What EtherCAT topology overviews are being used?

With EtherCAT applications, the topology is being determined by the machine structure, not the other way around.

In the conventional Ethernet systems, there are limitations on how many network devices can be used, thus limiting the overall topology.

EtherCAT eliminates the need for additional network devices, making it virtually limitless when it comes to the network topology. Any combination is possible with a nearly unlimited number of nodes.

Any of the nodes or network segments can be disconnected during an operation and then reconnected back - thanks to the Hot connect functionality.

There is a case where line topologies are being extended to a ring topology for cable redundancy reasons. To complete this, the master node only needs a second Ethernet port as well as the slave devices that are supporting the redundancy.