14 Nov 2024 at 00:00 GMT+1
By Fredrik Brynolf
Anybus

HMS Networks expands range of Next-Generation Gateways with Anybus Communicator PROFINET Coupler and EtherNet/IP to EtherNet/IP Adapter

Communicator-couplers-press-release

HMS now launches two Anybus Communicators: the Anybus® Communicator™ PROFINET IO-device – PROFINET IO-device and the Anybus Communicator EtherNet/IP™ adapter – EtherNet/IP™ adapter. These high-performance gateways offer an easy and secure way to interconnect PROFINET control systems or EtherNet/IP control systems 


Secure industrial connectivity 

HMS Networks’ range of Anybus Communicators provides the easiest way to connect devices or machines to industrial networks. Beyond connectivity, Anybus Communicators also enhance network security by segmenting the network. By only forwarding required data to the intended target and blocking unauthorized traffic, the Anybus Communicators provide an added layer of security. This makes Anybus Communicators a valuable addition, even when protocol conversion isn’t required. 

 

PROFINET and EtherNet/IP – expanding networks 

PROFINET and EtherNet/IP are the two largest industrial networks, with global shares of 23% and 21%, respectively. This widespread adoption drives the need for high-performance gateways that securely interconnect PROFINET and EtherNet/IP control systems. The Anybus Communicator PROFINET IO-device to PROFINET IO-device and Anybus Communicator EtherNet/IP adapter to EtherNet/IP adapter meet this need by providing a reliable and efficient solution for seamless network integration. 

 

Next-generation technology  

Like all Anybus next-generation gateways, these Anybus Communicators provide reliable, secure, and user-friendly technology:  


Proven and fast communication using Anybus NP40 technology  

The award-winning Anybus NP40 industrial network processor ensures that the Communicators meet demanding requirements in terms of industrial performance, reliability, and security. Featuring new hardware and software, the gateways enable instant data transfer – up to 10 times faster than their predecessors. Users can also exchange significantly more data between the networks as the gateways transfer up to 1 448 bytes to and from connected PLCs.  


Robust and secure communication  

Built using carefully selected industrial components and verified against the CE and UL industry standards, the gateways are designed to handle harsh industrial environments.  


To protect users from cyberattacks, the gateways have an onboard physical security switch that prevents unauthorized configuration changes and secure boot functionality to resist attacks and infections from malware.  


 Fast installation and intuitive configuration  

Fast installation and smooth configuration procedures are guaranteed thanks to an optimized housing design, an intuitive GUI, and easy-to-understand documentation.  


Installation is simplified thanks to the compact gateway design with forward-facing ports and DIN-rail mounting, which allows gateway installation close to connected devices, reducing the amount of required wiring.  


Users can configure the gateways using drag-and-drop functionality in the web-based GUI, which is accessible via a dedicated Ethernet port on the gateways. In the GUI, users can also monitor network traffic passing through the gateway and diagnose issues before they become problems.  


Hands-on assistance is available, as a QR code in the GUI provides a step-by-step installation and configuration guide. This allows users to access helpful instructions on their phones, even if the local equipment is offline. 


"We are delighted to add the Anybus Communicator PROFINET IO-device to PROFINET IO-device and the EtherNet/IP adapter to EtherNet/IP adapter to our range of next-generation gateways," said Fredrik Brynolf, Anybus Gateway Product Manager at HMS Networks. "These Communicators provide an easy and secure way to interconnect either PROFINET or EtherNet/IP control systems, while boosting security through segmentation." 


Anybus Communicators are available off the shelf as stand-alone ready-to-install units. Users can personalize the Communicators to meet OEM and brand labeling requirements. The gateways can also be pre-configured to be used as tightly integrated communication components of an automation device or a machine.  


Use Case  

The Anybus Communicator PROFINET IO-device – PROFINET IO-device and the Anybus Communicator EtherNet/IP adapter – EtherNet/IP adapter provide a secure and reliable solution for interconnecting PROFINET or EtherNet/IP control systems. 


View products 

Anybus Communicator PROFINET IO-device - PROFINET IO-device

 

Anybus Communicator EtherNet/IP adapter - EtherNet/IP adapter

 

 

About HMS Networks  



HMS Networks AB (publ) is a market-leading provider of solutions in industrial information and communication technology (Industrial ICT). HMS develops and manufactures products under the Anybus®, Ewon®, Intesis®, and Ixxat® brands. Headquartered in Halmstad, Sweden, HMS also has offices in Germany, USA, Japan, China, Singapore, Italy, France, Spain, the Netherlands, India, UK, South Korea, Australia, and UAE, as well as a worldwide network of distributors and partners. HMS employs over 800 people and reported sales of SEK 3,025 million in 2023. HMS is listed on the NASDAQ OMX in Stockholm, category Large Cap, Information Technology.