Understanding network protocols
A network protocol can be referred to as a method of data communication between two or more devices on a network. It is a set of rules that should be adhered to for communication to occur between two or more connected devices. Industrial network protocols enable communication between industrial network devices such as PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, PCs, transmitters, actuators, and more. This protocol encompasses the network topology, network media, network connectors, and more.
Many protocols are used around the world for communication. We will focus on industrial network protocols in this book.
Common industrial network protocols can be grouped as wired and wireless networks.
Wired network protocols
Wired network protocols can be grouped into two areas, as follows:
- Fieldbus: Fieldbus is a group of industrial network protocols used for real-time distributed control, standardized as IEC 61158. One great advantage of the Fieldbus protocol is that...