Hitachi FL.NET User Manual page 35

1 OVERVIEW
<The functions required for FA controllers are supported.>
Since the initial objective of FL-net is to meet user requests, it offers various features required
for FA (factory automation).
• Large-scale network
Up to 254 units of devices (nodes) can be connected.
• Selective use of two different communication features for various purposes
Both the common memory feature and message communication feature are supported. The
former permits all nodes to share the same data through cyclic communications. The latter
allows necessary information to be exchanged only when it is needed.
• Large-capacity common memory
The common memory has a capacity as large as 8k bits + 8k words.
• Fast response
When FL-net-compliant modules are interconnected, the performance varies with the
connected devices. However, when the S10V FL.NET modules (Ver. 2.00: Model LQE702)
are interconnected, the response speed is as high as 42 ms/32 nodes (in 2k bit + 2k word
mode).
• High reliability based on the use of a masterless system
Since no master exists, individual nodes can participate and depart without affecting the
communications maintained by the other nodes. As a result, any nodes can be freely
switched on/off and serviced.
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