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ControlNet Network

ControlNet Network

The ControlNet™ network is an open control network that meets the demands of real-time, high-throughput applications. ControlNet supports controller to controller interlocking and real-time control of I/O, drives and valves. It also provides control networking in discrete and process applications including high-availability applications.

Features

  • Programming, processor-to-processor interlocking, and I/O control on the same link without impacting time-critical I/O
  • Media options to fit your application needs, including copper, fiber, fiber ring, media redundancy, and intrinsically-safe
  • Supports a maximum of 99 nodes, with no minimum distance between nodes
  • Network access from any node for controller programming and troubleshooting
  • Improved network efficiency with multicast of inputs and peer-to-peer data
  • Network option for ControlLogix® Redundancy

Evaluating ControlNet: Is this the Network for You?

Answer the questions in the three steps below to determine if ControlNet is the right choice for your application.

Step 1: What will you use the network technology to do?

ControlNet is especially suited for these types of applications:

  • Network option for ControlLogix platform (you can also use EtherNet/IP™)
  • Replacement for the Universal Remote I/O (RIO) network
  • Backbone to multiple distributed DeviceNet™ networks
  • Controller-to-controller (peer-to-peer) messaging and interlocking
  • Data collection
  • High-speed I/O network
  • Device configuration

Installation options include:

  • Fiber media for optical isolation from noise and distances up to 20 km (12.43 miles)
  • Fiber ring option for additional topology flexibility
  • Redundant media option to help ensure that a system can maintain operation during a cable fault condition
  • Intrinsic safety option that lets you install a ControlNet network in hazardous, explosive locations
  • Adheres to IP67 installation standards

Step 2. Will your devices connect to ControlNet?

Be sure your automation devices connect to ControlNet.

Step 3. Does the technology fit your applications?

Compare the topology, capacity, and performance capabilities of ControlNet to ensure it is right for your applications.

CapabilityDescription
Topology
  • Trunkline, dropline
  • Star
  • Tree
  • Ring
Capacity
  • Each ControlNet network supports up to 99 nodes
  • Use repeaters to add more nodes
  • Some Allen-Bradley® controllers support multiple ControlNet networks
Connections
  • Scheduled or unscheduled
  • You indirectly determine the number of connections the controller uses by configuring the controller to communicate with other devices in the system
Distances
  • Maximum distance depends on the number of nodes on the network
  • Use repeaters to gain more distance

Learn More

See the NetLinx Networks Selection Guide [PDF] for more information on selecting a network.

Let our Network & Security Services specialists help you plan, design, implement, and maintain your network to achieve your production and business goals.

ControlNet Connected Products

We offer a wide variety of ControlNet products for your applications. Products have either a built-in ControlNet interface, or connect to the ControlNet network via an optional communication interface module. We continue to support your real-time, high-throughput applications.

ControlNet Network Media

ControlNet Network Media and connection devices provide flexibility when designing your network. ControlNet coax cable is a low-loss, RG-6 quad-shield coaxial cable for typical installations. ControlNet fiber media lets you extend a segment of your network, provides immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI), and allows installation in a hazardous location. We also offer a variety of connectors, taps, terminators, repeaters, and tools for coax and fiber systems. Choose the media type based on the application and environment where your system is being installed.

Encompass Partner Products with ControlNet Connectivity

Through the Encompass™ program, our third-party product-referencing program, you can quickly locate the products that best solve your application challenges. Use the Encompass search tool to sort and filter products from best-in-industry suppliers in your region to connect to the Rockwell Automation® architecture, or to use with our products.

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