Ethernet is the most widely used technology for local area networks (LAN) worldwide. It defines the fundamentals of data communication between devices within a network and is largely based on the standards of the series IEEE 802.3.
Ethernet allows computers, servers, control systems, measuring devices, data loggers, and many other network components to communicate with one another. Data is typically transmitted via copper cables or fiber-optic cables, enabling transmission rates ranging from several megabits to several gigabits per second, depending on the configuration.
Today, Ethernet forms the technical foundation for virtually all modern corporate, industrial, and automation networks. Numerous industrial communication protocols also use Ethernet as their transport medium.
In measurement and data acquisition systems, Ethernet is often used to exchange measurement data between sensors, data acquisition hardware, analysis software, and higher-level systems. Ethernet allows measurement devices to be accessed locally on the network or across multiple locations via the Internet.
Communication typically takes place on the basis of the TCP/IP protocol family, which also forms the foundation of the Internet. Delphin hardware and software use Ethernet and TCP/IP for numerous functions, such as data acquisition, visualization, remote maintenance, alarm notification, and integration into higher-level systems.
Typical applications of Ethernet in measurement technology:
- Networking of Measuring Instruments and Data Loggers
- Communication between measurement hardware and analysis software
- Remote Access to Measurement Systems
- Transfer of Large Volumes of Measurement Data
- Integration with control systems and databases
- Integration into Industry 4.0 and IoT Applications
Advantages of Ethernet:
- A globally established networking standard
- High data transfer rates
- Easy integration into existing networks
- Long ranges and flexible network topologies
- Support for numerous communication protocols
- High availability of hardware and software components
Ethernet in Delphin Systems
Delphin measurement and data acquisition systems use Ethernet as the central communication interface for configuration, data acquisition, remote monitoring, and system integration. This allows measurement data to be efficiently collected, analyzed, and integrated into higher-level IT and automation structures.
Ethernet is therefore a key foundation for modern measurement, testing, and automation applications and enables the reliable networking of devices, software, and users.