Set up initial EtherCAT device connection

As an example, the connection of the BNI to a Beckhoff TwinCAT control is shown with the TwinCAT System Manager. The exact procedure depends on the project planning software used.

Installing ESI files

The device description has the following name: Balluff BNI XG5-538-1B5-Z067 ECS V.x.x.x.xml

Copy the file to the corresponding TwinCAT directory (in the standard: C:\TwinCAT\3.1\Config\Io\EtherCAT).

⇒ Installed devices are available when the TwinCAT System Manager starts again.

Adding the Network Module as EtherCAT Device

You can either choose to automatically scan the EtherCAT network for devices or manually add a device. Both methods are described below.

Automatic scanning

Prerequisite

Before connecting devices to the EtherCAT network, the EtherCAT system must be in a secure, de-energized state.

Switch on the operating voltage and start the TwinCAT System Manager in Config mode.
Select Scan in the context menu of the EtherCAT master.

Automatic scanning

Manually adding a device

Prerequisite

Before connecting devices to the EtherCAT network, the EtherCAT system must be in a secure, de-energized state.

Switch on the operating voltage and start the TwinCAT System Manager in Config mode.
Attach an EtherCAT Slave by selecting “Add New Item” in the context menu of the EtherCAT master.

Manually adding a device
Select the EtherCAT Device you want to add.

Select a box