Embedded Module

An embedded module is a specialized electronic component designed to perform specific functions within a larger system. Unlike general-purpose computers or devices, which are built to handle a wide range of tasks, embedded modules are focused on executing operations efficiently and reliably. These modules are commonly utilized in various industries and applications, including consumer electronics, industrial automation, automotive systems, medical devices, and more.

At the heart of an embedded module lies a microcontroller or microprocessor, which serves as the computational engine responsible for executing instructions and processing data. The choice of microcontroller or microprocessor depends on the specific requirements of the application, including factors such as processing power, energy efficiency, and cost.

Embedded modules for automation are integrated into larger systems to perform specific functions related to control, monitoring and communication tasks in an industrial environment. These modules are usually equipped with robust hardware that can withstand harsh industrial conditions such as extreme temperatures, vibrations and electromagnetic interference.

Embedded modules can also be tailored to ensure compatibility with widely used fieldbus systems and Real-Time Ethernet standards, ensuring seamless integration and communication within complex industrial networks. The use of embedded modules helps in creating flexible, scalable, and efficient automation systems that can be easily upgraded or modified as technology evolves, and industrial requirements change.

They also contribute significantly to the advancement and reliability of industrial communication and automation, offering specialized solutions that facilitate interoperability, programmability, and a higher degree of automation within industries. They enable the sophisticated machine-to-machine (M2M) communication required for automated systems to operate with minimal human intervention. Data acquisition, process control, device monitoring, and network communication are some of the tasks handled by embedded modules in the industrial sector.

Embedded modules used in industrial automation and communication applications incorporate specific hardware components:

Industrial-Grade Microcontrollers or Processors
Embedded modules in industrial settings often utilize industrial-grade microcontrollers or processors capable of withstanding harsh environmental conditions and operating reliably in industrial environments. These processors may have extended temperature ranges, enhanced reliability features, and built-in hardware encryption for secure communication.

Memory
Industrial embedded modules require ample memory to store firmware, program code, configuration data, and temporary variables. These modules typically feature flash memory for storing firmware and program code, as well as static random-access memory (SRAM) or non-volatile memory (NVRAM) for data storage and retention during power cycles.

Industrial I/O Interfaces
Embedded modules used in industrial automation and communication applications are equipped with specialized industrial I/O interfaces to interface with sensors, actuators, and other industrial equipment. These interfaces may include digital inputs/outputs (DI/DO), analog inputs/outputs (AI/AO), high-speed counters, pulse-width modulation (PWM) outputs, and communication interfaces such as RS-232, RS-485, CAN (Controller Area Network), and Ethernet.

Real-time Communication Interfaces
Industrial embedded modules require real-time communication capabilities to exchange data with other industrial devices, controllers, and systems. These modules often support deterministic communication protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP/IP, and DeviceNet, ensuring timely and reliable data exchange in industrial automation networks.

Software components for embedded modules in industrial automation and communication applications involves several key considerations:

Real-time Operating Systems (RTOS)
Many industrial embedded modules utilize real-time operating systems (RTOS) to manage tasks, scheduling, and communication in real-time. The RTOS provides deterministic behavior and prioritization of tasks critical for industrial automation applications.

Industrial Protocol Stacks
Embedded modules often incorporate industrial protocol stacks to support communication standards commonly used in industrial automation, such as Modbus, PROFIBUS, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, and CANopen. These protocol stacks enable seamless integration with industrial networks and systems.

Safety and Security Considerations
Embedded modules in industrial automation must adhere to strict safety and security standards to ensure reliable operation and protect against cyber threats. Software development includes implementing safety-critical features, encryption algorithms, access control mechanisms, and secure communication protocols to mitigate risks.

Edge Computing
Edge computing involves processing data closer to its source rather than relying solely on centralized data centers or cloud services. Embedded modules enable processing data at the edge of networks, reducing latency and enhancing reliability of industrial IoT applications and industry 4.0.

Connectivity Advancements
As industrial communication technologies continue to evolve, embedded modules will also need to adapt to these developments to enable future connectivity technologies. This includes Single-Pair-Ethernet for example.

Embedded Security
As embedded modules become more interconnected and pervasive in critical infrastructure and IoT deployments, there will be a greater emphasis on embedded security. Future embedded modules will incorporate advanced security features, including hardware-based encryption, secure boot mechanisms, and intrusion detection/prevention systems, to protect against cyber threats and safeguard sensitive data and operations. Secure-by-design principles will be increasingly adopted to mitigate security risks from the outset of embedded module development.

