The EtherNet/IP driver provides a LabVIEW-based interface to directly communicate over the network with compatible EtherNet/IP devices such as Allen-Bradley/Rockwell PLCs. The driver provides mechanisms for both explicit messaging (in several formats) and I/O data communication. This allows communication and data sharing with a very wide range of PLCs and EtherNet/IP devices in use today.

Explicit Messaging

The VIs on this palette use explicit messaging connections to read from or write  to a target.

Tag Read/Write and SLC500 Read/Write allow direct access into data fields stored on a PLC. The target must support Messaging class communications using either  Logix tag names or PCCC communication to register files. Supported targets of these message formats include PLCs such as  Rockwell's SLC 500, MicroLogix, ControlLogix and CompactLogix series.

The Get/Set Attribute Single VIs let you interact directly with individual instances of objects in the CIP object model on an EtherNet/IP device. While some classes of objects are standardized, others are device-specific. You should consult the manual of your device to determine the class, instance, and attributes you need to control your device.

I/O Data

The VIs on this palette allow the LabVIEW system to create an I/O assembly and  function as an adapter for a remote PLC. This type of communication is referred  to as Class 1 or I/O server communication. The device appears as remote I/O to the PLC and can be addressed within ladder logic as though it were local I/O. Class 1 communication allows the PLC  to establish an implicit I/O data connection with the LabVIEW system and  repeatedly exchange assembly data at a specific rate. Assemblies are treated as shared memory that is used to produce or consume data to/from the PLC. The data is exchanged asynchronously in the background.

Requirements

The driver is supported in LabVIEW running on Windows as well as LabVIEW Real-Time systems. Supported systems include:

• Desktop PCs
• PXI Controllers
• CompactRIO
• Compact Fieldpoint
• NI Smart Cameras
• Compact Vision System
• Embedded Vision System
• NI Industrial Controller

Note: When running on a real-time controller you must install the driver component to your target first via the Add/Remote Software tab in Measurement and Automation Explorer.

Download the attachment below and let us know what you think. We'd love to get  your feedback!

Below version: 1.0.4 - Last Updated Sept 24th, 2009