Rheonics Support

The purpose of this article is to explain which hardware and configuration are essential for a successful Ethernet/IP implementation.  

1. When I order the sensor, have I already purchased Ethernet/IP?

No, you will need to order the Ethernet/IP communication protocol prior to the shipment of the sensor. To order the Ethernet/IP communication protocol remember to check the C7-Ethernet/IP option in the RFQ page. Ethernet/IP is available on all Rheonics standard viscometers and density meters that use SME electronics. The video below shows the steps to be followed to add Ethernet/IP to the device configuration:

2. Can I order Ethernet/IP after a sensor is shipped?

Yes, communication protocols like Ethernet/IP can be ordered later. Contact Rheonics sales to order.

3. Cabling

When Ethernet/IP protocol is enabled on Rheonics Sensors, full duplex communication at 100 Mbps is possible. Ethernet cables that comply with the Ethernet/IP protocol, such as standard ethernet cables or ruggedized ethernet cables, are valid for use in factory automation with physical layers based on 4/2/1-pair Ethernet.  

Cabling options:

• Standard Ethernet cable options with Cat 5, 5e, Cat 6, 6a, or Cat 7 cables, would meet the requirements based on the achievable speed of 100Mbps in 100 meters, still, specifications must be verified by the integrator.

• Industrial Ethernet cable: Ruggedized Ethernet cables, built for the factory floor.

4. EDS File

Rheonics provides an “EDS file” file that can be used with the different sensor types which are Ethernet/IP compatible. The EDS file is a text file that contains configuration data for specific device types, it describes how a device can be used on an EtherNet/IP network. An EDS file conveys the identity information needed for a network tool to recognize a device. For EtherNet/IP scanners, the EDS file contains information about the EtherNet/IP adapter's I/O messages. It describes the input message produced by the EtherNet/IP adapter and the output message consumed by the adapter. Download our EDS file based on the sensor type that you have selected here: https://support.rheonics.com/en/support/solutions/articles/81000393236-ethernetip-eds-file-for-rheonics-inline-viscometer-and-density-meter 

Figure 4. Overview of Rheonics device.

The EDS file selected must always match the sensor type that is under use.

5. Addressing Ethernet/IP networks

Ethernet/IP Devices use a combination of Media Access Control (MAC) addressing and Internet Protocol (IP) addressing for network addressing. Each device must have a unique MAC address and IP address to be identified on the network. The purpose of this combination is to enable Ethernet/IP devices to communicate with each other and the Ethernet/IP controllers.

Rheonics Ethernet/IP devices settings must be set as follows:

References

1. https://www.omnicable.com/products/bel187923a/ 

2. https://www.walmart.ca/en/ip/Cat-6-Ethernet-Cable-5ft-Flat-Internet-Network-Cord-Cat6-Ethernet-Patch-Cable-Short-Black-Computer-Cable/PRD5I9LHF8V3IDH 

3. https://www.milestek.com/ip68-ruggedized-cat6-cable-plug-to-jack-e-nickel-finish-24awg-str-cm-cmx-fr-tpe-blk-w-dust-caps-0-5m 

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