[AM437x] Do all models support EtherCAT?

Lars Heinrichs

Other Parts Discussed in Thread: AM4377, AM4379, AM3359

Hello everyone,

we are currently looking to add a coprocessor to offload an EtherCAT Master to separate chip in one of our systems and the AM437x processors might be a possible solution.
The Sitara AM4379 and AM4377 have "EtherCAT" listed in their "Industrial Protocols" section on the product overview, while the other models have not.

However, i cannot see any relevant differences between these two models and the other AM437x Models (the datasheet for all of them lists EtherCAT and and the necessary Real time units (PRU-ICSS).

Which models support EtherCAT?

thanks and regards,
Lars

over 5 years ago

0 Cvetolin Shulev-XID over 5 years ago

TI__Guru 65405 points

Hi Lars,

As you found on the product overview only AM4379 and AM4377 have support for "EtherCAT" of Sitara AM437x series. If you extend the Sitara processors range as searching for "EtherCAT" support AM3359, AM572x and AM571x will be recommended too.

Regards,
Tsvetolin Shulev

0 Lars Heinrichs over 5 years ago in reply to Cvetolin Shulev-XID

Intellectual 460 points

alright thank you very much. What is the difference between those models and the rest of the Sitaras?

0 Cvetolin Shulev-XID over 5 years ago in reply to Lars Heinrichs

TI__Guru 65405 points

The main difference between AM4379 and AM4377 is that AM4379 has graphic acceleration subsystem.
You can compare all AM437x device's parameters selecting display filters at:
www.ti.com/.../products.html

Regards,
Tsvetolin Shulev

0 Lars Heinrichs over 5 years ago in reply to Cvetolin Shulev-XID

Intellectual 460 points

Hello,

yes but that is not what i meant. i meant: why do some of the models in each sitara family support EtherCAT and the others do not, even tho i didnt see any difference about the PRU-ICSS unit or the processors in general?

Is there a document pointing towards the requirements needed for using EtherCAT? e.g. is external RAM necessary?

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[AM437x] Do all models support EtherCAT?