Abstract: A method for encapsulating HTTP messages within a MODBUS message is described in the present invention. This MODBUS message can be encoded and sent using either MODBUS/TCP or serial MODBUS. Within MODBUS, the encapsulation is built using the MODBUS Encapsulation Interface (MEI). The HTTP message may contain HTML, XML, XHTML, or SGML.

Abstract: An interface circuit for use between an input circuit and an industrial automation system is disclosed. The industrial automation system includes an opto-coupler capable of being operably connected to the interface circuit. The interface circuit includes a first and second terminal, each terminal capable of being operably connected to the opto-coupler. A first current-source is operably connected to the first terminal and a second current-source is operably connected to the second terminal. A reference voltage is operably connected to the first current-source and the second current-source wherein the first and second current-source cooperate to provide a total input current in accordance with the operating characteristics of the industrial automation circuit.

Abstract: A method for encapsulating HTTP messages within a MODBUS message is described in the present invention. This MODBUS message can be encoded and sent using either MODBUS/TCP or serial MODBUS. Within MODBUS, the encapsulation is built using the MODBUS Encapsulation Interface (MEI). The HTTP message may contain HTML, XML, XHTML, or SGML.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for the automatic configuration of a factory automation device is described. The automatic configuration involves the identification of the device's network address, then involves the search for a configuration server. The configuration server contains the configuration record to download to the automation device, and may contain configuration records for a number of devices. As a result, a search must be made within the configuration server for the configuration record of the specific device. Once found, the configuration is downloaded from the configuration server to the automation device.

Abstract: A protocol for communication between automation devices and a method for communicating between automation devices is disclosed. The protocol is an enhancement to the Modbus/TCP protocol, and includes a CRC-32 and time stamp fields at the application layer to increase the assurance of the message integrity. This increased integrity in network messages is critical in the operation of safety system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for identifying MAC addresses using bar codes is explained. A label that includes the MAC address in bar code format is attached to a network device and used with a bar code reader to enter the MAC address into system network tables.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a communications system in a programmable controller comprising smart modules, a network module connected to a TCP/IP network and an internal communications bus, for example the backplane bus connecting all the modules of the programmable controller with each other. The communications system enables exchanges of information in compliance with the TCP/IP protocol, to be performed on the internal communications bus. Each smart module has its own IP address and a TCP/IP stack. The communications bus includes several separate communications channels providing for simultaneous flow of the frames complying with the TCP/IP protocol together with frames complying with other protocols. The invention also relates to a programmable controller capable of implementing such a communications system.