Basic Mode - with the full name 'CC-Link IE Field Network Basic' - can be implemented in devices or master controllers using software alone and without any major effort. This makes existing products compatible with CC-Link IE without any hardware modifications.

"There are still device manufacturers who are interested in the benefits of CC-Link IE core technology, but for various reasons do not yet want to support Gigabit Physical Layers," explains John Browett, General Manager of CLPA Europe (CC-Link Partner Association). "In some cases this is because of the communications platform on which their products are currently based, in others because their products serve a market for which Gigabit performance will only play a role in the future. The basic mode extension overcomes these limitations by making the network and its benefits available without the need to support gigabit performance at the physical layer."

Because the basic mode protocol stack is compatible with TCP/IP and UDP/IP, it integrates seamlessly with other Ethernet-based technologies (including switches, cables, connectors and wireless systems). Implementation in existing 100 MBit Ethernet devices is therefore possible through pure software development. In addition, the master controllers for the network are also based purely on software. Industrial PCs or other Ethernet-capable controllers can therefore be quickly set up to operate a basic mode network without the need for special interface cards, driver development or any other additional effort.

To simplify the implementation of Basic Mode, the CLPA offers its members free sample code. In addition, key CLPA partners such as Balluff, CKD, Hilscher, Idec Elektrotechnik, Mitsubishi Electric, Molex, Phoenix Contact and Renesas Electronics are considering developing products. In order to make support for the new technology attractive to other companies, the CLPA has announced a special program whereby companies that develop a Basic Mode product can have it certified by the CLPA free of charge until the end of October 2017.

"Basic Mode rounds off the CLPA's offering and now also opens up CC-Link IE via 100 Mbit Ethernet for the lower market segment and for small-format systems," explains Browett. "At the same time, the compatibility with conventional CC-Link IE technology opens up opportunities to combine different network types according to the requirements of the application. In any case, this opens up additional business opportunities, regardless of whether a company wants to enter the market in Europe or Asia."