Mastering EtherCAT Configuration Techniques

 1. What is the maximum data length for the EtherCAT communication variable list, specifically for Inputs and Outputs?

This depends on the IO configuration. The EtherCAT network can support up to over 60,000 slave devices, and each module may have varying numbers of outputs and inputs.

2. How can I use EtherCAT communication to read the status of a servo motor and display it on the HMI

You can create a uint variable in your PLC program and bind it to the relevant parameters of the servo motor. Then, display this variable on the HMI interface.


3.     How do I modify the sync unit cycle in DC synchronization?

 

1.Create a new task.

 



2. Use the synchronization unit grouping function to assign tasks to the modules that need modification.



3. Verify the modification results in the module's EtherCAT → advance setting.




Note that when increasing the cycle for an oversampling module, it is essential to confirm its capability to complete the analog-to-digital conversion within that cycle.

For instance, the EL3702 has a single data conversion time of approximately 10us. If you aim to refresh 100 sampling data points during a single synchronized data acquisition, the calculation is 10us * 100 = 1000us, indicating that the synchronization cycle must be set to 1000us or above.

 

4 How to obtain the EtherCAT timestamp, specifically the DC System Time (DCsystime), which represents the DC synchronization clock (64 bits)?




It is mandatory to have at least one module that supports DC functionality, such as the AX5000 series drive or a module like EL1259, otherwise, this tab will not be available.

 

5. Can variables in EtherCAT communication be of the struct type?

Yes, variables can be of the struct type.

6. How to restore the COE parameters of EL/EP series modules to their initial settings or factory defaults?64616F6C

Writing 0x64616F6C to directory 1011:01 will suffice.






What should I do if the module cannot enter OP mode?

The ammeter reads 5mA, but why does the EL3124 still display the maximum value of 32768? It's a four-wire sensor, and I've confirmed that the sensor is functioning properly. The sensor and power supply are connected to the 3124, and I've also verified the current using a multimeter; everything seems fine. The range is set to 4-20mA.

Please try the wiring configuration shown in the diagram below and test it again. If the issue persists, try resetting the module to its factory defaults by assigning 64616F6C to 1011:01.

 



7.     Introduction to CU2508 Usage

 

I.How to Use CU2508?

 

https://infosys.beckhoff.com/content/1033/cu2508/2129822219.html?id=4940984535521765770

 

II. Can the CU2508 replace the functionality of the CU2208 and provide real-time communication with enhanced capabilities?

These two are not products with identical functions and cannot be substituted for each other.




First, manually add the Real-Time Ethernet Adapter




Adapter selection for connecting to the network interface card of the CU2508




In the Ports settings, change the Virtual Port Count to 8, set the TCPIP Port to via EoE, and modify the Virtual Port Selection via to EtherCAT Switch Link Protocol (ESL).




Then you can proceed to add the EtherCAT network.




Select the port on the CU2508 for the Adapter, then activate the configuration to make it effective. After activation is complete, switch to configuration mode to scan for slaves connected to the CU2508.




8. What are the considerations when manually adding EtherCAT devices?

When manually adding EtherCAT devices, attention should be paid to the "previous port" option. In the following image, the EtherCAT drive is by default connected to the second network port of the EK1100. However, if the drive is actually connected to the expansion port of the EK1110, this will result in an activation error.




9 How does the industrial PC equipped with an EtherCAT board interact with the EtherCAT slave port information on CX5130?

It can be directly scanned like any other standard EtherCAT slave.

Please refer to the following document for detailed configuration steps.

https://download.beckhoff.com/download/document/ipc/embedded-pc/embedded-pc-cx/ethercat_optioninterface_en.pdf

10. Declaration and Binding of Internal Variable Types for High-Function Modules in EL (Global Data Type, Type System, External Types)

For the internal variables used in EL high-function modules, there is a convenient feature introduced in TC3 version 4024 and later, specifically for analog and gateway modules (not supported for regular I/O modules).

 

11. What are the benefits for customers when all Beckhoff controllers utilize the same IO system?

 

  1. It facilitates controller upgrades, resulting in cost savings.
  2. Spare parts management becomes more straightforward.
  3. Users can easily grasp and categorize the usage, enhancing usability.
  4. Replacement is convenient, facilitating later system maintenance.