Ask the Expert

Over the next few weeks, we will be asking Rafael Calamari, Director of Automation, a few questions on IO-Link. Join us as we learn the ins and outs of this up and coming comminucation standard.

This week we are starting at square one, What is IO-Link?

IO-Link is an industrial communication standard for connecting sensors and actuators to industrial Ethernet or fieldbus networks. IO-Link is a serial, bi-directional and most importantly, point-to-point protocol. So don’t worry, this is not another fieldbus protocol. Each IO-Link capable sensor or actuator, also known as an IO-Link device, is individually connected to an IO-Link master, such as IMPACT67 PRO (with 8 IO-Link port)s from Murrelektronik. IO-Link devices have description files (known as IODD files), that include all their parameters, and can easily be configured from a computer after importing these IODD files to Murrelektronik’s free IO-Link Configuration Tool. IO-Link is the simplest way of exchanging data between controllers and peripherals. It is also the quickest way of collecting data for long-term analysis.”

So, what are you waiting for? Check out our brand-new IO-Link Masters and hubs online or contact your local sales representative for more information.