Specifications

IEEE 802.3 Ethernet Communication

ADDvantage-32 PLUS

8-31

8.9.4 Interconnect Issues and Notes

1) All devices should be connected via a Switch; the use of hubs is not recommended. For

more information on Switches vs. hubs, refer to RFC 0970, “On packet Switches with

infinite storage.” A non-managed Switch may be used if cost is the only issue, but the

management and diagnostic capabilities of a managed Switch make the additional cost a

good investment to ensure a dependable network.

2) The Switch port connected to an ADD-32 PLUS drive should be set to 100mb, full-

duplex for best performance.

3) All Avtron supported protocols may be used separately or together in one system,

keeping in mind not to exceed 700 frames per second. Note that TCP/IP protocols use

twice the frames of UDP protocols.

4) The maximum data refresh rate at the drive is 8.33 mSec. In most cases, read/write

repetition rates should be expressed in multiples of 10 mSec, ie: 10, 20, 50, etc.

8.9.5 Avtron Supported Protocols

The following is a short overview of each of the implemented protocols. A more complete

explanation of their use and programming is included in the application notes.

8.9.5.1 Ethernet Communications Using EGD Protocol (GE-Fanuc’s Ethernet Global Data)

(GE-EGD)

The Ethernet Global Data (EGD) protocol is a protocol invented by GE-Fanuc. It may be used

to connect ADD-32 PLUS drives to GE-Fanuc PLCs and other EGD compliant hardware. This

protocol is an unsolicited UDP message format. Instead of a “Server” or “Client”, a node on

the network can be a Producer or a Consumer. The data passed between nodes on the network

are passed as lists known as Exchanges. The configuration of how these lists are produced and

consumed is discussed in Appendix F. The Avtron ADD-32 PLUS drives are configured using

Avtron’s EGDConfig program, Avtron P/N 683247. The internal data structure of the drive as

data is passed from the drive’s data tables is illustrated in Figure 8.9.5.1.

NOTE

Additional information on using EGD protocol is provided in Appendix F.