Basics of Automation

IO-Link

IO-Link – the USB interface for automation

As the degree of automation increased, so did the need for intelligent field devices.This resulted in a messy variety of interfaces with different mechanical and electrical characteristics Subsequently, the pressure for standardization became even greater. Using IO-Link, a collaboration amongst several companies aredeveloping the viable solution. Like USB in the PC world, IO-Link used in automation results in great simplification of installation while providing the capability for expanded diagnostics and parameter setting.

Before IO-Link the controller could communicate only up to the fieldbus devices. Communication up to the sensors and actuators wasn't possible. Only IO-Link makes sensors and actuators capable of communicating. Now devices can be parameterized centrally, diagnostics information can be sent from the device to the controller, and process data can be exchanged in digital form with high signal quality.

IO-Link – the USB interface for automation

IO-Link enables standardized and significantly simplified installation. Regardless of the complexity of the devices, plug-and-play allows them to always be connected using the same simple 3-conductor standard cable. The IO-Link Community founded in 2006, consisting of leading automation manufacturers, promotes IO-Link with the acronym ""USE"":

Universal – IO-Link is an international standard (IEC 61131-9)
Smart – IO-Link enables diagnostics and parameter setting of devices
Easy – IO-Link provides great simplification and cost reduction

IO-Link system components

The IO-Link-Master is the heart of the IO-Link installation. It communicates with the controller over the respective fieldbus as well as downward using IO-Link with the sensor/actuator level (gateway).

The IO-Link-capable intelligent sensors and actuators are connected directly to the IO-Link master via IO-Link. This enables the simplest installation, best signal quality, parameter setting and diagnostics.

The sensor/actuator hub exchanges signals with the binary and/or analog sensors and actuators and communicates via IO-Link with the IO-Link master.

Suitable Products:

8-port IO-Link master for Profinet for connecting up to 8 IO-Link devices

Selection of IO-Link capable intelligent sensors (here: Photoelectric distance sensor, pressure sensor, color sensor)

Selection of IO-Link capable intelligent actuators (here: Stack light and valve terminal connector)

Sensor/actuator hub for connecting binary and/or analog sensors and actuators

Topic overview

How IO-Link is revolutionizing binary detection of objects

Advantages offered by IO-Link in automated measuring

How IO-Link creates lean identification solutions

How IO-Link enables intelligent connection and networking in a machine