Experimental evaluation of Ethernet IP-Interconnected control systems

The standard TCP/IP/Ethemet protocols are considered not suitable for use in real-time control systems. Ethemet it deals with a lack of time determinism, that characterize fieldbuses. Nevertheless several corporations propose networking based on the TCP/IP/Ethemeteven for control purpose but with some modifications of the standard. This paper examines a possibility of application of the Ethemet TCP/IP communication without modifications for control purposes. Experimental investigations of single feedback control based on the EtherNet/IP (Alle1l-Bradley) and OPC-over-TCP communication between the controller and the plant have been presented. As comparison, standard control over analog channel has been presented. The results show acceptable performance of control via EtherNet/IP networking especially for testing and educational purposes.