OpenEtherCATsociety/SOEM
FreeSimple Open Source EtherCAT Master
FreeFree tier
About OpenEtherCATsociety/SOEM
SOEM (Simple Open EtherCAT Master) is an open source software library for developing EtherCAT MainDevices. Designed for real-time communication in embedded systems, its lightweight architecture minimizes resource consumption, making it suitable for environments with limited resources. SOEM supports both Linux and Windows systems. As a library rather than a standalone application, it provides flexibility and customization for developers implementing EtherCAT technology. The project is hosted on GitHub under the OpenEtherCATsociety organization, with documentation available at docs.rt-labs.com.
Key Features
Real-time communication in embedded systems
Lightweight architecture minimizing resource consumption
Cross-platform support for Linux and Windows
Library-based design for flexibility and customization
Open source with permissive license
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open source with permissive license
- Lightweight and suitable for resource-constrained systems
- Cross-platform support (Linux and Windows)
- Real-time capable for deterministic communication
- Active community and contributions welcome
Cons
- Requires integration into a larger application (not standalone)
- Learning curve for EtherCAT protocol and configuration
- Dependent on EtherCAT hardware for testing and deployment
- Limited documentation beyond basic references
Best For
Developing EtherCAT MainDevicesIndustrial automation and control systemsEmbedded systems requiring real-time fieldbus communicationPrototyping and research in motion control and robotics
FAQ
What is SOEM?
SOEM (Simple Open EtherCAT Master) is an open source software library for developing EtherCAT MainDevices, designed for real-time communication in embedded systems.
Is SOEM free to use?
Yes, SOEM is open source and released under a license. See the LICENSE.md file in the repository for specific terms.
What platforms does SOEM support?
SOEM can be utilized on both Linux and Windows systems.
Can SOEM be used in commercial products?
The license permits use in commercial products, but users should review the license terms and consider the Contributor License Agreement if contributing.