In addition to BACnet/IP, Beckhoff now also supports BACnet MS/TP (Master Slave/Token Passing) with the EL6861 EtherCAT Terminal. This serial interface can be used directly to control and monitor BACnet-compatible field devices, such as pumps, drives, frequency converters or similar, as sub-bus systems, without the need for additional gateways or routers. Up to 64 devices with RS-485 low power transceivers can be connected.
In addition, several terminals can be operated in parallel to scale the number of MS/TP channels that can be supported.
Using the 1-channel BACnet MS/TP interface, hardware and engineering costs can be significantly reduced since configuration is performed centrally in the TwinCAT System Manager and external devices, such as routers or gateways, do not need to be connected. Combined with the BACnet MS/TP driver integrated within TwinCAT automation software, the terminal implements the BACnet protocol in compliance with Revision 12. The terminal can also be used locally without routing to the BACnet/IP network.
The RS-485 interface guarantees high interference immunity through electrically isolated signal transmission. The EL6861 provides 1 x 5 VDC at 20 mA (electrically isolated, short-circuit-proof) from the E-bus supply for use with the bias resistors (network bias).
Integrating fire alarm systems into building management systems Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Fire alarm systems work independently of the building automation system. Schrack Seconet has developed a flexible gateway using ultra-compact industrial PCs and TwinCAT from Beckhoff, which can be used to flexibly convert a customer-specific communication protocol to a wide range of transmission standards.
Read more...Hybrid DCS for an evolving industrial landscape Schneider Electric South Africa
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Today’s industrial automation continues to evolve at a blistering speed, which means traditional DCSs have to keep up to ensure continuous integration into modern, digital infrastructure.
Read more...PC-based control regulates innovative dehumidifiers Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Swedish company, Airwatergreen is breaking new ground in the dehumidification of air in industrial buildings and warehouses. The patented CVP technology reduces energy requirements and ensures an indoor climate that prevents corrosion and mould growth. PC-based control from Beckhoff regulates this innovative process.
Read more...PC-based control in window and door production Beckhoff Automation
Motion Control & Drives
Belgian machine builders CNC Solutions and Calvet are automating previously manual processes in aluminium window and door production. High-performance drive technology, motion control and electric cylinders from Beckhoff proved crucial in equipping the machine with the necessary finesse when pressing the window frames.
Read more...PC-based control for advanced hydrogen storage technology Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Sufficient storage options for renewable energies are essential to use them as efficiently as possible. GKN Hydrogen offers a particularly compact and safe option, low-pressure metal hydride hydrogen storage systems with PC-based control from Beckhoff.
Read more...Prestigious award recognises inventiveness and entrepreneurial courage Beckhoff Automation
News
Hans Beckhoff, managing director, owner and founder of Beckhoff Automation, was recently honoured with the widely acclaimed Rudolf Diesel Medal 2025. This medal honours him as a visionary pioneer in automation technology.
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