EtherCAT Technology Group Distributes 4,000th EtherCAT Vendor ID

EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) Reaches Milestone with 4,000th Vendor ID Assignment

NUREMBERG, Germany – May 16, 2024 – The EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) has achieved a significant milestone with the assignment of the 4,000th EtherCAT Vendor ID. This accomplishment highlights the diverse range of manufacturers that utilize EtherCAT technology for their devices.

The EtherCAT Vendor ID is a crucial identifier for manufacturers of EtherCAT devices, allowing for unique identification and global recognition. Each EtherCAT device must have its own Vendor ID, which is assigned exclusively by the ETG. This ensures consistent interoperability and adherence to EtherCAT specifications, verified through testing with the official EtherCAT Conformance Test Tool.

Oliver Fels, the individual responsible for Vendor ID assignments at ETG, emphasized the importance of this process: “Every manufacturer of an EtherCAT device must be a member of the ETG and possess a valid Vendor ID. This ID must be integrated into every EtherCAT device before it is brought to market. End users, such as machine builders and system integrators, do not require a Vendor ID.”

Notably, the allocation of an EtherCAT Vendor ID is free of charge, as is membership to the ETG. This reflects the organization’s commitment to openness and accessibility within the industry. ETG members can easily apply for a Vendor ID online through the EtherCAT Technology Group website.

About EtherCAT Technology Group:
The EtherCAT Technology Group is a collaborative organization comprised of key user companies and automation suppliers dedicated to advancing EtherCAT technology. With a membership of over 7,600 individuals from 74 countries, the ETG is the largest fieldbus organization globally. Established in 2003, it continues to be the fastest-growing fieldbus organization in the industry.

About EtherCAT:
EtherCAT is a high-performance Industrial Ethernet technology known for its cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and flexible topology. Introduced in 2003, it has since become an international IEC standard and a SEMI standard. EtherCAT remains an open technology, allowing for widespread implementation and utilization across various applications.

As the ETG celebrates the distribution of its 4,000th Vendor ID, the organization reaffirms its commitment to driving innovation and collaboration within the EtherCAT community.