EtherCAT ESI files

ESI files are XML-based descriptions used by Sysmac Studio to identify EtherCAT slaves, their PDO structure, supported features, and revision information.

Default directory:

C:\Program Files\OMRON\Sysmac Studio\IODeviceProfiles\EsiFiles\UserEsiFiles

Notes on ESI handling

When an ESI file is present in this directory, the corresponding device becomes available in the EtherCAT slave selection list.

After adding, removing, or modifying ESI files, Sysmac Studio should be restarted to ensure the changes are detected.

Ethernet/IP EDS files

EDS files describe Ethernet/IP devices, including supported assemblies, connection parameters, and configurable attributes.

Default directory:

C:\Program Files\OMRON\Sysmac Studio\IODeviceProfiles\EipConnection\Eds

Notes on EDS handling

EDS files stored in this directory are used when adding or configuring Ethernet/IP devices in Sysmac.

After adding, removing, or modifying EDS files, Sysmac Studio should be restarted to ensure the changes are detected.

IO-Link IODD Files

IODD (IO Device Description) files are used for IO-Link devices to describe device identity, parameters, process data, and diagnostic information. These files enable Sysmac Studio and associated IO-Link configuration tools to correctly recognize and parameterize IO-Link masters and connected devices.

Unlike ESI and EDS files, IODD files are not stored in a centralized, user-accessible directory within Sysmac Studio. Instead, IODD files are imported and managed as part of a DTM. IODD files can be added directly within Sysmac Studio or batch added/deleted using the IODD DTM Configurator.

The IODD DTM Configurator software can be found at this directory:

C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\IO-Link

There is no supported mechanism for exporting installed IODD files. As a result, IODD files must typically be backed up prior to importing to Sysmac or reacquired from the manufacturer when migrating projects to a new engineering PC.

Administrative permissions

The ESI and EDS directories reside under Program Files, so administrative privileges are typically required to add, delete, or modify files. 

Backup and maintenance recommendations

Before deleting or overwriting any ESI or EDS files, create a backup copy, especially when working with legacy equipment or older projects.

Consider maintaining a versioned archive of 3rd party vendor-supplied files so they can be restored if a device definition changes or is accidentally removed.

Avoid deleting OMRON-supplied files unless specifically instructed, as this may impact standard device support.