IO-Link and Its Benefits

What is IO-Link?

IO-Link is a digital interface for bidirectional data communication between intelligent sensors or actuators and a control system. IO-Link is the first globally standardized (IEC61131-9) IO technology.

• All major automation product manufacturers use IO-Link technology, which ensures a wide selection.
• IO-Link is fieldbus-independent and can also transmit analog data.
• IO-Link sensors and standard sensors can be used together.
• IO-Link technology has many advantages over traditional I/O communication.

Read the latest information on the IO-Link organization's website

Advantages of IO-Link

• IO-Link sensor parameterization from a single location via the bus speeds up commissioning.
• Wiring uses the same M12 standard industrial cables as traditional I/O.
• Sensors are connected to the IO-Link Master, where parameters are stored. Replacing a faulty sensor is easy because the new sensor does not need reparameterization; parameters are automatically downloaded to the new sensor.
• Digital signal transmission eliminates D/A and A/D conversions and is also more accurate and faster than traditional analog transmission.
• Diagnostics: sensor error states and alarms can be detected remotely, speeding up troubleshooting.
• Each device can be assigned its own identifier (Application Specific Tag). When tools are changed, necessary adjustments can be made automatically.

What is needed for commissioning?

• Wiring
  • Bus cabling between the automation system (e.g., Siemens) and the Master unit
  • 3-wire cable between the Master unit and sensors
• Master unit
  • The Master unit connects IO-Link devices and the automation system
  • Monitors and controls I/O-Link devices
• Parameterization
  • Parameterization either from the sensor or remotely from the control system
  • Once the sensor is parameterized, a replacement does not require reparameterization