SERCOS International (SI) announces that an open-source driver library for SERCOS lll realtime Ethernet communication is now available via the sourceforge.net online portal. The software can be used according to the LGPL license, without any fees or usage limitations. Two versions of the Open Source driver for SERCOS III boards are now available: a driver for plug-in cards with a dedicated CPU (active boards such as the SERCANS III board) and a driver for plug-in cards without a CPU (passive boards). By April 2010, the driver will be integrated into the mainline version of LINUX as well. For this, SI is cooperating with the Open Source Automation Development Lab (OSADL), an international cooperative that promotes and coordinates the usage of open-source software for machine and plant control systems.
