Choose protocol: Modbus/TCP vs EtherNet/IP for Subsystem X #3
Description
Context
Subsystem X requires deterministic comms to PLC for status/control. Teams have different assumptions, blocking ICD finalization and integration planning.
Options considered
A) Modbus/TCP
B) EtherNet/IP
C) Gateway/hybrid approach
Constraints (technical + facilities)
- Site network/VLAN/security approvals and segmentation requirements
- Vendor support/tooling and diagnostics
- Latency/throughput needs and determinism
- Maintainability for sustaining + service
Recommendation + why
Recommend EtherNet/IP for better vendor tooling/diagnostics and standardization with controls stack. Mitigation: start VLAN/security approval early and define fallback (temporary isolated network) if delayed.
Decision deadline
2026-01-10