As devices are being constantly added to networks, device security is of paramount concern to asset owners. Complete system-level security must be built upon the foundations that consist of each individual component’s security functions, along with cybersecurity standards such as IEC 62443.

Synchronizing I/O tasks with application execution can result in improved application response times. In an ever-changing world where vendors are striving to eke out every bit of performance from their PLC systems, time synchronization is a method to add to the list of potential future upgrades.

Single Pair Ethernet offers reduction in wiring, node cost, size and power consumption, delivering communication and power over a single pair. New operational concepts are being developed to drive EtherNet/IP deployment to low-end constrained, in-cabinet devices such as contactors and push buttons.

Distributed IIoT applications require robust, secure operating systems to preprocess mission-critical information before transmitting to the cloud. Capable of addressing development, remote maintenance, data protection and support, Industrial Linux distributions have become popular edge gateway operating systems.

Digitization is shifting toward the sensor in the era of Industry 4.0 process automation. Implementation of smart sensors that can be integrated anywhere in a complex network allows them to pass on the digital form of recorded physical quantities over the network, versus digitizing analog signals transmitted to a controller.

Smart devices provide operators not only with I/O data but also with a wealth of information about industrial plant operation. Information collected from field devices such as diagnostic data, status information on devices and specific device parameters can also help plan predictive maintenance programs.

A modern network management system is an important part of maintaining plant availability in threat situations, as part of defense-in-depth in conjunction with firewalls and other security components. Especially against increasing cyberattacks, a network management system can deliver a decisive advantage.

The EtherCAT diagnosis interface provides machine and network diagnostic tools a general purpose, universal interface for EtherCAT networks. Tools can be used without the need to change specific master manufacturer or a vendor-proprietary access protocol for each different master implementation.

CAN Bus provides both high-performance and high-security that can be used for common applications that require strict stability and safety, including the aviation industry, vehicular use, medical instruments, military industry, railways, robotics and critical control systems.

The Standard Network Diagnostic Assembly is the first step in adding enhanced diagnostic capabilities to CIP devices. A standard structure provides a consisten set of diagnostic information in devices, with a goal of minimizing the messaging and user programming necessary to get the information to where it’s needed.