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Communication Protocols

Communication Protocols

Communication Protocols
TermDefinition
Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)A network protocol used to map an IP address to a physical MAC address within a local network.
Building Automation and Control Network (BACnet)A communication protocol specifically designed for building automation systems, enabling devices such as HVAC, lighting, and fire systems to interoperate.
Baud RateThe number of signal or symbol changes (modulation events) per second in a communication channel.
Commonly used in serial communication to define data transmission speed.
CIMON-PLC HMIThe Human-Machine Interface designed by CIMON for communication and monitoring of PLC systems, enabling real-time interaction between the operator and the control system.
Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA)A digital cellular network protocol that allows multiple users to share the same frequency band by using unique codes for each user.
Controller Area Network (CAN)A robust serial communication protocol designed for real-time data exchange between micro-controllers and devices in industrial and automotive systems.
Crossover CableA type of Ethernet cable used to directly connect two network devices, such as two computers, without requiring a switch or hub.
DeviceNetAn industrial protocol for networking devices such as sensors and actuators, based on the CAN (Controller Area Network) standard.
Allows for real-time data sharing.
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)A network management protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to devices on a network.
Ethernet for Control Automation Technology (EtherCAT)A high-performance industrial Ethernet protocol designed for real-time control applications, known for its low latency and precise synchronization.
EthernetA standard for wired local area networks (LANs) that provides a framework for devices to communicate over a network using MAC addresses.
GatewayA network device or software that acts as a bridge, enabling communication and data transfer between two different networks or protocols.
High-Speed PLC LinkA CIMON-specific communication protocol designed for fast and efficient data exchange between CIMON PLC devices.
Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP)A network layer protocol used for error reporting and diagnostics, such as in the ping utility to test connectivity.
Internet Protocol (IP)The primary protocol for routing data across networks in the form of packets. It is used in conjunction with protocols like TCP and UDP.
Leased LineDedicated communication lines provided by a telecom service for constant, private, and reliable connectivity between two locations.
Leased Line ModemA modem used with leased lines, which are dedicated communication lines provided by telecom companies for constant connectivity between locations.
LoaderA software utility or hardware device used to upload and download programs or configurations to/from a PLC or other devices.
Master (Client)A device or system in a communication network that initiates and controls data exchanges with subordinate devices.
Media Access Control (MAC)A unique hardware address assigned to a network interface for device identification in a local network.
Modbus Remote Terminal Unit (Modbus RTU)A serial communication protocol commonly used in industrial automation, employing a binary data format for communication.
Modbus Transmission Control Protocol (Modbus TCP)An Ethernet-based implementation of the Modbus protocol, allowing communication between devices over IP networks.
ModemA device that converts digital signals to analog for transmission over communication lines and vice versa, enabling data transfer between networks.
Network Interface Card (NIC)A hardware component enabling a device to connect to a network, either wired or wireless.
Null ModemA type of serial cable or adapter used to connect two devices directly without a modem, reversing certain pins for proper signal flow.
Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA)A platform-independent communication protocol used for secure and reliable exchange of data in industrial automation, supporting interoperability between devices and systems.
Process Field Bus (Profibus)An industrial network protocol used for high-speed communication between automation systems, sensors, and actuators.
PLC LinkA communication method to interconnect multiple PLC devices for data exchange and synchronization.
Recommended Standard (RS)A series of standardized protocols for serial communication, developed by the EIA (Electronic Industries Alliance), defining specifications for data transmission over physical media.
RS-232A standard for serial communication that uses simple wiring and low data transfer rates, typically for short-distance communication.
RS-422A serial communication standard that supports higher data transfer rates and longer distances compared to RS-232, using differential signaling.
RS-485A serial communication standard allowing multiple devices to share the same communication bus over long distances using differential signaling.
SerialA communication method where data is transmitted sequentially, bit by bit, over a single channel or wire.
Slave (Server)A subordinate device in a communication network that responds to commands or requests initiated by the master.
Straight-through CableAn Ethernet cable used to connect devices of different types, such as a computer to a network switch or router.
Subnet MaskA value used in IP networking to divide an IP address into network and host portions, enabling subnetting.
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)A core internet protocol providing reliable, ordered, and error-checked delivery of data between applications over a network.
Twisted PairA type of cabling where two conductors are twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference, commonly used in Ethernet cables.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)A common type of twisted pair cable used in networking, without additional shielding to prevent interference.
UserA custom communication protocol defined by the user to enable data exchange between a device and third-party systems, tailored to specific application requirements.
User Datagram Protocol (UDP)A communication protocol providing fast but unreliable data delivery, used in applications where speed is critical, such as streaming.