Hilscher: netRAPID 90 IC: New Plug-In Embedded Module for Secure Industrial Communication

Hattersheim, 18 May 2026 – Hilscher has released the new netRAPID 90IC embedded module for secure industrial communication. The plug-in module is based on the proven netX 90 communication controller and enables device manufacturers to integrate industrial communication into compact field devices without soldering.

By using a standard socket instead of a fixed soldered design, manufacturers reduce integration effort, lower production risks, and avoid costly rework in case of defects. The module supports all major Industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, and CC-Link IE Field Basic on a single hardware platform.

netRAPID 90IC at a glance

Based on netX 90 technology
- netX 90 supports all major Industrial Ethernet, Fieldbus and IIoT technologies
Plug-in communication module with modern SMT connector
Built-in security:
- CryptoCore hardware accelerator
- Secure Boot
- Security configuration with key generation and software signing
- Certificate, key and user management
- Signable firmware with security functionalities such as PROFINET Security Class 1 or CIP Security for EtherNet/IP
IIoT-ready with integrated firmware for OPC UA and MQTT
Small size (18mm*45mm) fits into many applications
Hilscher platform promise: Hardware, software, tools, support and service from a single source

A man in a dark suit and white shirt looks into the camera. A reflection of him is mirrored on the left side.

Device manufacturers are under increasing pressure to combine fast development cycles with rising requirements for security and flexibility. With the netRAPID 90IC, we provide a communication module that integrates easily, reduces risk in production, and prepares devices for future requirements such as the Cyber Resilience Act from the very beginning.

Simon Fischer

Product Manager
Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH

The netRAPID 90IC addresses applications where space, flexibility, and reliability define the field device design. Its compact form factor with dimensions of only 18mm*45mm and its plug-in concept make it well suited for field devices with limited installation space in industries such as:

Welding
Drives
Measurement and control technology
Weighing
Laser technology

Compared to soldered communication modules, the plug-in design simplifies both development and servicing. Manufacturers integrate communication interfaces without redesigning the baseboard. In case of defects or production errors, the module can be replaced independently of the device hardware. This reduces downtime, lowers lifecycle costs, and improves overall production efficiency.
Based on Hilscher’s netX 90 network controller, netRAPID 90IC is able to process the following protocol technologies as a device (formerly slave):

PROFINET	EtherCAT	EtherNet/IP	CC-Link IE Field Basic
MQTT	OPC UA	PROFIBUS	DeviceNet
POWERLINK	Modbus	Sercos	CANopen
CC-Link

In addition, the new netRAPID 90IC module integrates Industrial IoT functionality out of the box. Integrated firmware stacks enable OPC UA and MQTT communication alongside established Industrial Ethernet protocols. Device data is transferred from the field level to IT and cloud systems without additional hardware or gateways. This creates a consistent communication path from sensor to cloud and enables use cases such as condition monitoring and asset management.

Security functions are integrated directly into the module architecture. Based on the netX 90, the netRAPID 90IC includes hardware-supported encryption via CryptoCore, Secure Boot, and comprehensive key and certificate management. This establishes a reliable foundation for protected device communication and supports the implementation of current and upcoming security requirements.

With the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), cybersecurity becomes a mandatory requirement for connected products. Manufacturers must ensure secure configurations, provide updates over the product lifecycle, and protect devices against known vulnerabilities. By integrating security mechanisms at hardware level, the netRAPID 90IC helps device manufacturers address these requirements early in the design phase and reduces the effort required for compliance.

Manufacturers who consider CRA requirements in time gain a clear competitive advantage. They shorten development cycles, avoid costly redesigns, and reduce certification risks late in the project. At the same time, they strengthen trust with their customers by delivering secure and maintainable products from the outset. This shifts cybersecurity from a regulatory obligation to a differentiating feature in the market.

Hilscher platform promise: All communications from a single source

As part of the Hilscher platform strategy, the module integrates seamlessly into Hilscher’s consistent ecosystem of hardware, software, configuration tools, and support services. Developers benefit from standardized interfaces, proven protocol stacks, and a coordinated toolchain. This reduces development effort, accelerates time to market, and ensures long-term availability for industrial applications.

With the netRAPID 90IC, Hilscher expands its portfolio of embedded communication solutions with a flexible and secure module for modern device designs. The plug-in concept, combined with multiprotocol capability, integrated security, and IIoT connectivity, gives device manufacturers a practical way to implement industrial communication efficiently and with long-term reliability.