Ethernet/IP is an industrial application layer protocol for industrial automation applications. Personal computers, printers, and other peripheral equipment with Ethernet-ready Network Interface Cards have moved into the industrial arena.
The advantages of using Industrial Ethernet are high data rates (up to 100,000 Kbps vs. typical device-level network data rates of 500 Kbps), the capability to connect hundreds to thousands of control devices and freedom in wiring layout.
Ethernet has reigned in the commercial office environment for several years. Control and automation is progressing towards this open, standards-based technology.
The performance level of Automation and Control applications on Ethernet is such that inefficiencies due to errors, congestion, collisions and extraneous traffic must be avoided.