ODVA Publishes Updated CIP Specifications
June 20, 2009 // Published as a news service by IHS
The Open DeviceNet Vendors Association (ODVA) published revised editions of the specifications for the family of Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) Networks specifically updating the EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, CompoNet and ControlNet technologies.
The revised editions represent the first update of these specifications in 2009 and contain additions for users seeking to deploy open networks in manufacturing automation, according to ODVA. Altogether, the revised editions include 14 enhancements to the specifications.
Because control power distribution is a "high cost, high risk element" in machine design and installation, cost savings are being made through deployments of modular power distribution systems, according to ODVA.
However, factory automation uses different control voltages for machine control and end-users have been requesting that components be standardized including permissible noise limits.
Therefore, ODVA is defining practices for auxiliary power circuits by defining a set of rules for components, devices and wiring practices initially by addressing the 24 volt auxiliary wiring for extra low-voltage circuits.
Because of the numbers of products in the marketplace that support 24 volt auxiliary power, the enhancement is designed to be an informative addition to the CIP and will help provide a solution for CIP Networks. Examples of this system in use are E-stop systems, auxiliary power for I/O devices and power with Ethernet.
By defining the cabling components and power supply requirements, a standardized system can be designed and built with cables, connectors and devices that are plug-and-play compatible.
With fiber becoming more prevalent in automation systems, ODVA added an option for an SC-RJ connector, as well as Variant 1 housing suitable for industrial environments. Following on from the 2008 introduction of a 1 millimeter polymer optical fiber (POF) as a physical layer option for EtherNet/IP, the SC-RJ with POF offers a solution for installing and terminating in the field with limited training and supporting termination techniques for fiber preparation and crimping.
Polishing of the fiber is optional. In addition to supporting the 1 millimeter POF, the SC-RJ connector is suitable for all EtherNet/IP defined fiber types.
The specifications are organized as a group of publications titled The CIP Networks Library. Each specification is made up of one or more volumes from the CIP library.
The current and updated editions of the specifications are:
- EtherNet/IP Specification Comprised of the CIP Networks Library: Volumes One (Edition 3.6), Two (Edition 1.7) and Seven (Edition 1.3).
- DeviceNet Specification Comprised of the CIP Networks Library: Volumes One (Edition 3.6), Three (Edition 1.7) and Seven (Edition 1.3).
- ControlNet Specification Comprised of the CIP Networks Library: Volumes One (Edition 3.6), Four (Edition 1.3) and Seven (Edition 1.3).
- CompoNet Specification Comprised of the CIP Networks Library: Volumes One (Edition 3.6), Six (Edition 1.5) and Seven (Edition 1.3).
- CIP Safety Specification Comprised of the CIP Networks Library: Volume Five (Edition 2.2).
ODVA expects that devices containing new enhancements found in the updated specifications will be available in 2009.
Source: Open DeviceNet Vendors Association (ODVA).