What Is EtherNet/IP? Industrial Ethernet Communication Explained.

What Is EtherNet/IP?

EtherNet/IP is an industrial networking protocol that uses standard Ethernet and Internet Protocol technologies together with the Common Industrial Protocol, or CIP, to exchange information between automation devices.

It is widely used to connect programmable logic controllers, motor drives, sensors, industrial robots, and other factory equipment.

For example, a robotic packaging cell may use EtherNet/IP to exchange status information and operating commands with the production line's main controller.

Key Takeaways

• EtherNet/IP uses standard Ethernet technologies with CIP-based industrial communication services.
• It supports information exchange between controllers, drives, sensors, and other automation equipment.
• EtherNet/IP and EtherCAT are different protocols and are not automatically interchangeable.

How Does EtherNet/IP Work?

Consider a factory production line with a conveyor, robotic arm, and packaging machine.

The equipment needs to coordinate its operations.

A controller may need to know when a product reaches a certain position and whether the robot has completed its previous task.

EtherNet/IP allows compatible devices to exchange this information through a network.

It supports different communication methods.

Explicit messaging is commonly used for operations such as configuration, diagnostics, and requesting particular information.

Implicit messaging is used for scheduled or cyclic exchange of operating data.

The application determines how these communication services are configured.

What Is CIP?

CIP stands for Common Industrial Protocol.

It defines industrial communication services and object models used by several networking technologies.

EtherNet/IP carries CIP over Ethernet and IP networks.

CIP provides a common way to describe and exchange information concerning industrial equipment.

Additional technologies within the CIP ecosystem support capabilities such as motion coordination, time synchronization, security, and safety-related communication.

These functions require compatible devices and appropriate configuration.

EtherNet/IP vs. EtherCAT

Both technologies support industrial automation, but their designs differ.

EtherNet/IP uses conventional Ethernet and IP technologies together with CIP services.

EtherCAT uses a specialized frame-processing architecture designed for efficient communication with distributed automation devices.

Both can support demanding industrial applications, although their timing characteristics and system implementations differ.

The appropriate choice depends on device compatibility, automation requirements, network design, and supported features.

Why Is EtherNet/IP Important in Robotics?

Commercial robots rarely operate completely independently from surrounding factory equipment.

They may need to exchange information with conveyors, PLCs, safety systems, and manufacturing software.

EtherNet/IP provides one way to establish these connections.

For example, a robot controller can report its operating status while receiving task requests from a compatible PLC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EtherNet/IP the same as an internet connection?

No. EtherNet/IP is an industrial automation protocol. It can operate on a local factory network without public internet access.

Can EtherNet/IP carry safety-related information?

Compatible CIP Safety implementations can support safety-related communication, but appropriate certified equipment and system design are required.

The Bottom Line

EtherNet/IP provides industrial communication services over widely used Ethernet technologies. It helps connect robots with the controllers and equipment that coordinate factory operations.