ControlNet is an open-sourced industrial network protocol. It is best suited for industrial automation applications. Interestingly, it is also known as a Fieldbus. This industrial network protocol caters to the demands of high-throughput applications required for automation. Another exciting feature of this industrial network protocol lies in the fact that it facilitates processes of discrete claims. It is based on the token-passing bus control network interface, which is of great use in industrial automation. In this context, it is essential to note that ControlNet uses the Common Industrial Protocol to facilitate interconnection between various levels of the Open Systems Interaction (OSI). There are seven layers of OSI, namely data link, network, physical, session, presentation, transport, and application.

The Design of ControlNet

ControlNet is designed in such a manner that it provides high-speed control and reliable data transfer by the usage of programming. This, in, turn, sets the logic to a specific timing over the network and facilitates faster data transmission. The ControlNet Network comprises of devices like the I/O chassis, programmable logic controllers, personal computers as well as drivers. In this context, it is vital here to note that ControlNet has a data transfer rate of around 5Mbps. This ensures that the data transmission within the industrial architecture always stays relevant.

The ControlNet Connectors that Help in Industrial Automation

It is important here to note that ControlNet cables are the RG-6 coaxial cable types with the BNC connectors. The connectors of BNC can either comprise of a twist on and locking type. It also sports a rugged design that is of the threaded screw type. This screw threaded design helps you to make sure that it can withstand harsher environments.

The ControlNet Cables That Are Used in the Network

ControlNet provides you the liberty to select the cable types. The cable types comprise of direct burial or flexible nature. Moreover, they are also designed in such a manner that they can be used in harsher environments. On the other hand, there are various applications for ControlNet that need longer distances and also use optical fiber in the cabling. It is important here to note that it can support a maximum number of 99 nodes on the network. Moreover, the repeaters also do not use the node numbers. This is the reason that they don’t count these nodes as a part of the maximum amount.

The ControlNet Data Link Layer

In ControlNet, the nodes are assigned with a MAC ID address 1 to 99. Moreover, each node also knows the address of the predecessor and the successor. Each node that is present in the ControlNet interface has a scheduled time, which is also known as a token. In the ControlNet network, only one node can be transmitted at a time which would eventually prevent the data collisions from taking dangerous propositions.

If ControlNet is set up correctly, it can be very stable and reliable. Moreover, over a longer period, it requires lesser maintenance when compared to other industrial automation networks.