The MVI69-EGD Ethernet Global Data (EGD) module can be used to interface

many different protocols with EGD devices. The EGD driver supports both the

producer/consumer service port (18246) and the command service port (7937)

using the UDP protocol over an IP network. The user defines the data to be

produced and consumed in a configuration file downloaded to the module.

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 that each device on the network can produce

these types of messages and each device determines which of these

messages to consume.