, technologies and solutions that make an important contribution to digital and intelligent production. The winners will be honored at the Smart Production Solutions 2026 (SPS 2026) trade fair in Nuremberg.

With netRAPID 90, Hilscher addresses the requirements for flexible industrial communication in machines and devices. The compact, solderable module is based on the netX 90 communication controller and supports fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, CC-Link IE Field Basic, PROFIBUS, and DeviceNet. Device manufacturers can cover different standards for shop floor networks with a single hardware platform. Hilscher provides the respective protocol stack via software.

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For vertical communication, netRAPID 90 connects the field level to higher-level IT, edge, and cloud systems via OPC UA and MQTT. The underlying netX 90 technology makes it possible to consolidate traditional Industrial Ethernet communication and IIoT data communication onto a single platform. Process, status, and diagnostic data are thus available to higher-level applications independently of cyclic control communication. Structured device information can be provided in a standardized manner via OPC UA. MQTT supports the streamlined transmission of selected data to broker-based IIoT and cloud applications. This creates direct entry points for condition monitoring, analysis, asset management, and other digital services – without the need for additional communication hardware.

The module also integrates security functions such as Secure Boot, certificate handling, and key and user management. These functions support device manufacturers in preparing their products for requirements under the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).

The nomination for the SPI Award underlines Hilscher’s approach of providing device manufacturers with a compact and scalable communication solution for different products and markets. One hardware design supports multiple communication protocols. This reduces development effort, the number of product variants, and time to market. At the same time, the approach simplifies purchasing, inventory management, and service.

The “Smart Production Innovation Award” (known as the “Industry 4.0 Innovation Award” until 2023) will be announced and presented for the eleventh time in 2026 by VDE VERLAG GmbH in collaboration with ZVEI and the Industry 4.0 Standards Council. Vote now for your favorite solution! (only in German language available)