World’s First Embedded Industrial Communication Interface Supporting TSN Uses CC-Link IE TSN

Summary

The CC-Link Partner Association’s (CLPA) partner, HMS Networks, announced the release of a new embedded development option for designers of industrial automation devices compatible with CC-Link IE TSN. HMS Networks’ Anybus CompactCom 40 CC-Link IE TSN embedded communication interface provides a gigabit Ethernet connection and TSN functionality in one package. With CompactCom 40 CC-Link IE TSN, device manufacturers and machine builders get a fast track to connecting their products to CC-Link IE TSN networks for future-proof applications.

Benefits of TSN

CC-Link IE TSN is the first open industrial network protocol to combine gigabit Ethernet bandwidth with TSN functionality, delivering the advances of network convergence. Using the new Anybus device, product developers now have increased options when it comes to designing products that can take advantage of these benefits. The device can easily be designed into new products, or provide a convenient upgrade path for companies already using Anybus interfaces.

Working with CLPA to ensure fast, reliable communication

The CLPA supported HMS Networks in the development of Anybus CompactCom 40 CC-Link IE TSN, which is a fully compatible TSN product supporting certification class B. The award-winning Anybus NP40 industrial network processor is at the core of the CompactCom, ensuring high performance by transferring up to 1420 bytes of process data in each direction and guaranteeing synchronization accuracy of 1 μs or less.

Available in two formats

As with all Anybus CompactCom 40 products, the CC-Link IE TSN interface is available in different formats, enabling customers to choose the form factor that suits their needs.

• Module: An all-in-one solution that enables the fastest time to market. It includes hardware, firmware, as well as connectors, and is available with or without housing.
• Brick: Hardware and firmware packaged in a very compact brick form factor. This is the best choice for applications with limited space, and if a specific connector or protection class is required.

Quick installation

To ensure a smooth installation, Anybus provides expertise and documentation such as example driver code and a generic configuration file (CSP+). The installation process is even more straightforward if customers have previously integrated another CompactCom product into their device or machine, as they can reuse their existing in-design work.

A strong partnership

“We have been working closely with the CLPA and are extremely happy to help expand the comprehensive CLPA development ecosystem with Anybus,” said Samuel Alexandersson, business line director, Anybus Embedded, at HMS Networks. “It shows our commitment to TSN and allows companies to start working with the exciting CC-Link IE TSN technology without having to develop a solution themselves.”

Tom Burke, global strategic advisor at CLPA, commented, “We are thrilled that HMS Networks is continuing to support our open network technologies and equipped its latest Anybus CompactCom 40 with CC-Link IE TSN compatible communications. This is a state-of-the-art device that complements and expands the broad range of industrial automation products compatible with our leading technology. This latest achievement highlights the acceptance of CC-Link IE TSN as enabler for Industry 4.0 applications and it will support machine builders and end users in the creation of future-oriented, smart solutions that drive productivity, efficiency and ultimately competitiveness. We look forward to supporting the development of more CC-Link IE TSN certified components and their adoption.”

About The CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA)

The CLPA is an international organization founded in 2000, now celebrating its 20th Anniversary. Over the last 20 years, the CLPA has been dedicated to the technical development and promotion of the CC-Link open industrial network family. The CLPA's key technology is CC-Link IE TSN, the world's first open industrial Ethernet to combine gigabit bandwidth with Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN), making it the leading solution for Industry 4.0 applications. Currently the CLPA has over 3,800 corporate members worldwide, and more than 2,000 compatible products available from over 340 manufacturers. Around 30 million devices using CLPA technology are in use worldwide.