With netMOTION, Hilscher expands its program to support multiple Real-Time Ethernet protocols with firmware-based solutions to include motion control. While typical chip solutions for motor control applications usually lack Real-Time Ethernet connectivity, the netX 90 uniquely combines industrial communication with multifunctional motion and motor control functions in a single-chip solution. This opens up new possibilities for adaptation and customization to a wide range of applications and markets while reducing design effort and material costs.

For network-enabled field device applications, embedded system developers are often faced with the question of which communication strategy to invest in: a single network protocol solution or a multi-protocol solution that can serve different market segments and geographic regions.

Motion control and real-time communication in one chip

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netMOTION is a comprehensive answer to all these challenges. The dual Cortex® M4-based SoC architecture consists of a communication processor subsystem and an application processor host system with integrated motor control functions to create a single-chip solution for motion and drive control with network connectivity that is optimized in terms of design and space.

As a result, the netX 90 is a highly integrated, energy-efficient design and the right choice for demanding applications in harsh industrial environments with an elevated temperature range. It offers a deterministic, low-latency, network-synchronized solution for FOC-based motor control with position feedback based on Hall sensors or encoder signals for 3-phase PMSM and BLDC motors. Both motor types are used in industry for a wide range of applications. PMSM solutions can be found in industrial applications with precise movements such as servo drives, hydraulics, pneumatics and many more.

Development kit for netMOTION prototyping

The company will launch a development kit for netMOTION in the first quarter of 2021. The development kit, consisting of hardware, software and tool components, enables the design of a speed-controlled motor controller with an application profile that is synchronized via an industrial Real-Time Ethernet communication protocol. netMOTION is supplied with a generic control application to support developers in the implementation of initial designs.

The development kit for netMOTION from Hilscher will be available from Q1/2021

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The available NXHX 90-MC software development board can be operated directly with Hilscher's netX Studio CDT, a free Eclipse-based IDE that contains everything required for the configuration, development and debugging of embedded applications. It is therefore intended for rapid prototyping and evaluation purposes. Hilscher also offers a range of plug-in modules for the development board.