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Oversampling and Time Stamping
Two newer functions in the application layer are transmitting more information per clock cycle (oversampling) and transmitting event-controlled information independently from the fixed clock cycle (time stamping).
The oversampling function makes it possible to transmit more than one target/actual value per clock cycle. This increases the process control intricacy in extremely time-critical applications -- laser applications for instance -- because it allows for more data to be collected and communicated at a faster speed. Measurement methods are integrated directly into the protocol, opening up the possibility to access these mechanisms across different manufacturer’s equipment, independently of the product.
Likewise, time stamping opens up new communications options beyond the fixed clock cycle. This function is event-controlled, promptly transmitting defined events, such as certain measurement values, to the controller and switching outputs independently from the clock cycle. This increases process stability in complex situations, such as semiconductor manufacturing, where controllers process the signals from up to 120 digital and analog I/Os in real time. In such cases, automation solutions must simultaneously record, evaluate and react to numerous sensor signals as various process steps are carried out.
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