Versatility is the key to EtherNet/IP

摘要

Paul Brooks, European product manager for Rockwell Automation, gives his opinion on the reasons behind the huge take-up of EtherNet/IP protocol. With the recent announcement, by the ODVA, of the one millionth node installation, it is fair to say that EtherNet/IP has established itself. Since its earliest variant, Ethernet has seen almost exponential growth, helped by the explosion into the public consciousness of the world wide web. The need for a common protocol, accessible and useable by all, was a major driver and it is fair to say that Ethernet is now the primary technology that underpins the modern information age.