Embedded modules from Hilscher are the ideal solution for integrating a fieldbus or industrial Ethernet interface into a compact automation device. For example, field devices such as drives or controllers can be integrated into automated systems. The hardware is integrated and connected to the application by the device manufacturer. The focus is on maximum performance in a compact format.

Hilscher's embedded portfolio, consisting of the products netJACK, comX, netIC and netRAPID, contains versions for a wide range of requirements - e.g. for different data rates or with an extended range of functions. By using the embedded modules, device manufacturers no longer need to develop their own communication hardware. Embedded modules from Hilscher are a simple and efficient option for making field devices capable of communication. They minimize the time-to-market of your products. And thanks to Hilscher’s netX technology, you have access to all common industrial protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT and Ethernet/IP with one platform, which reduces your development costs.

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Are you looking for an integration partner for your industrial communication project? From multi-protocol capable netX chips to IIoT applications - our network of partner companies offers you the support you need!

Embedded modules from Hilscher are the ideal solution for integrating a fieldbus or Real-Time Ethernet interface into a compact automation device. They allow field devices such as drives or controllers to be quickly and easily integrated into automated systems.

Implement the entire range of industrial communication protocols with just one module. netJACK is the universal solution for all applications that require master or slave functionalities.

Equip your robots, PLCs or drives with a network interface. comX is the universal solution for all applications that require master or slave functionalities.

netIC is your ideal slave solution for simple field devices with a low data throughput, such as barcode scanners, identification systems, valve manifolds and input/output modules.

Use netRAPID to implement your slave interface quickly and securely. The netX chip carrier is the alternative to cost-intensive in-house developments.

NRPLFW-CCIBS

Full version for NRP 52-RE & NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

COMX 52CA-CCS

The module for all communication tasks

NRPLFW-S3S

Full version for NRP 52-RE & NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

NIC 50-RE

Communication for simple slave devices without a host processor of their own

COMX 51CN-RE

Flexible communication module for automation

NRPLFW-ECS

Full version for NRP 52-RE & NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

NJEB-E

For every netJACK with PCI Express

NJ 100DN-RE

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

NRP 52-RE

Ready-to-solder netX design in stamp format

NIC 50-DNS

Communication for simple slave devices without a host processor of their own

NJ 100EN-CO

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

NRP H90

Ultracompact netX 90 design - tested completely

COMX 100CN-DP

Flexible communication module for automation

NJ 52D-DPS

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

NRPLFW-PLS

Full version for NRP 52-RE & NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

COMX 100CA-DN

Flexible communication module for automation

NIC 50-RE/NHS

Communication for simple slave devices without a host processor of their own

NIC 52-RE

Communication for simple slave devices without a host processor of their own

COMX 52CA-DNS

The module for all communication tasks

NRPLFW-EIS-IOT

Full version for NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

NICEB-REFO

Evaluation platform netIC with fiber optic cable

COMX 100CA-DP

Flexible communication module for automation

NIC 50-DPS

Communication for simple slave devices without a host processor of their own

COMX 100CA-CO

Flexible communication module for automation

NIC 50-REFO/PNS

Communication for simple slave devices with connection to fiber optic cable

COMX 51CA-RE

Flexible communication module for automation

NRPLFW-OMB

Full version for NRP 52-RE & NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

COMX 100CN-DN

Flexible communication module for automation

NJEB-D

For every netJACK with dual-port memory or SPI

NRPEB 51-RE

Equipped with an NRP 51-RE

COMX 52CA-COS

The module for all communication tasks

NICEB-RE

An evaluation platform for all Real-Time-Ethernet protocols

COMX 51CA-RE\R/ECS

The module for the semiconductor manufacturing equipment market

NRP H90 (preloaded)

Ultracompact netX 90 design - tested and loaded completely

COMX 52CA-DPS

The module for all communication tasks

COMX 100CA-RE

Flexible communication module for automation

NIC 52-REFO

Communication for simple slave devices with connection to fiber optic cable

COMX 100CN-DP\NIF

Flexible communication module for automation

NRP 51-RE

Ready-to-solder netX design in stamp format

NJ 100EN-DP

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

NRP H90\F8D8

Ultracompact netX 90 design - tested completely

COMX 52CN-COS

The module for all communication tasks

NJ 52D-DNS

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

NRP H90\F8D8 (preloaded)

Ultracompact netX 90 design - tested and preloaded completely

NRPLFW-EIS

Full version for NRP 52-RE & NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

NJ 100EN-DN

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

COMX 52CN-DNS

The module for all communication tasks

COMX 100CN-CO

Flexible communication module for automation

NJ 52D-COS

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

NRPLFW-PNS

Full version for NRP 52-RE & NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

