What is meant by Industrial IoT (IIoT)?
Industrial IoT (IIoT) refers to the networking of machines, systems, and industrial devices with the internet. The goal is to collect production data in real time, analyze it, and use it for optimization. This goes beyond data acquisition to include increased efficiency, predictive maintenance, and the integration of production and IT systems.
What role does edge computing play in IIoT?
Edge computing means that data is processed directly at its point of origin (at the machine or gateway) before being transferred to the cloud or IT systems. This reduces latency, minimizes data volume, and allows companies to retain control over sensitive production data.
Which IIoT and edge computing solutions does Hilscher offer?
- netFIELD platform: Open edge computing solution with cloud connectivity and container management
- netFIELD devices: Edge gateways for connecting machines and controllers
- Embedded modules and chips (netX): Integration of IIoT functionality directly into devices
- Communication gateways: Connecting fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet networks to IoT systems
What are the benefits of Hilscher's IIoT and edge solutions?
- Real-time-capable data processing directly at the machine
- Support for numerous fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet protocols
- Container-based architecture for flexible software extensions
- Easy integration into existing IT/OT environments
- Centralized management and updates via the cloud
- Future-proof operation through support for OPC UA, MQTT, and TSN
In which applications are edge computing solutions from Hilscher used?
- Predictive maintenance: Condition monitoring of machines and early fault detection
- Production optimization: Real-time analysis of process data
- Retrofit: Upgrading existing systems with IIoT capabilities
- Data preprocessing: Reducing big data volumes before cloud upload
- Remote maintenance & monitoring: Remote updates and centralized device management
How do Hilscher solutions integrate into existing production environments?
Hilscher solutions are based on netX technology, which supports virtually all relevant industrial communication protocols. This enables seamless integration of machines using different networks (e.g., PROFINET, EtherCAT, Modbus, CC-Link). Via edge gateways and the netFIELD platform, data is forwarded to IT systems or cloud services.
Which security mechanisms does Hilscher provide?
Hilscher relies on modern IT and OT security standards, including:
- Encrypted communication (TLS, VPN)
- Role-based access control
- Secure container isolation in netFIELD
- Remote updates for security patches
- Industrial-grade hardware with long-term support
Which industries benefit from IIoT and edge computing with Hilscher?
- Machinery and plant engineering
- Automotive industry
- Process industries (chemicals, pharmaceuticals, energy)
- Logistics and material handling
- Robotics and motion control
What sets Hilscher apart from other IIoT providers?
- Strong OT expertise with decades of experience in industrial networks
- Broad protocol support enabled by netX technology
- Open platform (netFIELD) instead of proprietary systems
- Combination of hardware and software—from embedded chips to cloud solutions
- Industrial focus: Solutions designed specifically for harsh production environments
Why are IIoT and edge computing indispensable for Industry 4.0?
Without IIoT and edge computing, production data cannot be used efficiently. With the right solutions, companies gain transparency, flexibility, and efficiency in their processes. Hilscher supports this with scalable products that modernize existing systems and enable new Industry 4.0 projects.
What does Hilscher mean by “end-user products”?
Hilscher refers to end-user products as ready-to-use communication solutions that can be directly integrated into industrial applications without the need for additional development work. These include, for example, PC cards, gateways, and protocol analyzers.
Which kind of PC cards does Hilscher offer for industrial communication?
Hilscher offers a wide range of PC cards for various form factors and protocols, including:
- M.2
- PCI Express
- Low Profile PCI Express
- Mini PCI Express (half and full size)
- PCI
- CompactPCI
These cards support various industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols, enabling flexible integration into existing systems.
Which kind of gateways does Hilscher offer for industrial communication?
Hilscher offers gateways for a variety of protocol combinations, including:
- Industrial Ethernet / Fieldbus / Serial
- Remote Master
- netSWITCH for Industrial Ethernet
- SmartWire-DT Gateways
These gateways enable connection, communication and segmentation between different industrial networks and devices.
What are protocol analyzers?
Protocol analyzers are tools for monitoring and analyzing communication protocols in industrial networks.
Are Hilscher end-user products multi-protocol capable?
Yes, many Hilscher products support multiple protocols, allowing flexible integration into various industrial networks. This simplifies adaptation to different communication standards and reduces the need for dedicated hardware for each protocol.
