CIPcompatible

CIP-compatible refers to devices, software, or systems that implement the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) in accordance with ODVA specifications and are capable of interoperating with other CIP-compliant equipment on CIP networks. CIP is a family of standards used in industrial automation to enable real-time data exchange across networks such as EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, and ControlNet, and it includes extensions like CIP Safety and CIP Motion. Being CIP-compatible means supporting the CIP object model, services, and data types, including the concept of CIP Objects with attributes and instance IDs, and the ability to perform both explicit and implicit messaging across the network.

In practical terms, CIP-compatibility involves implementing core CIP capabilities such as object-based data access, identity and configuration through the Identity Object, and the two primary messaging modes: implicit I/O messaging for high-speed data exchange and explicit messaging for device management and data access. It also means adhering to network transport mappings prescribed by the CIP family (for example, EtherNet/IP) and conforming to profiles or device classes defined within CIP standards.

Compliance and testing: CIP compatibility is often demonstrated through ODVA’s conformance testing and certification programs. Devices that pass these tests may carry a CIP-conformance mark, signaling interoperability with other CIP-enabled equipment. Some manufacturers distinguish between partial and full conformance, indicating support for specific CIP components, such as EtherNet/IP I/O messaging or CIP Safety.

Limitations and scope: Being CIP-compatible does not guarantee universal interoperability with every CIP device or profile; compatibility depends on the implemented CIP features and profiles. Users should verify the specific CIP capabilities and the scope of conformance for a given product.

See also: ODVA, EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, CIP Safety, CIP Motion.