Overview

The “TCP/UDP Realtime” Function (TF6311) offers direct access to network cards from the real-time environment. Access can be either from the PLC (61131-3) or C++.

The following protocols are supported:

• TCP/IP
• UDP/IP
• ARP / Ping

This section describes the concept of interfaces as API. An introduction is provided by means of sample programs.

Regardless of the protocol, the communication between the project using the protocol and TwinCAT is realized with a pair of interfaces:

• An Interface Pointer provides support for sending data and establishing connections etc.
• The implementation of a receiver interface provides feedback for the project in the form of events or data, based on callbacks.

The communication partner of these interface pairs is a “TCP/UDP RT” TcCom object, which is instantiated and configured with the network card.

• Depending on the protocol, the Quickstarts provide a good introduction.
• The configuration process is documented under Configuration.
• The interfaces are described in the Programmer’s reference and illustrated through samples.