What are the Allen Bradley PLC communication protocols?
Allen Bradley PLCs by Rockwell Automation have the flexibility to support a wide range of communication protocols for connectivity with many other devices, controllers, and networks. Some of these most common communication protocols are described below:
EtherNet/IP
Description: This is one of the major industrial Ethernet protocols that support real-time messaging for I/O and message exchange. It utilizes the normal suite of TCP/IP and is appropriate for both plant floor and enterprise-level communications.
Applications: Automation networks and where there is a need for high-speed data transfer and integration with enterprise systems.
ControlNet
Description: This is one type of real-time, deterministic network protocol designed for high-speed data transfer between controllers and I/O devices. It supports both scheduled and unscheduled data exchange.
Applications: Process control areas where synchronized control and data collection are important.
DeviceNet
Definition: A network protocol, using CAN technology, designed for industrial devices like sensors, actuators, and controllers among others.
Applications: Very convenient for low-level devices, for example, sensors and actuators connection within the industrial domain.
DH+ (Data Highway Plus)
Definition: This is a proprietary Allen Bradley protocol used for communication between the PLCs, HMIs, and other devices on the factory floor.
Applications: Used for communication between controllers, HMIs, and other devices in legacy systems.
RS-232/RS-485
Description: Serial communication protocols used for point-to-point or multi-drop communication between PLCs and devices like HMIs, printers, and barcode scanners.
Applications: Typically used for simple, low-speed communication tasks, often in smaller or older systems.
Modbus
Description: A widely used industrial communication protocol that allows for interoperability among devices made by different manufacturers. Allen Bradley PLCs typically also support Modbus RTU over RS-485 and Modbus TCP over Ethernet.
Applications: Used in several automation applications for integrating devices and systems from varied vendors.
DF1
Description: This is a proprietary serial communication protocol used to communicate between Allen Bradley PLCs and other devices.
Applications: Commonly used for programming, monitoring, and peer-to-peer communication between PLCs.
Profibus
It is a form of fieldbus communication protocol applied in linking automation systems such as programmable logic controllers with decentralized peripheral devices.
Where to use: The process and factory automation, integrating devices with Allen Bradley PLCs.
The application of these protocols in the Allen Bradley PLCs allows access to diverse numbers of industrial devices, hence ensuring communications that are efficient and effective across the various systems and networks