Introduction to Control Networks in an Industrial Setting

In Introduction to Control Networks in an Industrial Setting , you'll learn ...

• Communication nomenclature including the definition of baseband, broadband, bandwidth, bauds, and parity
• ISO's OSI seven-layer model
• Types of physical media including coax cable, twisted pair cable and fiber optic cable
• Common network topology, including bus, star and ring types

Overview

Credit: 3 PDH

Length: 19 pages

Communication networks have historically been considered too unreliable to be used in critical applications within the industrial arena. But, advances in technology over the last decade have changed all of that. The new generation of networks are robust enough to handle critical industrial communication needs that would have been considered unthinkable just a few short years ago.

This course is an introductory-level discussion on networking techniques typically used in process control systems. Topics include general theory, physical and logical arrangements, some of the more common equipment, as well as terminology. It covers representative examples of what the student is likely to encounter in an industrial setting. It does not concentrate too specifically on any particular standard, but will familiarize the reader with fundamental ideas that will make it possible to pursue more in-depth study, should the student require it.

This course is written at a level that can be understood by engineers of all disciplines. No prerequisite knowledge of control systems or communication networks is needed to complete this course.

This course is recommended for control systems engineers, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, process engineers, chemical engineers, civil engineers and even structural engineers who have a need or a desire to learn the basics of control networks in an industrial setting.