VABS - A new approach for Real Time Ethernet

Nowadays automation manufacturers focus increasingly on Real Time Ethernet (RTE) based networks. The RTE protocols are closely related to standard Ethernet, which has been developed originally for pure asynchronous, non-time-critical communication. Hence, conventional RTE networks are confined to certain performance limits. In this study we present VABS (Very High Performance Automation Bus System), a new RTE approach, which uses its own specified data link layer protocol but still deploys Ethernet physical components. We compare VABS with Profinet IRT and EtherCAT by the use of performance indicators, specified in IEC 61784. The presented analysis exhibits that VABS indeed achieves a performance advance concerning both, the real-time and the asynchronous communication. It turns out that the benefits in terms of the asynchronous channel are considerable.