IO-Link

The IO-Link digital interface (standardized as IEC 61131-9) offers bidirectional communication between devices and control system.

An IO-Link system is made up of an IO-Link master (control) featuring one or more IO-Link connections and one or more IO-Link devices (for example rotary encoders or actuators). The standard defines both the characteristics of the electrical connection and the digital communication protocol.

Process security thanks to IO-Link

Bidirectional communication between devices and controls enables detailed, targeted remote diagnostics. Critical sensor status can be detected long before a system failure. IO-Link increases process security in industrial automation and enables timely maintenance, before costs spiral or serious damage occurs.

Device Description (IODD)

IO-Link supports automatic commissioning of devices. Each IO-Link device has a Device Description (IODD) that provides the control system with details of manufacturer, product number and functionality. This allows the control system to identify all devices and communicate correctly with them.

It is also possible to include further information such as an image of the device in the IODD. This allows fitters and maintenance engineers to recognize the relevant device at a glance. Application developers can download the IODDs of all registered IO-Link devices from the IO-Link website.