How can I purchase Hilscher end-user products?
Hilscher products can be purchased directly through the official website or via authorized distribution partners. For specific product inquiries or consultation, you can use the contact form on the website or get in touch directly with the Hilscher team.
What does Hilscher offer in the OEM Embedded sector?
Hilscher provides OEM embedded solutions that enable multi-protocol communication for all major Industrial Ethernet and fieldbus systems. These solutions are scalable — ranging from a 10x10 mm chip (SoC) to a fully integrated plug-on module.
What are the advantages of Hilscher's OEM Embedded solutions?
- Multi-protocol capability: Support for all common Industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols
- Scalability: Solutions from compact SoCs to complete modules
- Design flexibility: Easy integration into a wide variety of device types and applications
- Future-proof: Ready for upcoming demands in industrial communication
What applications are Hilscher OEM Embedded solutions suitable for?
These solutions are ideal for a wide range of industrial automation applications, including:
- Controllers and PLCs
- Drive technology
- Sensors and actuators
- Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI)
- Industrial PCs and embedded systems
How does Hilscher support OEMs with integration?
Hilscher offers comprehensive support for OEMs, including:
- Technical consulting and design-in support
- Provision of development tools and resources
- Training sessions and workshops
- Long-term partnerships for ongoing innovation and development
How can I learn more about Hilscher’s OEM Embedded solutions?
More information can be found on Hilscher’s OEM Embedded web page. For personalized consultation or specific inquiries, you can use the contact form on the website or reach out directly to the Hilscher team.
Which training courses does Hilscher offer?
Hilscher offers in-depth technology training courses in the areas of industrial communication, fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet technologies, as well as Industrial IoT. The company’s proprietary netX multiprotocol controllers—the technological foundation of all Hilscher's communication products—are a central focus of many of these training sessions.
Who are the training courses intended for?
The training courses are designed for developers, system integrators, commissioning engineers, technical sales professionals, as well as project managers and technical decision-makers working in the field of industrial communication and automation.
How can I register for a training course?
Information about current training courses is usually available on the Hilscher website. There, you can submit a training request. Alternatively, you may contact the Hilscher team via the contact form to arrange customized training offerings.
Are customized training courses available for companies?
Yes. Hilscher offers customized training courses that are tailored in advance to the specific requirements, systems, and application scenarios of your company. These training sessions can be conducted either on-site or online.
What are the benefits of Hilscher training courses?
The training courses enable direct interaction with experienced Hilscher experts and promote a solid understanding of industrial communication technologies. Participants benefit from hands-on insights into the use of Hilscher products as well as from structured knowledge transfer covering standardized industrial communication protocols.
Who conducts the training?
Hilscher’s training team consists of experienced experts with in-depth knowledge of industrial communication and many years of practical experience in the application and integration of Hilscher technologies.
In which languages are the training courses conducted?
Training courses are typically conducted in German or English. Additional languages may be available upon request through Hilscher’s local representatives.
Where do the training courses take place?
Training courses can be held at a Hilscher-organized venue, on-site at the customer’s location, or online—depending on requirements and availability. Specific training locations are announced as part of the respective event information or agreed upon individually.
How long do the training courses last?
The duration of the training courses depends on the topic and depth of content. Workshops and online seminars usually last between half a day and one full day, while customized intensive training courses may extend over several days.
Will I receive a certificate of participation after completing the training?
Yes. Upon successful participation, a personalized certificate of attendance is automatically issued and sent electronically. Administration is handled via Hilscher’s internal training management system, which provides the document and records participation.
Which SoCs are multi-protocol capable?
The netX communication coltrollers from Hilscher are multi-protocol-capable SoCs. They offer the following advantages and benefits:
- Reduced development effort thanks to a uniform platform
- High flexibility in protocol selection
- Future-proof thanks to update capability
Which protocols does Hilscher's netX 90 support?
netX 90 enables flexible support for numerous fieldbus and industrial Ethernet protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and CC-Link as well as IIoT protocols such as OPC UA and MQTT.
What is netX?
netX is the brand name of a communication processor technology from Hilscher that was developed specifically for industrial networks.
What is Hilscher's netX family?
