In recent years, IO-Link systems have become widespread within industrial automation. IO-Link is an open standard serial communication protocol that allows for the bi-directional exchange of data from IO-Link-supported sensors that are also connected through a master.
There are many advantages to using an IO-Link system, including standardized wiring, remote configuration, simple device replacement, advanced diagnostics, and increased data availability. Because IO-Link systems are open standard, the devices can be integrated in almost any fieldbus or automation system.
The IO-Link Master transmits data over various networks, fieldbuses, or backplane buses, making that data accessible for immediate action or long-term analysis via a controller such as a PLC or HMI. This gives users more information about their devices and enables remote monitoring of machine performance.
Together, the capabilities afforded by IO-Link result in reduced costs, increased process efficiency, and improved machine availability. These benefits are especially significant in applications that have frequent changeovers and are heavily influenced by extended and unplanned machine downtime.
IO-Link sensors do not require any special or complicated wiring. Rather, IO-Link sensors can be connected using cost-effective standard three-core cables. In addition, IO-Link also eliminates the need for analog sensors and reduces the variety of interfaces for sensors, which saves inventory costs.