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Internet and Network Connection

Powerlink uses standard Ethernet infrastructure and physics, Hubs, CAT5e STP cabling, Phy’s and MAC’s. Powerlink gateways(routers) provide a means of networking a Powerlink system to higher IT network infrastructures with integrated firewall and NAT services your IT specialists will be familiar with. This common infrastructure and networking form a complete integration from office to factory floor and control level referred to as Total Network Visibility.

Network Addressing

The node address of any Powerlink device is set using two rotary hexadecimal switches for ease of installation. These node ID’s are used for communications between devices with Powerlink. In addition, IP addresses are automatically generated form the Powerlink device address. This allows the devices to be addressed form outside the Powerlink protected network. Network Address Translation (NAT) is built into the Powerlink gateway/router devices allowing your IT technicians to make these devices available on your network for monitoring, control and even remote support form outside your organisation.

Secure by Design

Powerlink is designed to operate as a protected network segment. Connection to other networks is done via a EPL router/gateway. Similar to traditional routers, but with the behaviour of a Powerlink device on one side and standard Ethernet router on the other side. This acts as a mediator and also a security barrier between the open and non-deterministic Ethernet and the deterministic Powerlink network This EPL router integrates Firewall technologies preventing unauthorised access, maintaining network security and keeping out hackers.