New ProLinx Modbus TCP/IP and Ethernet/IP to CC-Link Gateways

9 March 2011

ProSoft Technology has been a leader in the field of industrial networking for over 20 years. The company recently introduced a pair of gateway products that offer increased options to companies operating automation systems from multiple vendors. The new gateway products allow either a Modbus TCP/IP or an Ethernet/IP installation to be connected to a […]

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What is cyclic communication?

2 March 2011

One of the key features of the CC-Link IE controller network is the use of cyclic communication, which provides both system flexibility and ease of application for the user. This cyclic communication is central to enabling co-ordinated control between the controllers in the network for processes that need deterministic synchronised action. But how does it […]

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What makes CC-Link the Non-Stop Open Network?

23 February 2011

One of the major benefits of CC-Link networks is the ability to maintain operation even when problems occur. The technical term of this is the provision of enhanced reliability, availability and serviceability (RAS) functions, but we think “The Non-Stop Open Network” says it in a more memorable way. These functions provide operators of CC-Link networks […]

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CC-Link Partner Products: a wide and growing selection

23 February 2011

The list of CC-Link Partner Products continues to grow, and some users may be surprised at the choice of devices available for them to use in their CC-Link networks. The full portfolio of CC-Link Compliant products is listed on the CC-Link Partner Association website, and comprises growing lists of master, slave and peripheral devices that […]

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Compliant, Recommended or Reference?

16 February 2011

When building a CC-Link network, it is important to understand the different terminology applied to the components that go to make up the network. Because while it may well be possible to create a network using many components that are not necessarily intended for use in CC-Link networks, it is only by using the correct […]

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How does a conformance test work?

9 February 2011

CC-Link conformance testing covers three main areas; connectability, noise immunity and ageing. Connectability verifies the correct hardware and software operation for communication on the network. Noise immunity ensures that the device meets the required standard for rejection of electrical interference (a key strength of CC-Link), and finally, ageing insures that the device will perform as […]

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Why conformance test?

2 February 2011

Since CC-Link is an open network, its strength lies in offering many different devices from many different manufacturers (currently over 1000 CC-Link products are available). However, openness sometimes brings unwanted problems. Although CC-Link specifies the required designs and components needed for building a product, without conformance testing, there are no assurances that a device will […]

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New CC-Link Conformance Test Centre Opens in Europe

26 January 2011

January 2011 sees an important step forward for CC-Link support in Europe. The official European conformance test centre opens its doors, increasing the convenience for CC-Link partners based in Europe. This is a significant increase in support for CC-Link in Europe, as previously a partner would have needed to send their product to testing centres […]

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The CC-Link Partner Product Catalogue

19 January 2011

The latest edition of the CC-Link Partner Product Catalogue is an invaluable work of reference for anyone charged with creating or maintaining any CC-Link network. Available electronically or as hard copy, the catalogue details more than 1100 different products from the ever-growing list of CC-Link partner companies, and addresses the requirements of all different “flavours” […]

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What is SLMP?

12 January 2011

SLMP, or Seamless Message Protocol, is a feature of the CC-Link IE Field network that allows users to vertically integrate field devices with controllers to information systems, and seamlessly connect field systems to information systems. Standard Ethernet-compatible devices such as barcode readers and RFID scanners can be seamlessly connected using SLMP over the TCP/IP. SLMP […]

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