Hilscher for netX 90 multi-protocol network chip
Launch of motion-controllable firmware configuration communication solution
Integrates industrial communications and motion control functions into a single chip


Hilscher announced on the 15th the launch of netMOTION, a firmware-configurable communications solution with motor control capabilities for networked factory and process control systems, as well as applications in assembly, packaging, and robotics. NetMOTION allows developers to implement real-time Ethernet connectivity and general-purpose motor and motion control capabilities on a single chip.

Embedded system designers for network-enabled field device applications face challenges related to communication strategies. They must decide whether to support a single network protocol or support multi-protocol capabilities to serve diverse market segments and regions. NetMotion comprehensively addresses these challenges.

Chip solutions for motion and motor control systems often lack real-time Ethernet connectivity. Hilscher's 'netX 90' multiprotocol network chip leverages NetMotion to integrate industrial communications and versatile motion control functionality on a single chip. This reduces design burden and cost, and enables response to various applications and markets.

The netX 90, a highly integrated network chip, meets the stringent application requirements of harsh industrial environments with its power-efficient design and extended temperature range. It also provides a low-latency, deterministic, network-synchronized solution for designing FOC-based motor control systems using Hall, encoder, and resolver position feedback for 3-phase PMSM and BLDC motors.

Hilscher plans to release a development kit for its new NetMotion solution in the first quarter of this year. This development kit, which includes hardware, software, and tools, enables the design of synchronized, speed-controlled, closed-loop motor control application profiles based on real-time Ethernet industrial communication protocols. NetMotion comes with common control applications developers need to get started.

Additionally, the supported 'NXHX 90-MC' software development board is ready to use immediately with Hilscher's 'netX Studio CDT', a free Eclipse-based IDE that includes the elements needed to configure, develop and debug embedded applications. A variety of plug-in modules for the development board are also provided.