Speed up market launch with Hilscher’s EtherCAT pre-certification service

Faulty communication of devices within networks can create serious troubles in production processes, resulting in increased cost and lost uptime of machines – a fact that end customers will find very difficult to accept. Device manufacturers should therefore attach great importance to strictly complying with the communication protocols’ standards.

To ensure this, the overseeing body of the EtherCAT protocol, the EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG), stipulates a mandatory in-house test for EtherCAT devices or machines carried out by the manufacturer. This in-house test can be complemented by an official test at one of the four EtherCAT Test Centers around the globe:

Resources at these official test centers might be scarce and varying costs for specific tests make planning very difficult. While official testing might be optional, it is nevertheless reasonable, since the EtherCAT standard is a comprehensive and complex network technology: Understanding all its aspects, including particularities of this communication protocol, synchronization mechanisms, and diagnostic features, can be very challenging.
The current economic situation requires a mindful deployment of cost-intensive development resources. Cumbersome testing and certifying network technologies is an often overlooked part of introducing new products and machines into the market and can be a decisive impediment to the success or failure of a project.

After completing the test, customers receive a detailed test report that transparently documents all results. Additionally, a one-hour online meeting for error analysis is included with each pre-certification. The report provides suggestions for resolving other potential issues, enabling customers to identify potential weaknesses and optimize the quality of their devices.

If requested, Hilscher can oversee the official certification process at an accredited test laboratory upon request. From the shipment of the device to the registration, communication with the laboratory, and responding to any potential inquiries, Hilscher handles all the necessary steps. Extended support is also available if the pre-certification test is not passed. In this case, customers can order additional support services and a partial retest.