SLAAEM2 October 2024 AM2434
Selecting the appropriate processing system for industrial communication depends on the specific requirements of the application. For example, the communication needs of a remote sensor differ significantly from those of a controller like a PLC. Texas Instruments (TI) offers versatile solutions to meet these varying requirements, utilizing the PRU-ICSS and CPSW industrial Ethernet MACs. These MAC implementations support a wide range of industrial communication needs and are available across a scalable processor family, ranging from single-core Arm microcontrollers to multi-core Arm® microprocessors.
Traditionally, industrial communication was handled by a separate subsystem that interfaced with a microprocessor or microcontroller via parallel or serial connections. However, these interfaces could become bottlenecks, limiting data bandwidth and overall system performance based on the user application's demands.
To address these limitations, TI provides single-chip solutions that integrate the MAC, industrial communication stack, and application processor. These solutions reduce the bill of materials (BOM), PCB area, and cost, while also eliminating data exchange bottlenecks by leveraging high-speed internal bus interfaces. This integration ensures that process data transfer between the industrial communication stack/MAC and the application is efficient and unrestricted.
TI's industrial communication solution offers a complete package, including processors, Ethernet PHYs, clocking, power solutions, and evaluation modules (EVMs). These components are complemented by industrial communication stack libraries, software examples, and extensive technical support, providing a robust platform for developing industrial communication systems.