Technical Popularization丨What is IO-Link

What is IO-Link

IO-Link is an open communication protocol specifically developed for sensors and actuators. Its unique design allows the transmission of 2 bytes of data within a 2-millisecond cycle through a channel that includes both binary status and data. In addition to transmitting process data, IO-Link also carries parameter configuration and diagnostic information, making the "last mile" communication between control systems and end devices smarter. Its standardized, modular architecture plays a crucial role in building smart factories and enabling industrial data interconnectivity.

In recent years, the adoption of IO-Link has grown rapidly. By September 2023, the number of device nodes supporting the IO-Link standard worldwide had exceeded 35 million, and this number continues to rise (data from Sensor Expert Network). As an essential component of digital factories, IO-Link not only reduces hardware and installation costs but also minimizes maintenance effort and system complexity, bringing significant economic benefits to equipment manufacturers and users in various industries.

The Value of IO-Link to Users

Standardized Interface for Seamless Brand Interchangeability

IO-Link is a fully open communication protocol, allowing various sensor and actuator manufacturers to develop products under the same standard. As a result, IO-Link devices from different brands can be seamlessly replaced, with a unified interface simplifying integration and replacement processes, providing users with higher flexibility and low-cost system maintenance.

Remote Configuration and Parameter Storage to Enhance Maintenance Efficiency

In process control applications, sensor calibration and parameter settings often require frequent adjustments. IO-Link sensors support remote parameter settings, and when replaced, there's no need to manually adjust the new device's parameters. The master station automatically reads and restores the original configuration, streamlining the replacement process and significantly reducing maintenance and downtime.

Cost Savings: High-Cost-Performance IO-Link Wiring Solutions

Compared to traditional IP67-rated bus or Ethernet I/O modules, the cost of an IO-Link solution is reduced by approximately 30%. IO-Link communication cables do not require special shielding and can use standard sensor cables. Additionally, IO-Link splitters can further expand connectivity, allowing an 8-channel master station to connect up to 256 I/O points, greatly enhancing the cost-effectiveness of wiring.

Digital Output to Reduce Analog-to-Digital Conversion Hardware Requirements

Traditional analog output sensors require analog-to-digital conversion for use in PLCs, whereas IO-Link sensors output digital signals directly, eliminating the need for additional analog input modules in PLCs. This simplifies system architecture, reduces hardware costs, and improves the stability and accuracy of data transmission.

Miniaturization and Interchangeability Support

Although digital output transmission is possible with traditional bus or Ethernet devices, they usually require larger couplers and come at a higher cost. In contrast, IO-Link supports sensor miniaturization and cross-brand compatibility, making it suitable for various devices such as absolute encoders, linear displacement sensors, laser distance meters, and electromagnetic flowmeters. These features enable widespread application of IO-Link across diverse industrial scenarios.

SENTINEL's Comprehensive IO-LINK Master Protocols

PROFINET

PROFINET is a widely used industrial Ethernet protocol known for its high real-time capabilities and reliable data transmission. By integrating IO-Link masters with PROFINET, efficient communication links are established, along with standardized interfaces for rapid sensor access and management.

EtherCAT

EtherCAT is renowned for its high real-time performance, widely applied in motion control and precision manufacturing where data transmission speed is critical. Integrating IO-Link masters with the EtherCAT network ensures synchronized data transmission and real-time responses.

Customer Support and Services

For more information on SENTINEL products, please contact sales representatives or call the company at 022-83726972. You can also visit the SENTINEL official website at www.sentinel-china.com. The website offers comprehensive product information, selection guides, CAD and Eplan files, as well as configuration files and tutorials to ensure users can easily access the information they need.