Cisco and Rockwell Automation Collaborate

ARCWire -- Rockwell Automation, a global provider of power, control and information solutions, and Cisco, a global provider of networking solutions for the Internet, announced at the Hannover Messe they are collaborating on their common technology view, building reference architectures using standard networking technologies, such as EtherNet/IP, and providing market education to enable people and process optimization.

Building Reference Architectures for Manufacturing Networks
Rockwell Automation and Cisco are working together on reference architectures and detailed design guidelines for the use of common networking technologies across the production and enterprise network, addressing two long-standing industry challenges — greater efficiency and visibility. The validated, lab- tested architectures, part of Cisco's "Ethernet to the Factory" solution, will enable the successful deployment of Ethernet-based production networks and secure integration with the rest of the enterprise.

Addressing Customer Demands for Common Network Technology
The collaboration between Rockwell Automation and Cisco was formed to help leverage common open technology with security and reliability, while meeting the varied requirements across functions for an optimized networking solution — a desire strongly expressed by the companies' joint customers.

Leveraging Industry Standards
Rockwell Automation and Cisco are leading members of ODVA — an international association comprising members from the world's leading automation companies who support network technologies using the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP), including EtherNet/IP. Through their collaboration and membership in ODVA, the companies will drive continued innovation into validated open network standards.

Craig Resnick, ARC Advisory Group, commented, "Manufacturers operate in an environment that requires a pervasive exchange of information across all domains of the manufacturing enterprise. As manufacturers move into a global business climate that demands the integration of manufacturing operations and business systems, collaboration must move beyond hype to become a commonplace reality. Rockwell Automation and Cisco will provide manufacturers with the guidance needed to facilitate plant floor and IT network integration in a manner that achieves secure connectivity through the use of EtherNet/IP technology."