The netX family is a series of communication processors from Hilscher that have been specially developed for industrial networks. They enable flexible support for almost all fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet protocols and form the basis of many Hilscher products such as PC cards, embedded modules, gateways, and edge devices.
What netX variants are available?
netX 51/52: for classic fieldbuses and simple Industrial Ethernet applications
netX 90: compact, energy-efficient multi-protocol processor for secure device applications and modern IIoT devices
netX 100/500 series: for complex controller applications with high throughput
netX 900 series: Multi-core architecture for secure controller applications and demanding device use cases
Which protocols does the netX family support?
The netX processors are multi-protocol capable and support, among others:
- Industrial Ethernet: PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, CC-Link IE Field
- Feldbuses: Profibus, CANopen, DeviceNet, Interbus
- IIoT protocols: OPC UA, MQTT in combination with PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, and Modbus
- Future technologies: TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking)
What makes the netX family special?
- Multi-protocol capability with a single hardware base
- Pre-certified protocol stacks
- Upgradeability for new standards and protocols
- Cyber-secure according to IEC 62443
- Compact design for embedded applications
- High real-time capability for industrial communication
- Long product life cycles for industrial requirements
In which Hilscher products is netX used?
- PC cards (cifX series) for industrial PCs
- Embedded modules (comX, netJACK, netRAPID) for direct integration
- Gateways and edge devices for networking heterogeneous systems
What advantages do device manufacturers gain from using netX?
- Shorter development time, as there is no need to develop your own communication processor
- Flexibility, as multiple protocols are supported on the same hardware
- Scalability, from simple devices to complex control systems
- Investment security, as Hilscher guarantees long-term availability
For which applications is netX particularly suitable?
- Mechanical engineering – Integration of various communication standards
- Robotics and motion control – Real-time communication for precise movements
- Industrial control systems
- Process industry – Real-time networking of numerous field devices
- IIoT devices – Connection of edge and cloud systems
- Automotive industry – Highly available and fast networks in production lines
How does the netX family contribute to Industry 4.0?
The netX processors enable devices to be protocol-independent and future-proof. By supporting TSN, OPC UA, and IIoT standards, they are central building blocks for digital factory and smart factory concepts.
What role does the netX 90 play in the product family?
The netX 90 is one of the smallest and most energy-efficient multi-protocol processors on the market. It is particularly suitable for compact devices, sensors, actuators, and IIoT applications as well as and applications that require little energy but demand full protocol diversity.
Who might be interested in the netX family?
- Device manufacturers (OEMs) who offer their products in different markets
- System integrators who need to connect heterogeneous networks
- Machine builders who are looking for a future-proof communication basis
- Industrial companies that rely on standardization and flexibility
What protocols does netFIELD Data Acquisition support?
netFIELD Data Acquisition supports all major industrial communication protocols including EtherCAT, PROFINET, Modbus, IO-Link, OPC UA, MQTT, and many others. Our edge gateways leverage Hilscher's netX technology and decades of multi-protocol expertise, ensuring comprehensive protocol coverage for virtually any industrial application.
How can I retrofit existing machines without changing PLC programs?
Our plug & play approach allows you to tap into machine data without any modifications to existing control programs. The netFIELD edge gateway connects to your machine's communication network (like EtherCAT or PROFINET) and reads process data passively. Using our no-code configuration apps, you simply select which data points to collect and where to send them. No programming required, no risk to proven control logic.
Is netFIELD Data Acquisition secure for OT environments?
Yes, security is built in from the ground up. Our edge gateways are specifically designed for operational technology (OT) environments with features like hardware-based encryption, secure boot, secure firmware updates, and integrity checks. The platform is ready for compliance with the Cyber Resilience Act, IEC 62443, and NIS-2 standards. Data flows are throughly controlled to maintain network segmentation between OT and IT/cloud systems.
What is the difference between Data Acquisition and Device Management?
netFIELD Data Acquisition focuses on collecting and forwarding machine data to cloud platforms or IT systems: it is about getting data out of machines. netFIELD Device Management focuses on managing the edge infrastructure itself: deploying software, remote access, and fleet management. Both solutions can work independently or be combined for comprehensive IIoT capabilities.
Can I test the software before purchasing it?
