New software tool from Balluff

IO-Link technology has long been established in industrial automation, and more and more IO-Link devices are in use in modern production sites. Thereby, IO-Link sensors have many functions and provide numerous valuable data.

In order for the functions to be used correctly in the application, the IO-Link devices must be parameterized and configured. "Appropriate software is required for quick and easy setup of the IO-Link sensors," knows Balluff Product Manager Heiko Mahr. That's where the new Balluff Engineering Tool (BET) comes in. "The more IO-Link devices there are in a plant, the more parameters have to be checked or even changed. Diagnosis and troubleshooting become more complex for each machine. This is exactly where our BET helps," explains Mahr. The new Balluff Engineering Tool facilitates vendor-independent and centralized set-up, parameterization, and diagnostics of the IO-Link devices via easy-to-use software. It provides an overview of the status of all IO-Link devices in the network and automatically sends notifications in the event of errors. The user can easily document the current status of the network and – without a programmable logic controller (PLC) – test inputs and outputs. "With BET, there is now a single software for all settings of IO-Link devices. This means that different software tools are no longer needed for the various tasks," says Mahr. "This saves time and costs in total – during setup, for updates and also for training employees."

In addition, device settings and IO-Link parameters can be saved and re-used with the Balluff Engineering Tool. This simplifies setup and helps with troubleshooting. "Furthermore, with the BET, the saved parameters can be restored during maintenance or service after replacing a device – this reduces maintenance times and increases system availability," explains Mahr.

The software tool can be installed on PC and laptop. Licensing is required for each device on which BET should be used to its full extent. Without this license, the software can be used with limited functions. The Balluff Engineering Tool is part of the Balluff Smart Automation and Monitoring System, which includes a wide range of components and software solutions for automating and monitoring the entire production line to enable standardized operation, configuration and diagnostics.

About the company Balluff

The success story of Balluff began exactly 100 years ago with the set up of a precision mechanics repair workshop in Neuhausen a. d. F. On the occasion of the 100-year anniversary, with 3600 employees worldwide, the global company stands for innovative technology, quality and cross-sector experience in industrial automation. As leading sensor and automation specialist, this family-owned company in its fourth generation offers a comprehensive portfolio of high-quality sensor, identification, network and software solutions. In 2019, the Balluff Group reported revenue of around EUR 469 million. With 38 subsidiaries and other representatives in a total of 68 countries, Balluff guarantees fast worldwide availability of the products and a high caliber of advice and service locally.