CC-Link IE is Mitsubishi Electric’s network of choice for Industry 4.0

The Ethernet-based CC-Link IE open network provides Mitsubishi Electric with an optimal solution for its range of PLCs, HMIs, robots, inverters, servo motion systems, and other automation devices. A major advantage of CC-Link IE is the unique gigabit capabilities offered, said Alberto Griffini, Product Manager at Mitsubishi Electric.

He continued: “e -Factory is Mitsubishi Electric’s concept for Industry 4.0 and CC-Link IE is a key element of this strategy, as it provides high-speed, high-performance open connectivity.” Mitsubishi Electric’s adoption of CC-Link IE technology attests to the digital transformation process permeating industries across different sectors.

In order for industries to implement smart factories, high bandwidth real time communications among devices and machines are a must. Therefore, advanced networking technologies featuring sufficient bandwidth are key. 

Griffini explained: “High-performance networks are very important to address Industry 4.0 requirements. Sharing big amounts of data from field devices enables operators to perform various services, including monitoring, diagnostics and maintenance activities. This also helps customers to improve the overall plant productivity.”

Thanks to all these features, CC-Link IE has been showing double digit growth for the past several years and now has over 22 million devices installed globally.

Griffini added that by choosing CC-Link IE, companies like Mitsubishi Electric also benefit from being members of the CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA): “One of the biggest advantages of working with an established organisation like the CLPA, is the possibility to take advantage of the global promotional opportunities it offers. In addition, the CLPA provides guidance and support for product development, including device conformance tests to ensure interoperability among devices developed for CC-Link IE networks.”

Currently, there are over 1,700 compliant products from more than 300 manufacturers. This attests to the appeal and the broad acceptance of the CC-Link IE technology worldwide, making it a key standard for many industries.