The openPOWERLINK software package ‚– a sample implementation for Linux systems ‚– contains the protocol stack for the Managing Node (master) and the Controlled Nodes (clients). In this implementation, POWERLINK, which operates with standard on-board Ethernet controllers, reaches cycle times as low as 0.5 ms at high synchronicity. With co-processor support, it provides 0.1 ms cycle times. The BSD license lets anyone use, distribute, and modify openPOWERLINK and add to development enhancements.
In releasing its POWERLINK version, SYS TEC electronic, a systems house for automation solutions and member of the POWERLINK user organization EPSG, supports users and manufacturers alike by enabling them to closely analyze the Ethernet-based real-time protocol and to adapt it to their own applications without license obstacles. Interested parties can download the software from http://sourceforge.net/projects/openpowerlink free of charge.
B&R Industrial Automation Corp.
www.br-automation.com
::Design World::
Filed Under: Ethernet — cables • hubs • switches, Software
Tell Us What You Think!