Texas Instruments (TI) has introduced the TICS100MOD, a multiprotocol communications system-on-module (SoM) for Industrial Ethernet. TI describes it as the industry’s smallest fully featured, certified communications module. One hardware design supports EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP and PROFINET. Device makers can therefore connect to different PLC networks without a board redesign.
One module, three Industrial Ethernet protocols
Device manufacturers often need separate hardware variants for each fieldbus their customers use. The TICS100MOD addresses this problem. Engineers select the protocol at boot time through a firmware update, and the hardware stays the same. As a result, one product can serve EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP and PROFINET installations.
The module is built on the TI AM2612 microcontroller and the DP83826AI Ethernet PHY. It integrates two Arm Cortex-R5F cores and external memory. Real-time communication runs on TI’s PRU-ICSS, the programmable real-time unit and industrial communication subsystem of its MCUs and SoCs.
Key features of the TICS100MOD
- Certified, fully featured communications SoM
- Protocols: EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP and PROFINET on the same hardware
- Protocol selection at boot time via firmware, with no hardware redesign
- Two Arm Cortex-R5F cores plus integrated external memory
- Based on the AM2612 MCU and the DP83826AI Ethernet PHY
- Simultaneous real-time performance across multiple protocols
- Full MAC layer access for customised protocol implementations
TI has not published the module’s physical dimensions or pricing yet.
TIOM2212: dual-channel IO-Link master
TI also announced the TIOM2212, a dual-channel IO-Link master. It links field-level sensors and actuators to higher-level Industrial Ethernet networks. In addition, it combines advanced analog integration with built-in protection features and an integrated frame handler.
The TIOM2212 works with TI’s Sitara industrial networking SoC family and its AM13Ex real-time MCUs. With this device, TI’s IO-Link range now covers transceivers, digital output switches and a master. For more background on the technology, see our article on the IO-Link over SPE working group.
Development tools and availability
To speed up design work, TI offers an industrial communication SDK. It includes certified, production-ready protocol stacks, application examples, training material and development and troubleshooting tools. The TIOL221 evaluation module and an application brief (SBAA890) are also available.
- TICS100MOD: availability expected by the end of 2026
- TIOM2212: preproduction quantities available now on TI.com
TI will show both products at electronica 2026 in Munich, from 10 to 13 November. The booth is in Hall C4, stand 159. Find more trade show coverage under our electronica news.
Why it matters for device makers
For sensor, drive and I/O manufacturers, supporting several protocols usually means several board designs, certifications and stock items. A single certified module with firmware-selectable protocols reduces that effort. Moreover, the IO-Link master covers the path from the sensor to the Ethernet network with parts from one supplier.
SICK is one early user. Dr. Stefan Odermatt is senior vice president of R&D for integrated automation at SICK. According to him, TI’s Industrial Ethernet and IO-Link solutions help SICK bring products such as the SIG300 to market.
Product details are available on the TICS100MOD product page and the TIOM2212 IO-Link master page. You can follow all our Texas Instruments news as well.