In the past, one of the major challenges for Ethernet to enter the fieldbus system was its inherent uncertainty. This stemmed from the fact that Ethernet uses the CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection) protocol at the data link layer. While this protocol is highly efficient under light network loads, it becomes problematic under heavy traffic. In such cases, Ethernet devices would wait for a random time before retransmitting after a collision, which introduced unpredictable delays. This lack of determinism made Ethernet unsuitable for industrial control systems where real-time performance is essential. Additionally, traditional Ethernet components—such as connectors, hubs, switches, and cables—were designed for office environments rather than the harsh conditions found in industrial settings. They lacked proper anti-jamming capabilities, intrinsic safety features, and the ability to power field instruments directly.
However, with technological advancements, these limitations have been largely overcome. Today, 100M Ethernet has become the standard, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet is already in practical use. The development of switched Ethernet technology has significantly reduced the issue of transmission time randomness caused by collisions. Moreover, Ethernet equipment manufacturers are now producing industrial-grade hardware that can withstand tough environmental conditions. These improvements have made Ethernet a viable option for industrial communication networks.
Ethernet also offers several key advantages that make it attractive for industrial applications:
1. **Widespread Adoption and Support**: Ethernet is the most widely used computer networking technology, supported by almost all programming languages, including Java, C++, and Visual Basic. This broad support ensures a rich ecosystem of tools and development environments, making it easier to implement and maintain.
2. **Cost-Effective**: Due to its widespread use, Ethernet hardware is highly competitive in price. Network cards, for example, cost about one-tenth of those used in fieldbus technologies like Profibus or FF. As integrated circuit technology continues to advance, these costs are expected to decrease further.
3. **High Communication Speed**: Current Fast Ethernet (100M) is already widely deployed, while Gigabit Ethernet is becoming more common. Even 10 Gigabit Ethernet is now in operation, offering speeds far beyond those of traditional fieldbus systems. This makes Ethernet ideal for high-bandwidth applications.
4. **Abundant Hardware and Software Resources**: With years of deployment, there is a wealth of experience and knowledge in Ethernet design and application. A large amount of software and technical documentation is available, reducing development and training costs and accelerating system deployment.
5. **Strong Potential for Future Development**: Ethernet's broad adoption has led to significant investment in its development. In an era where fast and reliable communication is critical, Ethernet's continued evolution ensures long-term sustainability. It will keep pace with advances in information and communication technologies, maintaining its relevance in industrial control systems.
By adopting Ethernet as the communication platform for field devices, the industrial control field can avoid being isolated from mainstream computer network technology. This integration allows fieldbus systems to evolve alongside other network technologies, promoting mutual growth and ensuring technical continuity without the need for separate research and development efforts. In the future, industrial control networks will likely follow the trend shown in Figure 4.1.
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