Requirements for EtherCAT

This information prepares you to connect the plasma power supply to the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) with EtherCAT® cables.

  • For an example of a system diagram, refer to EtherCAT multi-drop (multi-system) interface (Sheet 17 of 23).
  • For information about signals and protocols, refer to EtherCAT communications and Serial RS-422 and EtherCAT commands in the CNC Communication Protocol for the XPR Cutting System (10085793).
  • Hypertherm® sells EtherCAT cables that have been tested with our cutting system. Refer to EtherCAT and Ethernet LAN interface cables.
  • If you supply your own cables, choose EtherCAT cables that follow the Beckhoff® specification. Refer to Requirements for EtherCAT and Ethernet LAN cables.
  • To help prevent problems from Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), make sure that the EtherCAT cables:
  • Hypertherm recommends a minimum distance of one meter (3.3 feet) between the plasma power supply and other system components, or between the plasma power supply and an obstacle.
Figure 1. EtherCAT cable
Example image of an EtherCAT cable