Ethernet is now the adopted networking standard for automation and the theatre environment is no exception. Applications include networked controls for hoists and other stage machinery.
Unlike alternative proprietary Ethernet protocol approaches which use modified versions of the Ethernet standard compatible with the requirements of different industries, Fast Track Switching is totally based on standard Ethernet, but adds a new switching method to ensure that industry-specific requirements on performance and determinism are fully met, says the company.
The key components in Fast Track Switching are Fast Ethernet switches in Harting's Ha-VIS FTS 3000 product family, which can detect and identify customised automation profiles, accelerate their data-transmission speeds and prioritise them. The detection, acceleration and prioritisation mechanisms guarantee the necessary determinism and performance that the end-user technology demands.
Many existing theatre and concert applications use one Ethernet system operating as a general-purpose IT network passing control and status information between managers' consoles and 'field' based controllers. Typically, a second automation network connects the control centres to the actual units being controlled.
With Fast Track Switching technology, these two separate networks could be combined into a single network with prioritisation of the automation-related messages: a concept known as 'Automation IT'. The result is improved network configuration and reduced system installed costs.
(Jim Evans)
