DeviceNet is mainly used in factory automation as a communication network between industrial I/O devices and controllers (such as limit switches, photoelectric sensors, valve manifolds, motor starters, process sensors, bar code readers, variable frequency drives, panel displays and operator interfaces).
DeviceNet defines the media, physical, data link, and application layers of the ISO OSI layer model. On the lower layers (OSI layer 1 to 4) DeviceNet essentially uses the CAN specifications with some constraints and extensions. On the upper layers (OSI layer 5 to 7) DeviceNet uses the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP), which is specified by the ODVA.
DeviceNet uses the CAN data frame for information exchange. Only the 11-bit CAN identifier is used. DeviceNet incorporates a connection-based network. The basic used messages are explicit and implicit messages. Explicit messages require a response from another device. They are typically used for configurations and for collection of non-time sensitive data. Implicit messages transmit the real-time data over the network.

For more information see the ODVA website.

DeviceNet conformance testing

ODVA offers the service of an official test laboratory, where devices owning a DeviceNet interface can be certified. ODVA offers a software tool, which enables device manufacturers to test their DeviceNet implementations by themselves. The rules and regulations for testing of DeviceNet products are provided by ODVA.

For more information see the ODVA website.