Recent enhancements to The CIP Networks Library Volume 1 modify requirements for device Electronic Data Sheets (EDS) and for the first time introduce requirements for applications that interpret them. The specification has historically left many features optional to promote EtherNet/IP adoption. In some cases, this led to interoperability issues. In others it created a disincentive for feature adoption due to not knowing if any other products supported a feature. The new requirements are expected to enhance consistency, interoperability, and ease device vendor development efforts by providing a predictable baseline for EDS file support.
This paper presents an overview of these changes, their impact on host applications and EDS files, and the resulting benefits to the EtherNet/IP ecosystem and our end users.
Authors Greg Majcher, Principal Application Engineer, Rockwell Automation Kevin Peters, Senior Software Architect, Rockwell Automation