NIC 50-COS

Communication for simple slave devices without a host processor of their own

COMX 100CN-RE

Flexible communication module for automation

NRPLFW-PNS-IOT

Full version for NRP 51-RE including 6 hours support

COMXEB

Development platform for all comX types

NRPEB H90-RE

Equipped with an NRP H90-RE\F8D8

COMX 52CN-DPS

The module for all communication tasks

NJ 100EN-RE

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

NICEB-FB

An evaluation platform for all fieldbusses

NJ 100DN-DP

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

NRPEB 52-RE

NJ 51D-RE/PNS

For mounting at any time in the delivery chain

COMX 90CA-RE

Flexible communication module for automation

Support for your projects

Support for your projects

Support for your projects

Support for your projects

Controller (m/f/d) – Focus on Production Controlling & Reporting

Buyer for Indirect Materials & Services (m/f/d)

Production Planning and Control Specialist (m/f/d)

Head of Finance (m/f/d)

Financial Accountant (m/f/d)

Technical Documentation Specialist (m/f/d)

Production Employee (m/f/d)

Controller (m/f/d) – Focus on Production Controlling & Reporting

Buyer for Indirect Materials & Services (m/f/d)

Production Planning and Control Specialist (m/f/d)

Head of Finance (m/f/d)

Financial Accountant (m/f/d)

Technical Documentation Specialist (m/f/d)

Production Employee (m/f/d)

Industrial-Grade Microcontrollers or Processors

Memory

Industrial I/O Interfaces

Real-time Communication Interfaces

Real-time Operating Systems (RTOS)

Industrial Protocol Stacks

Safety and Security Considerations

Edge Computing

Connectivity Advancements

Embedded Security

Customer Center / Sales Hilscher Gesellschaft für Systemautomation mbH

Support for your projects

Our embedded modules for all industrial protocols

Our embedded modules for all industrial protocols

IP40 Interchangeable Module

Communication Module

DIL-32 Communication IC

netX Chip Carrier

netRAPID 51/52 loadable firmware - CC-Link IE Field Basic Slave

Communication module SPI - CC-Link Slave

netRAPID 51/52 loadable firmware - Sercos Slave

DIL-32 communication IC - Real-Time-Ethernet slave

Communication module SPI - Real-Time Ethernet Slave

netRAPID 51/52 loadable firmware - EtherCAT Slave

netJACK Evaluation Board PCI Express

Exchangeable module dual-port memory - Real-Time Ethernet

netX 52 Chip Carrier incl. transformer - Real-Time Ethernet slave

DIL-32 communication IC - DeviceNet Slave

Exchangeable Module PCI Express - CANopen

netX 90 Chip Carrier - programming platform

Communication module dual-port memory - PROFIBUS DP / MPI

Exchangeable module SPI - PROFIBUS DP Slave

netRAPID 51/52 loadable firmware - POWERLINK Controlled Node

Communication module dual-port memory - DeviceNet

DIL-32 communication IC without heat sink - Real-Time-Ethernet slave

DIL-32 communication IC - Real-Time-Ethernet slave

Communication module SPI - DeviceNet Slave

netRAPID 51/52 loadable firmware - EtherNet/IP Adapter, MQTT client, OPC UA server

netIC Evaluation Board with fiber optic cable - PROFINET IO-Device

Communication module dual-port memory - PROFIBUS DP / MPI

DIL-32 communication IC - PROFIBUS DP Slave

Communication module dual-port memory - CANopen

DIL-32 communication IC for fiber optic cable - PROFINET IO-Device

Communication module SPI - Real-Time Ethernet Slave

netRAPID 51/52 loadable firmware - Open Modbus/TCP

Communication module dual-port memory - DeviceNet

netJACK Evaluation Board dual-port memory

netRAPID 51 Evaluation Board - Real-Time Ethernet

Communication module SPI - CANopen Slave

netIC Evaluation Board - Real-Time-Ethernet slave

Communication module for the semiconductor industry

netX 90 Chip Carrier - preloaded protocol stack

Communication module SPI - PROFIBUS DP Slave

Communication module dual-port memory - Real-Time-Ethernet

DIL-32 communication IC for fiber optic cable - PROFINET IO-Device

Communication module dual-port memory - PROFIBUS DP

netX 51 Chip Carrier with an additional memory - Real-Time Ethernet slave

Exchangeable Module PCI Express - PROFIBUS DP

netX 90 Chip Carrier with an additional memory - programming platform

Communication module SPI - CANopen Slave

Exchangeable module SPI - DeviceNet Slave

netX 90 Chip Carrier with an additional memory - preloaded protocol stack