To promote the architectural and technological advances of the SynqNet motion network, Danaher Motion, Wood Dale, Ill., has established the SynqNet Interest Group at SynqNet.org as an educational resource for design engineers to maximize the capabilities of the SynqNet technology in their performance motion applications. Members have full access to online and downloadable SynqNet articles, case studies, and flash animations, quarterly eNewsletters on the latest SynqNet news and developments, invitations to annual SynqNet meetings, and direct e-mail access to SynqNet experts. Membership is free and is open to anyone interested in learning more about SynqNet.

Dean Onishi, SynqNet Communications Manager for Danaher Motion, says, "With more than 270,000 axes running worldwide, SynqNet is the most widely utilized motion network in operation today and growing rapidly. We established the SynqNet Interest Group to serve as an avenue of communication and education to help system and design engineers better understand the advantages of SynqNet system architecture and technology, and how it can help them build a better machine, faster, in performance motion control applications."

Onishi says the group also aims to ensure ease-of-use and interoperability across SynqNet products for OEMs and end-users.

The SynqNet motion network uses the industry standard IEE802.3 physical layer for robust electrical isolation and 100-m cable lengths with a deterministic protocol layer engineered by Danaher Motion. SynqNet was designed to meet demanding multi-axis motion applications and to address industry

trends towards interoperable, digital machinery. SynqNet gives machine designers an open platform to meet demands for system modularity, HotReplace machine service without downtime, remote diagnostics, software field upgrade, multi-vendor support, and fault-tolerant safety, according to company officials.