EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology) is an advanced Ethernet fieldbus that offers exceptional performance, flexibility, and cost advantages. Its functional principle—processing data in real-time—allows EtherCAT to achieve the highest speeds available, with cycle times as low as a few microseconds. The nodes in the network can be synchronized with remarkable precision.

Additionally, EtherCAT provides outstanding wiring flexibility, supporting arbitrary network topologies with any number of nodes in a linear arrangement. It is the only hard real-time Industrial Ethernet solution that does not require dedicated hardware, such as a MAC with a communication coprocessor, for the MainDevice. Instead, EtherCAT can be implemented in software on any Ethernet controller. The EtherCAT SubDevice Controller (ESC) chips are also affordable, and switches are not necessary, which results in cost savings for controllers, devices, and infrastructure—especially when compared to traditional fieldbus systems.

Furthermore, EtherCAT maintains full compatibility with all Internet technologies, enabling vertical integration within mixed networks.

Register now to learn more about EtherCAT and the challenges of Industrial Ethernet, particularly relating to cyber resilience.

Why EtherCAT?

• it's Industrial Ethernet
• it's faster
• it's cost effective
• it's easy to use
• it's flexible topology
• it's Safety on Ethernet
• it's open and future proof
• it's well proven
• it's versatile

Watch the unique functional principle "on the fly" of EtherCAT: