Modern automation applications place increasing demands on space efficiency, easy installation, and diagnostics of devices in cabinets. The new EtherNet/IP™ in-cabinet system offers an innovative solution that fully meets these requirements.

What is EtherNet/IP in-cabinet?

It is a low-cost solution for control cabinets that enables secure and direct access to important data from devices—such as identification, operating status, diagnostics, or maintenance information. All of this without the need for complex wiring between the PLC and individual components...

The EtherNet/IP in-cabinet system uses a linear bus topology and allows the connection of dozens of devices over a relatively long distance. Devices connected to the bus are automatically displayed in the Studio 5000 application environment, significantly simplifying their configuration and commissioning.

Key Technical Features and Benefits

1. Easy Integration

EtherNet/IP enables the connection of control components from OT operations with higher-level IT systems. Access to production-level data is available in real-time, simplifying device management, monitoring, and predictive maintenance.

2. Reduced Cabling and Faster Installation

Replacing point-to-point connections with network communication reduces the number of wires inside the cabinet. The solution uses a single flat cable that carries both data and power. This simplifies installation, reduces the risk of incorrect wiring, and saves time.

3. System Compactness

Compact component dimensions and support for modular connections reduce the physical size of the cabinet. Smaller enclosures save materials, installation space, and installation costs.

4. Diagnostics and Configuration

The system is fully integrated into the Studio 5000 Logix Designer® environment, enabling:

• Automatic device recognition
• Module configuration and addressing
• Access to operational and diagnostic information at the device level

Scalable Topology Support

EtherNet/IP In-cabinet Solution supports a multi-drop topology with up to 40 devices per branch over a distance of 25 m. This enables flexible network architecture design directly inside the cabinet without the need for additional switches or separate power supplies.

System Components:

The system consists of several key elements that together form a fully integrated and modular platform:

• Network Interface – connects devices to the upper-level Ethernet network and serves as a power source
• Flat interconnection cable – transmits both data and power along the bus
• Communication modules for contactors – for connecting power components
• Communication modules for control elements – for connecting 800F series operators
• Interconnection connectors – connect communication modules to the flat interconnection cable

Communication Modules for Contactors – For Network Integration of Switching and Protective Devices

Communication interfaces for contactors are used to connect motor circuit breakers, contactors, and motor protection devices. These modules turn standard motor starters for direct-on-line starts into smart devices that can be easily monitored and controlled from the control system without additional cabling.

Communication Modules for 800F Operators – For Network Integration of Control and Signaling Devices

Communication modules for the 800F control device series are used to connect illuminated and non-illuminated push buttons, switches, indicators, including e-stop buttons. They allow the detection of the current operator state (e.g., button press) and immediate transmission over the network to the control system without the need for separate wiring.

Key technical features:

• Two available versions
  • Without backlight
  • With universal RGB backlight
• Simple installation by snapping onto the existing 800F-ALP or 800F-ALM connector block
• Optional additional installation of standard 800F-X10 or 800F-X01 contact blocks
• Configurable in Studio 5000 Logix Designer, visible in the FTLinx communication tool
  Intuitive module configuration via available Add-On Profile (AOP)

Flat Connectors 1486-CON – Reliable and Easy Connection for EtherNet/IP System

Special connectors are used to connect individual components to the flat bus cable. They ensure mechanical and electrical connections between the communication gateway and end devices on the internal bus. They also enable power distribution for all connected devices.

Key features and benefits:

• Various connector types allow cable routing to suit different connection variants
• Multi-keying prevents incorrect connector use or reversed orientation
• Innovative connector covers
  • Locking mechanism for easy opening, mounting, and re-closing
  • Clear laser marking for accurate positioning and cable direction
  • Transparent covers on P2L, P2R, S1, and T variants allow visual inspection of wire terminations without disassembly
• Protective jaws on the connectors support the use of various crimping tools while maintaining consistent clamping – ensuring reliable and safe connections

Modern industrial automation increasingly demands efficiency, flexibility, and transparency. New technologies simplify cabinet wiring, speed up installation, and improve device management and diagnostics — and this solution follows the same direction.

Whether you're designing a new project or optimizing existing cabinets, the EtherNet/IP™ in-cabinet system offers flexibility, efficiency, and safety without compromise.

Integrating communication functions directly into components brings added value in terms of time, space, and cost savings. At the same time, it enables easier system expansion, higher operational reliability, and access to critical data in real time.

This approach provides a solid foundation for building intelligent and sustainable automation solutions that meet current and future manufacturing demands.

For more information about the EtherNet/IP In-cabinet system, don’t hesitate to contact our technical department.