Features and Benefits

GE Fanuc Automation and GE Drive Systems developed an Ethernet

Global Data, or EGD, exchange for PLC and computer data in 1998.

Ethernet Global Data (EGD) offers versatility where a mix of control

devices requires cooperation with each other. This involves sharing

of information across the applications regardless of device or network

type, often at high speed, and with high reliability. High reliability

means fewer communication failures and having the ability to detect

failures upon occurrence. Particular emphasis is delivered for

applications requiring periodic or frequent updates and time

synchronization of devices. The protocol supports Unicast, Broadcast

and Multicast group messaging. Efficiency is based on the fact each

device on the network can produce these types of messages and

each device determines which of these messages to consume.