Beckhoff integrates BACnet/IP as a pure software solution into its TwinCAT automation suite. The BACnet/IP Server and Client are executable on all Beckhoff Industrial PCs and Embedded PCs. This means that every Beckhoff Embedded PC becomes a BACnet controller with the software extension. Since the I/O level (Bus Terminals or EtherCAT Terminals) can be added directly to the modular Embedded PCs, Beckhoff’s comprehensive range of Bus Terminals with over 400 different signal types is also available for BACnet applications. In a modular system, for example, information can be queried via temperature measurement or an occupancy sensor and sent via the appropriate data output to the heating or lighting controller.

The BACnet solution for TwinCAT supports all services of a BBC device (BACnet Building Controller). The BACnet objects are created in the TwinCAT System Manager and can be parameterised and linked there. Data from an I/O terminal or from the TwinCAT program can be connected directly to a BACnet object via a cyclic interface. An acyclic interface is used for reading and writing the “properties” of a BACnet object, so that these can be accessed from the PLC program during runtime. With the aid of TwinCAT, a network can be scanned for BACnet devices and objects or “properties” can be accessed.

The market introduction of the BACnet/IP solution is expected to be in late 2010.

Please send readers' questions regarding “BACnet/IP” to: Beckhoff Automation GmbH, Eiserstraße 5, 33415 Verl, Germany Phone: +49 (0) 5246 963-0, Fax: +49 (0) 5246 963-198 e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., Internet: www.beckhoff.de