The free netFIELD Cloud account allows you to evaluate and test the full range of platform features at no cost and with no obligation. There are no fees and no contractual commitments involved. With the free account, you can manage up to two devices at the same time. If you would like to manage more devices in the future, you can upgrade your account to a paid subscription at any time.
For more information about the free account and the available subscription plans, please visit https://netfield.io.
How quickly can I implement a data acquisition project?
Thanks to the no-code configuration approach, implementation is dramatically faster than traditional development projects. Typical deployments can be configured in hours or days rather than weeks or months. You don't need programming expertise. Engineers familiar with the machine and its communication protocols can configure data acquisition directly using our intuitive tools. Get in touch with us for further assistance.
What are Hilscher PC cards?
Hilscher PC cards, known as the cifX series, are communication cards for PCs and embedded systems. They enable connection to fieldbus and industrial Ethernet networks and are particularly suitable for automation applications in which a computer needs to exchange data with industrial controllers.
Which PC card form factors are available?
The Hilscher cifX series is available in various form factors, including:
- PCI
- PCI Express (PCIe)
- mini PCIe
- CompactPCI / CompactPCI Serial
- M.2 format
- Low Profile PCIe
Which protocols do the PC cards support?
Thanks to the netX technology, the cards support a wide range of Industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols, such as: PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, CC-Link IE Field, as well as classic fieldbuses like PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, or CANopen.
What are typical applications?
- Use in an industrial PC
- Fieldbus connectivity for Windows- or Linux-based IPCs
- Test and development environments for fieldbus and Ethernet protocols
How easy is integration?
The cifX cards are plug-and-play capable and are delivered with a unified driver and API concept. This allows developers to use the same interface regardless of the protocol, significantly simplifying integration.
What distinguishes Hilscher PC cards from other solutions?
- Multi-network capability: One hardware platform can support different protocols
- Unified API: The same software interface for all cards and protocols
- Long-term availability: Industrial-grade designs with long-term supply
- Flexibility: A wide range of form factors for any PC architecture
- Broad driver support for using cifX cards with all common operating systems
What are the benefits of cifX cards?
- Easy integration into existing systems
- Wide selection of form factors for different IPCs
- Support for nearly all relevant fieldbus and Ethernet protocols
- Unified software environment for fast development
- Rugged, industrial-grade hardware
How are the cards configured and managed?
Configuration is done using the Hilscher toolchain (e.g., Communication Studio) and the cifX SDK. Updates and firmware changes can easily be deployed via the PC.
In which industries are Hilscher PC cards used?
- Automation technology
- Machinery and plant engineering
- Manufacturing industry
- Test and measurement technology
- Production lines with heterogeneous networks
Who are Hilscher PC cards intended for?
They are particularly attractive for system integrators, machine builders, and developers who want to connect their PC-based systems to industrial networks—flexibly, quickly, and with minimal development effort.
What is the Hilscher IO-Link Wireless Master?
The Hilscher IO-Link Wireless Master is a communication module that acts as an interface between complex IO-Link devices (e.g., sensors and actuators) and Industrial Ethernet networks. It enables simple, wireless integration of field devices into control systems and IIoT applications.
What is the function of an IO-Link Wireless Master?
- Management of multiple IO-Link devices via the IO-Link Wireless standard
- Translation of IO-Link communication into Industrial Ethernet protocols
- Provision of real-time process and service data
- Support for parameterization and diagnostic functions for connected devices via OPC UA server and MQTT client
Which Industrial Ethernet protocols are supported by the Hilscher IO-Link Wireless Master?
Thanks to netX technology, the Hilscher IO-Link Wireless Master supports various Industrial Ethernet protocols, including:
- PROFINET
- EtherCAT
- EtherNet/IP
What are the benefits of using IO-Link Wireless Masters?
- Vendor independence thanks to IO-Link standardization
- Compatible with IO-Link standards while offering comparable performance
- Diagnostic capabilities for predictive maintenance
- Real-time transmission of process data to controllers
- Two parallel IO-Link Wireless transmission paths enable simultaneous communication with up to 16 IO-Link Wireless devices
- Minimum possible transmission time of 5 ms per device
- Easy integration into existing Industrial Ethernet networks
- Future-proof through compatibility with Industry 4.0 and IIoT
- Scan mode for easy pairing of IO-Link devices
- Rugged IP67 design – protection against dust and water ingress
- Firmware download, authentication, and IO-Link port configuration via an integrated web server
In which applications are Hilscher IO-Link Wireless Masters used?
