Hilscher, an industrial communications and automation company, has introduced a plug-in embedded module that enables the integration of industrial communications functions into small field devices without soldering. Based on the proven netX 90 communication controller, this product supports device manufacturers in implementing communication interfaces using only standard sockets.

Hilscher announced on the 17th that it has released the netRAPID 90IC, a secure embedded module for industrial communication.

This module uses standard sockets instead of fixed soldering, simplifying integration and reducing production risks and rework costs.

In addition, it supports major industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, and CC-Link IE Field Basic on a single hardware platform.

The netRAPID 90IC measures 18mm × 45mm and can be applied to field devices in fields such as welding, drives, measurement and control, metering, and laser technology where installation space is limited.

It is reported that in the event of defects or production errors, only the module can be replaced independently of the device hardware, which can reduce downtime and lifecycle costs.

This module handles various protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, MQTT, OPC UA, PROFIBUS, Modbus, and CANopen as a device (slave).

Through an integrated firmware stack, OPC UA and MQTT communication are possible in addition to industrial Ethernet, and field-side data can be transmitted to IT and cloud systems without additional hardware or gateways.

Security functions were directly integrated into the module architecture. The netRAPID 90IC based on netX 90 features hardware-assisted encryption, secure boot, and key and certificate management functions through CryptoCore.

The company stated that this enables it to meet security specifications required by the European Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), such as secure configuration, updates, and vulnerability response.

“Equipment manufacturers are facing increasing pressure regarding security and flexibility specifications along with rapid development cycles,” explained Simon Fischer, Product Manager at Hilscher. “The netRAPID 90IC is a communication module that enables convenient integration, reduced production risk, and early response to future specifications such as cyber resilience.”