This EtherCAT multifieldbus interface (MFI) enables customers to connect KEB’s multi-axis controller with an existing whole-machine PLC solution without abandoning existing fieldbus integrations. For example, users can choose to develop a machine accessory using the EtherCAT-based controllers and I/O modules and then connect it to an existing machine, using only one module. The MFI is an EtherCAT slave device that provides a gateway connection to a second fieldbus interface. It is available as an EtherNet/IP adapter, a Profinet I/O device and a Powerlink slave. The interface allows users to join two fieldbus networks and exchange up to 300 bytes of data (per scan).
