Connection and disconnection of slaves during operation with EtherCAT Hot Connect
What do I need EtherCAT Hot Connect for?
The efficiency of industrial automation systems stands and falls with their uninterrupted operation and high flexibility with regard to dynamic configuration changes. The following example illustrates what this means in practice:
Let's imagine a production plant whose assembly robots have tool changers in order to realize several production processes with one hardware. In terms of industrial communication, a tool change means that slave devices have to be switched on or off during operation. While the network configuration is dynamically adapted, the assembly robot must continue to function without interruption. The master must therefore not cause a system failure due to configuration errors.
To ensure this, the EtherCAT protocol for masters offers the “Hot Connect” functionality, which is explained in more detail below.
Advantages of Hot Connect
Dynamic configuration:
Hot Connect enables the system to adapt to changes without interrupting operation. For example, this could be machines in a production line that need to use different tools with embedded EtherCAT devices. With EtherCAT Hot Connect, these devices can be switched on and off during operation.
Seamless integration:
The EtherCAT network reconfigures itself automatically. When a new device is connected or removed, the master node reads the updated network configuration and adjusts the communication times and data exchange routines accordingly.
High availability:
Hot Connect increases the robustness and availability of the system. In an industrial facility, minimizing downtime is critical. Hot Connect supports maintenance processes and upgrades without interruption, resulting in higher operational efficiency.
Hot Connect with Hilscher
These Hilscher products support EtherCAT Hot Connect:
Related links
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!
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