- Connectivity and IO-Link-level integration in harsh environments for machinery and plant engineering where wired solutions cannot be used
- Flexible robotic applications, as the IO-Link Wireless Master enables full freedom of movement
- In general, suitable for any application where a reduction in wiring is required
- Mechanical engineering: flexible expansion of systems with additional IO devices
- IIoT projects: use of service data from IO-Link devices for cloud or edge applications
Which diagnostic functions are available with the Hilscher IO-Link Wireless Master?
- Detection of device errors or connection issues
- Monitoring of parameters such as signal quality or temperature
- Event logs for predictive maintenance
Which industries benefit most from IO-Link Wireless Masters?
- Manufacturing technology and the automotive industry (high sensor density, flexible systems)
- Food and packaging industry (frequently changing sensor setups)
- Process industry (large number of field devices with diagnostic requirements)
- Robotics and handling systems (precise control and monitoring)
Why is the Hilscher IO-Link Wireless Master particularly interesting for Industrial Ethernet?
Because it combines the strengths of IO-Link (standardization, diagnostics, flexibility) with the advantages of Industrial Ethernet (real-time capability, integration, scalability) and wireless functionality. This makes it ideally suited for Industry 4.0 and the development of modern, digitally networked factories.
What are Hilscher analysis devices?
Hilscher analysis devices are industrial tools for diagnosing and monitoring Industrial Ethernet networks. They help identify communication issues, quickly locate network faults, and ensure the availability of machines and systems.
What tasks do Hilscher analysis devices perform?
- Real-time monitoring of network traffic
- Analysis of communication protocols (e.g., PROFINET, EtherCAT, etc.)
- Fault diagnosis in the event of disturbances or failures
- Long-term recording for documentation of network conditions
Which analysis products does Hilscher offer?
- netANALYZER – analysis device for Industrial Ethernet (PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, etc.
- netSCOPE – software extension for the netANALYZER enabling automated data analysis without interfering with the PLC or device software
Which protocols can be analyzed using Hilscher analysis devices?
- Industrial Ethernet: PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, CC-Link IE Field
- IoT interfaces: Analysis of protocols such as OPC UA or MQTT (in combination with edge devices)
What are the benefits of Hilscher analysis devices?
- Fast fault localization in case of network issues
- Reduced downtime through precise diagnostics
- Real-time-capable recording, even in highly dynamic networks
- Cost efficiency due to reduced maintenance and service effort
- Support for retrofit and modernization of existing systems
How does the netANALYZER work?
The netANALYZER is inserted into the Industrial Ethernet network and records telegrams in real time. With nanosecond-level time resolution, it enables detailed analysis of cycle times, jitter, and packet loss—ideal for commissioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
What role does netSCOPE play?
netSCOPE is the matching software for the netANALYZER. It visualizes recorded data packets, displays protocol details, and provides dedicated diagnostic views for PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, and other protocols.
In which applications are analysis devices indispensable?
- Commissioning of new machines and systems
- Maintenance and service in production environments
- Troubleshooting of unclear communication issues
- Quality assurance through continuous monitoring
- Retrofit projects to securely integrate legacy and modern networks
Who are Hilscher analysis devices intended for?
- Machine and plant builders commissioning networks
- Service and maintenance technicians who need to resolve failures quickly
- System integrators managing heterogeneous networks
- Manufacturing companies aiming to ensure high system availability
Why are Hilscher analysis devices important for Industry 4.0?
They increase transparency in complex communication networks and provide a reliable data basis for predictive maintenance and process optimization. As a result, they are a key component of modern smart factory and IIoT concepts.
Why are gateways needed in industrial communication?
Gateways are required as interfaces between different fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet protocols. They enable seamless communication and segmentation between machines, controllers, and networks, even when different standards are used.
What are multiprotocol gateways?
A multiprotocol gateway is a gateway that supports multiple communication protocols, such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, and PROFIBUS. This allows multiple protocol conversions to be implemented with a single device.
What functions do Hilscher gateways provide?
- Protocol conversion between fieldbuses and Industrial Ethernet
- Integration of legacy and modern networks (retrofit)
- Real-time data transmission between controllers and devices
- Coupling of network segments using the same or different protocols
Which protocols do Hilscher gateways support?
