EtherCAT was presented for the first time at Hannover Messe 2003 and has since become an established standard in numerous industries worldwide. Meanwhile, the international user and manufacturer association for EtherCAT, the EtherCAT Technology Group, has more than 2300 members that support and disseminate EtherCAT technology and drive future developments. Martin Rostan, head of technology marketing at Beckhoff, looks back on the early days of the ‘Fast Lightbus’.
EtherCAT is basically Lightbus technology adapted to Ethernet. Lightbus, the first Beckhoff fieldbus, was launched in 1989 and already derived its then exceptional performance from the ‘processing on-the-fly’ concept that EtherCAT also utilises. The working title of the project from which EtherCAT later emerged, was Fast Lightbus. It is the unique operating principle that makes EtherCAT special: fast, flexible, easy to use, cost-effective, compelling, and therefore successful.
“The presentation of this pioneering communication technology at Hannover Messe 2003 was a highlight in the company history of Beckhoff: virtually the whole industry visited its booth and was amazed – many even congratulated us,” says Rostan. “Right from the outset we announced our intention to develop the technology into an open standard. The foundation of the EtherCAT Technology Group and publishing the specification as a global IEC standard were important milestones that Beckhoff is celebrating 10 years later in 2013.”
Read more...Experience ICRA 2026 right here in Gqeberha, South Africa
News
The IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) is the largest robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing conference in the world. You can experience the premier keynote and plenary presentations in Gqeberha.
Read more...A single platform for all automation functions Beckhoff Automation
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The introduction of TwinCAT in 1996 marked a decisive evolutionary step for PC-based control. Today, the TwinCAT platform combines all automation functions in a strictly deterministic real-time environment, from PLC and motion control through CNC and measurement technology and beyond, to vision, robotics and pioneering AI tools.
Read more...Elevating artisanal skills is key to revitalising South Africa’s economy ACTOM Electrical Machines
News
We need to challenge the stigma attached to artisanal and technical careers, and we also need a mindset shift supported by the schooling system so that young people understand future career pathways, choose subjects accordingly, and recognise that artisanal and technical skills carry equal value in a modern economy.
Read more...From the editor's desk: A little bit of magic Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control)
News
Whatever your view is of America today, the Artemis II mission showed the world that it can still deliver moments of wonder. For a few days, the chaotic headlines gave way to something more. Who could ...
Read more...Woman of Stature Awards South Africa
News
In a powerful recognition of excellence in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Thabisile Phumo won the Woman in Mining and Engineering award at the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version