All set for automation with IO-Link

Standardized IO-Link technology (IEC 61131-9) makes communication with sensors and actuators simple and economical. The result of an evolutionary development, this low-cost connection technology with three or five conductors is used for point-to-point connection without complex wiring and with minimal material requirements.

What does IO-Link do?

IO-Link is a point-to-point communications interface which expands fieldbus and Industrial Ethernet systems. IO-Link allows you not only to transmit process data, but also to download parameter data from the control system to the sensor or actuator, and to send diagnostic data in the other direction to the control system. Whereas integrating a fieldbus interface all the way down to the lowest field level used to be very costly, digital or analog values can now be transmitted with only a simple 3- or 5-wire cable – with no special features in terms of screening, twisting, impedance or terminating resistance. The gateway between the fieldbus and one or more IO-Link devices is normally provided by a fieldbus module with multiple IO-Link master channels. In smaller machines or systems, which may not require a fieldbus because of their size, the PLC acts as the IO-Link master.

What are the key features of IO-Link?

  • Serial, bidirectional communication interface for sensors and actuators
  • Simplified commissioning of a wide range of devices based on standardized profiles
  • Point-to-point connection at field level with master-device communication
  • Can be used either for simple sensors or for very complex sensor-actuator combinations
  • One standard connection for measuring or switching sensors as well as for field devices with a mix of signals and data
  • Compatible with standard cables and connectors
  • Parameter assignment server function (data storage) for the fast and easy replacement of sensors and actuators. If an IO-Link device fails, the old settings are automatically transferred to the replacement device by the IO-Link master
  • Device description file IODD for easy parameterization on the PC with a graphical user interface: https://ioddfinder.io-link.com

Parameterisation made easy

Software-supported parameterisation of intelligent sensors and actuators via the IO-Link master makes it extremely easy to set and reassign parameters. All description files are stored in the central IODD finder database. The automatic parameter assignment server function (data storage) following device replacement is an especially convenient feature.

Less downtime, increased productivity

The comprehensive exchange of diagnostic and operational data between device and master systems speeds up troubleshooting and forms the basis for condition monitoring systems.

Safe investment thanks to standardization

An international, open and fieldbus-independent IO-Link standard supports existing and future connection concepts.

Easier to install

Uncomplicated wiring of the sensor-actuator combinations with standardized, unscreened cables reduces material costs, simplifies logistics and saves time.

Easier communication

More flexible communication thanks to standardization, from the control level to the field level, and compatible with Industry 4.0 host environments.

Simple Electric Solutions Using Simplified Motion Series (SMS) Axes with Distributed I/O CPX-AP-I

For simple control of remote I/O and IO-Link devices via fieldbus (EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, PROFINET, or Modbus TCP), use the CPX-AP-I distributed I/O solutions. In this video, the IO-Link master CPX-AP-I-4IOL is used to control multiple IO-Link devices via an EtherCAT fieldbus.

IO-Link benefits with Festo

Professional and consistent decentralization: the high-performance control and automation system CPX-E with 4-port IO-Link master module for IP20 installations. The flexible, compact, and lightweight remote I/O system CPX-AP-I with 4-port IO-Link master module for IP65/67 installations. The compact controller CECC with four IO-Link master ports. These solutions don’t just reduce the cost of installing and networking intelligent sensors and valve terminals. They also provide valuable diagnostic options.

Economical and efficient installation

Low-cost standard cables and IO-Link for valve terminals instead of multi-pin plugs allow simple, decentralized diagnostic messages and offer distinct technical advantages, such as more flexible installation, improved energy chain feed-through, and optimum adaptation to humid or particularly harsh ambient conditions.

Secure processes and data transmission

Proportional pressure regulators VPPM or vacuum generators OVEM connected to the IO-Link master do not need a screened analog cable, making the signal level less prone to interference. Parameterization and data storage take place in the IO-Link master (parameter assignment server function), so that devices can be restarted after replacement.

Easy integration of complex sensors

The uniform interface in IO-Link replaces individual sensor connections, e.g. with a mix of analog and digital signals. That means that even position transmitters SDAT and parameterizable pressure and flow sensors can be integrated and installed at low cost.

Secure: valve terminals with type B ports

Valve terminals from Festo have a galvanically isolated power supply to the electronics and valves. They communicate using the IO-Link V1.0 and V1.1 protocol and as type B port devices, they ensure that valves can be shut down securely after emergency off. Other IO-Link devices from Festo have a type A port and protocol V1.1.

The benefits of Industry 4.0 and IO-Link

All fieldbus/Ethernet, AS-Interface and IO-Link products are suitable for use as “contributors” in terms of Industry 4.0. IO-Link offers a clear and machine-readable data structure. Festo offers you a comprehensive IO-Link portfolio for integrated solutions from the mechanical system to the cloud.