Maximize your industrial network with the Helmholz gateway selection tool

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With the rapidly changing industrial world today, reliable communication between systems is more important than ever. At Helmholz Benelux, we understand how crucial flexibility and compatibility are to industrial networks. Our extensive product line of gateways and couplers makes it easy to integrate across almost any industrial protocol, giving you the freedom to build your network your way.

Discover your ideal gateway with our selection tool

To make the process of selecting the perfect gateway for your specific needs easier, we offer an intuitive Gateway Selection Tool. With the use of a simple-to-use interface, you can select and mix different industrial protocols and instantly get results that link your favorite networks. Our selection tool makes the decision easy.

Learning industrial protocols: Master/Slave and Controller/Device architectures

Industrial communication protocols use mostly different architectures to define the exchange mode between devices:

  • PROFINET (IO-Controller / IO-Device): PROFINET uses a decentralized architecture where an IO-Controller manages communication with IO-Devices, enabling real-time Ethernet-based industrial automation.
  • EtherNet/IP (Scanner / Adapter): In EtherNet/IP networks, the Scanner (equivalent to a master) initiates communication, while Adapters (slaves) respond.
  • EtherCAT (Master / Slave): EtherCAT follows a strict Master/Slave model, where the Master controls all data exchange.
  • Modbus (Client / Server): Modbus RTU and TCP can function as either Master/Slave or Client/Server, where a Client (equivalent to a master) requests data from a Server.
  • CANopen (NMT Master / NMT Slave): CANopen networks are controlled by an NMT (Network Management) Master, managing data exchange with multiple NMT Slaves.
  • CAN Layer 2: A low-level protocol for direct CAN bus communication without additional protocol overhead.
  • CAN SAE J1939: A CAN-based protocol designed for vehicle and industrial automation applications, widely used in heavy machinery and transport.
  • PROFIBUS (Master / Slave): In Profibus DP networks, the Master controls communication, and Slaves respond to commands.
  • MQTT (Publisher / Subscriber): A lightweight messaging protocol designed for IoT and industrial automation, using a publish/subscribe model.

Knowledge of the architectures is extremely critical while integrating products from different vendors or expanding to existing networks. The implementation of the correct gateway ensures smooth communication between these disparate architectures.

Comprehensive solutions for diverse protocols

Our portfolio includes gateways supporting a wide variety of industrial protocols to provide maximum flexibility:

  • PROFINET (IO-Controller / IO-Device)
  • EtherNet/IP (Scanner / Adapter)
  • EtherCAT (Master / Slave)
  • Modbus RTU / Modbus TCP (Client / Server)
  • Profibus DP (Master / Slave)
  • CANopen (NMT Master / NMT Slave)
  • CAN Layer 2
  • SAE J1939
  • DeviceNet (Scanner / Adapter)
  • CC-Link (Master / Slave)
  • Powerlink (Managing Node / Controlled Node)
  • Sercos (Master/ Slave)
  • Serieel (RS232/RS485/RS422)
  • VARAN (Master / Slave)
  • MQTT (Publisher / Subscriber)

With our Gateway Selection Tool, you can simply identify the optimum gateway to match your network requirements, giving you maximum performance and integration.

Helmholz – Your Expert for PROFINET and Industrial Networks

Through our know-how and experience, Helmholz Benelux provides best-in-class products while collaborating closely with you to find the best solutions.

Find out about our solutions or get in touch for personal advice. Experience the benefits of a partner who understands the nuances of industrial communication and is committed to your success.