Flexible Topoligies
SERCOS III networks have at least one master to maintain control and one slave to execute the automation functions. The devices are configured in a simple, clearly laid out line or ring topology.
Every SERCOS III device has at least 2 Ethernet ports which are connected to the previous and next devices via a CAT5e Ethernet cable. The SERCOS III line or ring topology eliminates the need for expensive network technology such as switches or hubs.
Line topology
All of the SERCOS III devices are connected in a series. The master is located at the start of a line or between two lines. The data passes through the slaves and is looped back by the last device.
All of the users analyze the data that is passing in both directions, and this guarantees that all data reaches each user during one cycle.
- Simple, low-cost device networking over long distances, e.g. assembly or processing lines.
Ring topology
One additional cable can be used to form a SERCOS III ring network – between the last slave and the master for a single line, between the two last slaves for two lines.
The master sends data to the ring in opposite directions from the two ports. The data can thus also be received in both directions in thering.
- The advantage: The ring topology offers the added advantage of redundant cabling, which increases system availability.
- Maximum availability with ring redundancy
Other topologies
SERCOS III also supports hierarchical, cascaded network structures. Single network segments are connected with each other using a ring or line topology.
The advantages:
- Real-time capable, fully synchronized network structures are implemented by coupling network segments.
- The cycle times in the individual segments can vary, e.g. 250 µs to network drives and fast I/Os and 2 ms to network control systems
- Synchronization is assured in the complete network.
