Before you connect the NI 9145 to an NI master controller, you must setup and connect the NI master controller to a network. Refer to your master controller documentation for setup information.
NI recommends that you install a private network segment for your deterministic Ethernet expansion devices. Slave devices cause network flooding on a standard network. Non-EtherCAT frames jeopardize the system performance and determinism on an EtherCAT network. Refer to the EtherCAT Technology Group Web site at www.ethercat.org for more information.

What to Use

  • NI 9145
  • NI Master Controller[1]1 For supported NI master controllers, visit ni.com/r/ecatmaster.
  • Category 5 Ethernet Cable
    Note To prevent data loss and to maintain the integrity of your EtherCAT installation, do not use a CAT-5 Ethernet cable longer than 100 m. NI recommends using a CAT-5 or better shielded twisted-pair Ethernet cable

What to Do

Connect the NI 9145 to the NI master controller as shown in the following figure.

Figure 5. Connecting to an NI Master Controller


Tip Use the OUT port on the NI 9145 to connect additional slave chassis.
Note NI recommends downloading the latest version of the firmware to the NI 9145 before deploying your system. Each firmware release expands module support and ensures compatibility with the most recent version of the NI EtherCAT driver.

1 For supported NI master controllers, visit ni.com/r/ecatmaster.