Datasheet

Ethernet Powerlink
Powerlink is a real time ethernet protocol. Proview implements the openPOWERLINK-V1.08.2
stack through Linux userspace, the stack is pre-compiled with Proview. This make the
implementation very flexible as you can use any ethernet NIC. There is no need for special
hardware to achieve hard-real time performance. A Powerlink network consists of two device-types.
A MN (MN = Managing Node) and one or several CN (Controlled Node), max 239 CNs. Proview
can act as both a CN and a MN but not at the same time. When creating a Powerlink network you
need a configuration file, this file can be generated using openCONFIGURATOR
(http://sourceforge.net/projects/openconf/), the file is used by the MN Powerlink stack to configure
the MN and CNs. When buying a Powerlink CN you will be provided a node specific configuration
file with the xdd/xdc extension, this file is imported to your openCONFIGURATOR project.
What Powerlink does
Powerlink expands the Ethernet standard with a mixed polling and timeslicing mechanism. This
enables:
• Guaranteed transfer of time-critical data in very short isochronic cycles with configurable
response time.
• Time-synchronization of all nodes in the network with very high precision of sub-
microseconds.
• Transmission of less time-critical data in a reserved asynchronous channel.
Main features
One of Powerlink's key characteristics is that nodes on the network can communicate via cross-
traffic, which works similar to the broadcast principle: all nodes on the network can receive data
that any one sender among them supplies to the network. This way of communication does not
require data to pass through the Master.
Powerlink supports all kinds of network topologies, star, tree, ring, or daisy chain, and any
combination of them.
Hot plugging capabilities, easily accessible system diagnostics, and easy integration with CANopen
are other features of Powerlink.
Powelink facts
Network Type: Scalable Ethernet-based advanced communication system.
Topology: Very flexible with line, bus, star or tree topology.
Installation: Hub based Ethernet transmission with shielded twisted pair cables and RJ45
connectors.
Data Rate: 100 Mbit/s (gigabit ready)
Max number of stations: 240 including the master.
Data: Each node: up to 1490 bytes per telegram frame. Total: theoretically 1490x239 bytes.
Network features: Combines the Ethernet standard with CANopen technology, plus special
features developed by the ESPG.