Softing releases PROFINET IRT

April 10, 2013 – Softing released PROFINET IRT protocol stacks for devices. The version incorporates the basic functionality needed for PROFINET IRT (Isochronous Real Time). The major advantage of the software is that it does not require any protocol specific ASIC to achieve the stringent timing requirements of the IRT. The protocol software is designed to support FPGA technology from Altera and Xilinx. The protocol software includes basic PROFINET IRT functionality  to allow synchronization based on the Precision Time Control Protocol (PTCP) and the fast forwarding of messages based on its address information. The achievable cycle time of 250μs underlines the excellent performance while executing the protocol software on a FPGA platform. Softing will implement  the full IRT functionality for its PROFINET solution by the end of 2013. This timeline will ensure that Softing's solution is fully interoperable with the new line of Siemens controllers and devices. Softing offers Evaluation Kits that are designed to support device vendors that need to get familiar with this technology. The Evaluation Kit includes all necessary IP cores and pre-configured communication boards to quickly start the evaluation process.  In addition, demo code, sample programs for Siemens and Phoenix Contact controllers, and comprehensive documentation is included with the Evaluation Kit. If needed, Softing's team of communication experts is available for development assistance. About Softing In industrial automation, Softing is a specialist for fieldbus technology and has established itself as a world-leading partner for networking automation systems and control solutions. Softing provides customers the key technology to connect devices, controls, and systems with the leading communication technologies. In fieldbus technology, Softing is a world-class expert for FOUNDATION fieldbus, PROFIBUS, and CAN/CANopen/DeviceNet. The company’s wide range of expertise includes solutions for OPC, FDT, and Real-Time-Ethernet protocols such as, PROFINET IO, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus/TCP. Many of the products and services developed by Softing since the company was founded in 1979 have become reference standards throughout the world. In addition, Softing has established itself as a provider of sophisticated diagnostic tools for fieldbus systems.

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