The EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) is delighted to commemorate its 20th anniversary of shaping the world of EtherCAT technology. From its modest origins with 33 founding members, the ETG has expanded into a global powerhouse, uniting members from various industries and promoting the use of EtherCAT in numerous applications.
Since its establishment, the ETG’s mission has remained clear: to advance and advocate for the worldwide use of EtherCAT technology, ensuring its accessibility and implementability for all. The group has successfully brought together a diverse community, encompassing machine builders, control technology suppliers, and end users from various sectors, making EtherCAT an ideal choice for a wide range of purposes. By incorporating valuable feedback from expert users, the ETG has facilitated the seamless integration and interoperability of hardware and software components across all device classes.
In a testament to its success, the ETG has experienced remarkable growth over the years, surpassing 1,000 members within the first five years, and currently boasting 7,500 members from 74 countries. The association continues to attract approximately 500 new members annually, underscoring the escalating significance of EtherCAT technology on a global scale.
Originally established in Nuremberg, the ETG has expanded its presence by establishing offices in the U.S., China, Japan, and South Korea. Additionally, the group has provided steadfast support to its members through workshops, development software, and technology implementation assistance. The EtherCAT Plugfests have also been an influential gathering, convening developers from around the world to test device interoperability.
Prioritizing safety and efficiency, the ETG introduced Safety over EtherCAT in 2005, meeting stringent safety standards and seamlessly integrating safety-critical communication into the system. The introduction of EtherCAT P and EtherCAT G has further broadened the application spectrum, enabling enhanced power and bandwidth capabilities while maintaining full backward compatibility.
In accordance with its dedication to establishing industry standards, EtherCAT and Safety over EtherCAT have achieved international and national recognition as official standards. Furthermore, the ETG has actively promoted EtherCAT technology through seminars, trade shows, and roadshows in over 50 countries, solidifying its status as a driving force in the world of industrial Ethernet technology.
As 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of EtherCAT technology, the ETG has reported impressive node figures, with nearly 60 million EtherCAT chips sold by the end of 2022, solidifying its position as one of the most widely used industrial Ethernet technologies in the world.
Through two decades of unwavering dedication, innovation, and collaboration, the ETG has firmly established itself as a pioneer in the realm of networking technology. As they celebrate this significant milestone, there is no doubt that the ETG’s influence will continue to shape the future of EtherCAT for many years to come.
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