IDX recently supported a client with targeted troubleshooting and networking assistance on a large EtherCAT installation within a new distribution sorting facility. The facility’s conveyor input and output (I/O) system was intermittently losing communication with the controller, causing occasional disruptions.
Using EtherCAT’s robust topology-based protocol with advanced diagnostics and detailed statistics, our engineers quickly pinpointed the affected nodes and began isolating the cause.
Given the intermittent nature of the issue, potential causes included a device fault, a physical connection problem, or electromagnetic interference (EMI) corrupting data telegrams. After ruling out EMI and hardware faults, our network engineer turned attention to the M7 connectors on the suspect devices.
Through careful inspection and physical testing, the fault was recreated and traced to a faulty M7 connection. Once replaced and re-terminated, the network stabilised, restoring seamless communication and reliable plant performance.
The client was pleased with how quickly the issue was resolved and appreciated the hands-on support and expertise our team provided, allowing their operations to run smoothly again.
Contact us for your EtherCAT networking service and support requirements.
Phone: 011 548 9960 | Email: support@idx.co.za | Website: www.idx.co.za
