DeviceNet is defined as which of the following?

• A. Byte-wide network that can support 64 nodes and a maximum of 2048 field I/O devices.
• B. A network for audio signals.
• C. A network for data transmission in building automation.
• D. A protocol for high-speed video transfer.

Answer: (A)

DeviceNet is a CAN-based fieldbus used in industrial automation to carry small I/O data between sensors/actuators and a controller. Because it transmits in byte-sized data, it’s described as a byte-wide network. On a single DeviceNet network you can have up to 64 nodes and connect a large number of field I/O points—up to about 2048 devices—making it suitable for distributing I/O across many devices on the factory floor. This combination of a CAN-based backbone with byte-wide data and a high I/O capacity is why the statement about being a byte-wide network supporting 64 nodes and 2048 field I/O devices is the best fit. It isn’t designed for audio signal networks, building automation data networks, or high-speed video transfer, which are outside its intended use.