What to do if there is no network card chip in the industrial control machine

If an industrial computer does not have a network card chip, it means that it cannot make a direct network connection. To solve this problem, you can consider the following methods:

1. Use an external USB network card

Description: An external USB NIC is a plug-and-play device that can be connected to an ICPC via a USB port to provide network connectivity. Generally speaking, this solution is simple and low cost.

Pros: Easy to use, no complex setup required, good compatibility.

Disadvantages: It may occupy one USB port and the transmission rate may be lower than the built-in NIC.

2. Installation of PCIe or Mini PCIe NICs

Description: If there is a free PCIe or Mini PCIe slot in the computer, you can purchase and install a corresponding network card. This solution can provide a stable network connection and is suitable for scenarios that require high network performance.

Pros: Better network performance for long-term use.

Disadvantage: You need to open the chassis of the industrial computer to install it, which may require some experience in hardware operation.

3. Use serial port to Ethernet device

Description: Some industrial controllers are equipped with RS-232 or RS-485 serial ports. You can use a serial-to-Ethernet device to convert the serial port to a network interface. This method is suitable for old or special industrial controllers.

Advantages: Utilizes the existing interface to achieve network connectivity, suitable for specific applications.

Disadvantage: Lower transmission rate and complicated configuration. 4.

4. Adding a Network Interface via USB Docking Station

Description: If the industrial computer supports USB docking station, you can provide additional network card interface or even multiple network interfaces through the docking station.

Pros: Strong expansion capability, can add multiple interfaces at the same time.

Cons: Higher cost, may require external power support.

5. Using a Wireless NIC

Description: If the environment of the industrial computer allows the use of wireless network, you can use USB wireless network card or PCIe wireless network card to realize Wi-Fi connection.

Pros: Avoids wiring trouble, more mobility.

Cons: Wireless connection may not be as stable as wired network, especially in industrial environment.

6. Sharing network through other devices

Description: If the ICPC is connected to other devices (e.g. laptop, router), the network sharing function of these devices can provide network connection for the ICPC.

Pros: There is no need to purchase additional network card equipment.

Disadvantage: The network performance depends on the shared devices, and the configuration may be complicated.

7. Use other interfaces on the machine to connect to the network.

Description: Some industrial controllers may be equipped with special interfaces, such as fiber optic interfaces or industrial Ethernet interfaces. These interfaces can be used to connect to the network.

Advantage: It is possible to fully utilize existing hardware resources.

Disadvantage: Requires the purchase of a network device that matches the interface.

Depending on the specific model of the ICPC, the interface and the usage environment, choose the most suitable method to solve the problem of no NIC chip.