April 26, 2010 - HMS Industrial Networks announced a 2-port EtherNet/IP communication module with integrated switch. The 2-port version allows EtherNet/IP real-time communication with bus or ring topologies. The module provides an easy way for any kind of automation device with an integrated Anybus-CC slot, to connect to any PLC with EtherNet/IP support and eliminates the need for expensive external switches. In addition to the EtherNet/IP protocol, the module provides a full featured TCP/UDP-IP socket interface which can be used to implement specific application protocols such as Modbus-TCP.Another key feature of this module is the added support for the DLR (Device Level Ring) network protocol.
DLR technology adds device-level network resilience to optimize machine operation. When DLR detects a break in the ring, it provides alternate routing of the data to recover the network. In addition, the module also includes industrial IT functions such as an embedded web server an FTP server and an E-mail client.The Anybus-CC module comes in a handy housing with a size similar to a compact flash card. The core of the module is HMS´s NP30 microprocessor with its integrated fast Ethernet controller and RAM and Flash memories for the EtherNet/IP device software stack.
The onboard 2-port switch provides two 100 Mbit/s full duplex Ethernet interfaces with RJ45 connectors. All members of the Anybus-CC family are interchangeable and offer device manufacturers a simple and efficient way to connect intelligent automation devices to all major fieldbus and industrial Ethernet networks with just one development. HMS Industrial Networks is the leading independent supplier of embedded network technology for automation devices. HMS develops and manufactures solutions for interfacing automation devices and systems to industrial networks. Development and manufacturing takes place at the headquarters in Halmstad, Sweden.
Local sales and support is handled by the branch offices in China, USA, Germany, Italy, France, UK and Japan. HMS employs 165 people and reported sales of €23 million in 2009. HMS is listed on the NASDAQ OMX Nordic Exchange in Stockholm in the category small Cap, Information Technology: ISIN SE0002136242.