1. Introduction
Large Numbers of Inputs/Outputs
For EPSON RC+ standard I/O and expansion I/O, the number of inputs/outputs is limited to
512 inputs and 512 outputs. When configuring a device to be a master of fieldbus I/O, you
can control more than 16,000 total inputs and outputs.
For a slave device, 4,040 inputs (505 bytes) and 4,072 outputs (509 bytes) are available.
Different Connection Types
There are two messaging connections: I/O messaging connection and explicit messaging
connection. The I/O messaging connection includes cyclic and change of state. I/O
messaging connections are explained below:
Change Of State:
A device sends data whenever it changes. Signals for device diagnosis are sent
regularly in the background. This connection type is useful for remedying
EtherNet/IP communication traffic.
Cyclic: A slave device transfers data regularly according to its internal timer. This
connection type is typically used for communicating with a temperature controller.
The data transfer frequency is defined by master configuration.
For Change of State and Cyclic, you can disable the ACK that is for verifying that
communication is completed. Never disable ACK, since communication errors cannot be
detected.
)
NOTE
Functions of Master
The Master device gathers and controls all nodes on one network.
A EtherNet/IP master can control up to 127 nodes (max. 14 kbytes) on one network.
A PLC is typically configured as a master and controls all nodes in factory automation system,
but EPSON RC+ is also capable of being a master.
EtherNet/IP network configuration is specified by configuration management software. This
software is normally provided by a master device manufacturer. The configuration
management software determines parameters for each slave device via an Electronic Data
Sheet (EDS).
Available connection types are Cyclic, Change Of State, and explicit messaging.
Available baud rates are 100 Mbps and 10 Mbps. (auto-detect)
Functions of Slave
A slave can exchange data with a master device.
The configuration management software identifies parameters of each slave device via
Electronic Data Sheet (EDS) where the parameters are registered.
Available connection type is Cyclic.
Available baud rates are 100 Mbps and 10 Mbps. (auto-detect)
Fieldbus I/O Rev.6 9