SUMMARY

• Networks come in a variety of topologies, but buses are most common on factory floors.

• The OSI model can help when describing network related hardware and software.

• Networks can be connected with a variety of routers, bridges, gateways, etc.

• Devicenet is designed for interfacing to a few inputs and outputs.

• Controlnet is designed for interfacing between controllers.

• Controlnet and devicenet are based on CANbus.

• Ethernet is common, and can be used for high speed communication.

• Profibus is another control network.