Abstract: A data transmission network having at least two devices to transmit and receive data with the devices connected via a passive transmission device so that the data is transmitted between the devices using the passive transmission device. Each of the devices includes a converter to control data transmission using the passive transmission device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a network comprising a plurality of devices (1) connected via a transmission device (2). A converter (4) is disposed between a field bus environment and an “Ethernet environment” and controls data transmission between the two environments.

Abstract: An Ethernet network with redundancy properties and an associated method for detecting and eliminating errors in the network. A redundancy manager (6), which is connected to the line ends of the network (1), checks the status of the network by transmitting and receiving test telegrams. If there is an interruption in the network, the redundancy manager (6) connects the line ends (7, 8) and thereby ensures continued network operation within milliseconds. The network has a loop structure that is less expensive than a dual bus structure even though fast media redundancy is ensured.