H
owever, as is often the case with any new technology, the
advancements within Ethernet are outpacing the knowledge
and training of those who must utilise it. This leads to networks
which, while fulfilling their purpose at the most basic level, fail to
fully live up to their potential. A properly designed and implemented
network can lead to great savings in both production and time, as
problems with network and end devices can be easily identified.
With redundancy in place, failures do not have to mean a shutdown
Planning and designing an
Ethernet network for mission
critical communications
T Craven, H3iSquared
Ethernet has become the de facto standard for use in mission
critical communication networks, especially those used to control
power grids. Ethernet standards are constantly evolving, which has
led to Ethernet being feasible for use in latency and time sensitive
applications, improving the standard on an ongoing basis. Until
something completely new and paradigm altering is developed, it
is safe to say that Ethernet is here to stay.
of the grid or sections thereof. It is important that the knowledge is in
place when designing the network, as Ethernet is no longer a simple
technology that can be improvised; it has become a school of its own.
Hardware
One of the main steps when designing a mission critical network is
deciding what hardware to use. Budget is obviously always a factor
to be considered; however, utilising the incorrect hardware based on
a budgetary perspective can lead to greater losses in the long run if
the hardware does not live up to expectations. It is important to select
hardware that complies with the relevant technical standards for your
requirements, and not to pay for functionality that will never be utilised.
As stated, Ethernet is a complex group of standards and not all of these
will be necessary or even beneficial on your network. For instance, if
extremely accurate time synchronisation is required for your network
then IEEE1588/PTP [1] (Precision Time Protocol) with a GPS master
clock should be considered. If this level of accuracy is not required,
purchasing PTP compliant hardware will add unnecessary expense
4
Ethernet networks were once things that ran on a shop floor, in the
process plant and office. Now, mission critical applications include
the monitoring and control of substations, where the same network
system provides overall management and control. The planning and
design of an Ethernet network must be reviewed.
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY MADE SIMPLE 2015