Communication Standard

A Communication Standard is a predefined set of rules and standards for consistent and compatible data exchange between devices, networks, or systems.

What Is a Communication Standard?

A communication standard is a protocol that dictates the exchange of information between devices, systems, and networks. It outlines the rules that govern the transference of data, including the format, timing, and nature of the data shared. 

In a factory setting, having a clear and widely adopted communication standard is vital. It enables interoperability, reduces downtime, and ensures the compatibility of a diverse range of industrial equipment.

Examples of Industrial Communication Standards

The most common industrial communication standards are:
MTConnect: An open, royalty-free standard designed to facilitate the easy retrieval of process information from numerically controlled machines. It enables greater interoperability and data sharing across manufacturing equipment.

OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture): A platform-independent, service-oriented architecture that integrates all the functionality of the individual OPC Classic specifications into one extensible framework. It enhances secure, reliable, and complex data exchange between devices in industrial automation.

Ethernet/IP: An industrial network protocol that uses traditional Ethernet technologies for control and information data exchange among devices in industrial environments. It ensures real-time performance and seamless communication.

Modbus: A communication protocol developed for industrial applications. It enables the transmission of data over various types of networks and media by defining a simple and robust message structure.

LSV/2 (Laboratory Sample Voting/Version 2): A specialized communication protocol used primarily in laboratory automation for the exchange and management of data between computerized laboratory instruments and systems. It facilitates standardized data collection and analysis.

IO-Link: An open standard serial communication protocol used to connect sensors and actuators to an automation system, providing detailed device diagnostics and enabling easy integration and replacement of devices.

UMATI (Universal Machine Tool Interface): An initiative aimed at establishing a worldwide standard for connecting machine tools to higher-level systems for data exchange. The goal is to improve accessibility and promote interoperability within the manufacturing industry.

IO-Link Wireless – Global Communication Standard 

IO-Link wireless extends the capabilities of the well-established IO-Link standard into the area of wireless communication. It’s characterized by its ability to provide universal data exchange and configuration tools for sensors and actuators without the need for traditional wiring.

Communication standards play a critical role in shaping the modern manufacturing industry. By providing a common language for devices to communicate, standards like IO-Link wireless are empowering factory owners to build more efficient, flexible, and resilient operations.