Thanks to netX technology, Hilscher gateways support all common protocols, including:
- Industrial Ethernet: PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, CC-Link IE Field, Sercos, POWERLINK
- Classic fieldbuses: PROFIBUS, CANopen, DeviceNet, CC-Link
- Serial protocols: Modbus RTU, ASCII, 3964R
What are the benefits of gateways?
- Easy integration into heterogeneous networks
- Future-proof operation through broad protocol support
- Rugged, industrial-grade design
- Support for real-time communication
- Protection of existing systems as part of retrofit solutions
In which applications are gateways used?
- Machinery and plant engineering: Connecting different control systems
- Process industry: Data integration between field devices and control rooms
- Automotive industry: Real-time-capable communication in production lines
- Retrofit projects: Upgrading legacy machines to modern technologies
What differentiates Hilscher gateways from other vendors?
- Support for all major industrial protocols with master and slave functionality
- Hilscher gateways are based on proprietary chip technology (netX)
- Integrated netX technology enables a wide variety of protocol conversions within a single gateway
- Robust hardware designed for continuous industrial operation
- Made in Germany
- Broad product portfolio covering a wide range of application scenarios
Who are Hilscher gateways and switches intended for?
- Machine builders requiring flexible network connectivity
- Plant operators looking to connect heterogeneous systems
- System integrators aiming to link legacy installations with modern technology
- Industrial companies seeking to future-proof their production
Which gateway product groups does Hilscher offer?
netTAP 50: Entry-level gateways for simple conversions. Supports device-to-device conversions for segment coupling and device-to-controller conversions for device integration. As a controller, the netTAP 50 provides full controller functionality to only one device.
netTAP 100: Flexible, high-performance gateway family. Supports device-to-device conversions for segment coupling and device-to-controller conversions for device integration in any combination.
netTAP 151: High-end gateway specifically designed for Industrial Ethernet networks. Supports device-to-device conversions for segment coupling and device-to-controller conversions for device integration in any combination.
netLINK PROXY: Compact proxy connector that converts a PROFIBUS device into a PROFINET device. Plug-and-play functionality minimizes installation effort.
netLINK MPI: Compact programming adapter enabling programming, data visualization, and control of Siemens PLCs (S7-200®, S7-300®, or S7-400®) via Ethernet TCP/IP.
netTAP MPI: DIN-rail version of the netLINK MPI, enabling programming, data visualization, and control of Siemens PLCs (S7-200®, S7-300®, or S7-400®) via Ethernet TCP/IP.
netHOST: Enables control of fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet systems via standard Ethernet.
SmartWire-DT Gateways: Connect SmartWire-DT devices to higher-level Industrial Ethernet networks.
In which applications is the Hilscher SPE Media Switch used?
- Integration of existing sensors into an SPE network
- Integration of new SPE sensors into existing systems
- Adding IoT functionality to legacy installations
Can I retrofit existing plants for Industry 4.0?
Yes, many industrial plants and machines can be retrofitted for Industry 4.0 use cases. With the netFIELD product portfolio, Hilscher offers retrofit solutions for Industrial IoT data acquisition.
How can I access data from my machines?
If your machines do not already have Industrial IoT connectivity, they can often be retrofitted using edge gateways and made Industry 4.0–ready. With the netFIELD portfolio, Hilscher also offers retrofit solutions for existing plants and machines.
Do I need an edge gateway to read data from my machines?
Newer machines are sometimes already equipped with IoT connectivity. Older machines and plants can be retrofitted with an edge gateway to read Industrial IoT data. Hilscher’s netFIELD edge gateways are specifically designed for such industrial use cases.
Do I need to reprogram my controller to read data?
No, in many cases changes to the controller can be avoided. Hilscher offers a wide range of data acquisition apps, enabling the use of various protocols and interfaces.
How do I securely separate OT and IT?
Hilscher’s edge gateways are designed to provide a secure interface between OT and IT networks. They are equipped with an industrial-grade operating system and include state-of-the-art IT security features.
How complex is commissioning?
Hilscher’s data acquisition solutions are easy to install and require minimal effort. Hilscher follows a “no-code” approach to data acquisition, so in many cases browser-based device configuration is sufficient for commissioning.
Do I need programming skills for Industrial IoT retrofitting?
No programming skills are required for IIoT retrofitting with Hilscher edge gateways. Hilscher follows a “no-code” approach to data acquisition. Ready-to-use data acquisition applications are provided and can be commissioned through configuration alone.
How long does it take to see first results?
You can commission an edge gateway with data acquisition software within one business day and start capturing and visualizing initial data. Data interpretation depends on the specific machine type—sometimes data must be recorded over several days or weeks to gain meaningful insights.
Where is the data transferred to?
With Hilscher’s netFIELD edge gateways, you have full flexibility regarding where and how data is stored and processed. For example, you can initially store data in a local database directly on the edge gateway and later transfer it to a cloud application or your own database server.
What are the benefits of container apps?
Hilscher’s data acquisition applications are provided as containerized applications, allowing them to be easily installed and updated. All Hilscher edge gateways include a container runtime environment, enabling reliable installation of third-party applications such as databases, dashboards, cloud connectors, or low-code tools.
How do I keep the software up to date?
With the netFIELD Device Management platform, you can centrally manage all your devices and install software updates. Usage of the platform is even free for the first two devices with a “Free Account.”
How do I meet IT security requirements?
With netFIELD edge gateways, IT security requirements can be met with minimal effort. The devices are delivered with an industrial-hardened operating system and can optionally be centrally managed via the netFIELD platform. This makes it easy to implement processes required by regulations such as the EU Cyber Resilience Act or the NIS2 Directive.
Who are Hilscher data acquisition apps relevant for?
Machine builders who want to offer their customers additional functions flexibly; plant operators who want to future-proof their machines through digitalization; system integrators who need to combine different protocols or functions; IIoT developers who want to deploy their own apps on industrial hardware.
What are Hilscher Embedded Modules?
Hilscher Embedded Modules are compact communication modules based on netX technology. They can be directly integrated into controllers, devices, or machines to enable flexible connectivity to fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet networks—without requiring manufacturers to develop their own hardware from scratch.
Which types of embedded modules does Hilscher offer?
- comX modules – plug-in communication modules for industrial controllers
- netJACK – IP40 exchangeable module, tool-free mounting
- netRAPID – chip carrier for direct integration of netX into custom designs
Which protocols do the embedded modules support?
The embedded modules are based on netX processors and support a wide range of protocols, including:
Industrial Ethernet: PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, CC-Link IE Field
Fieldbuses: PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, CANopen, and others
Industrial IoT: OPC UA, MQTT
What advantages do embedded modules offer compared to in-house developments?
- Time to market: Faster market entry due to reduced development time
- Flexibility: Interchangeable modules for different protocols
- Unified software interface: Consistent API across all protocols
- Long-term availability: Industrial-grade form factors with many years of support
- Compact design: Minimal space requirements thanks to modular architecture
What is the difference between comX, netJACK, and netRAPID?
- comX: Universally applicable plug-in modules, flexible for various protocols
- netJACK: Inserted directly into the device front like a connector—ideal for modular devices
- netRAPID: Assembled chip module (chip carrier) soldered directly onto the mainboard—cost-efficient for series production
In which applications are Hilscher Embedded Modules used?
- Machinery and plant engineering: Integration into PLCs, motion controllers, and drives
- Robotics: Communication between robots and field devices
- Factory automation: Data transmission between sensors, actuators, and controllers
- IIoT devices: Connecting edge devices to industrial networks
How are the modules integrated?
Integration is straightforward, as Hilscher provides a unified software development kit (SDK) and driver concept. Developers access all protocols via a standardized API. Firmware updates and configurations can be easily deployed.
Are the embedded modules future-proof?
Yes. Thanks to the netX 90, the modules are update-capable and support both current and emerging technologies such as TSN and OPC UA. This makes them ideally suited for Industry 4.0 and IIoT applications.
Which industries benefit most from embedded modules?
- Automation technology
- Robotics and motion control
- Manufacturing technology
- Machine builders with modular product families
Who are Hilscher Embedded Modules intended for?
They are ideal for device manufacturers, OEMs, and machine builders who want to integrate their products quickly and flexibly into industrial communication networks—with minimal development effort and long-term investment security.