VANGUARD VISION 

O-Link is needed because: - It closes the communication gaps at the lowest field level. - It renders machines and systems capable of validation right down to the lowest sensor and actuator level. - It minimizes interfaces (PNP, PushPull, 4-20 mA, 0-10 V, RS232, RS422 become IO-Link).

IO -Link is used predominantly in an industrial environment in automated production for linking sensors and actuators.

IO-Link is based on the familiar 3-conductor connection for a digital switching signal, in which the switching signal is issued as a serial telegram. This means additional information can be exchanged in the form of a serial protocol between the I/O level and the field device.

IO-Link is typically used in an automation environment below the I/O level for individual linking of field devices.

ny individual connection can be extended to a maximum of 20 m.

he typical signal transmission time for a value of up to 16 bits in length is 2 ms.

User data (e.g., analog values, switching states) are cyclically transmitted, configuration data (e.g., activation, deactivation of functions) and identification data (manufacturer identifier) typically during start-up and parameters (sensitivity, switching threshold) on a demand-driven basis.

This depends on the possibilities implemented by the manufacturer, but in general: - Local operation using teach-in, setting potentiometers, etc. - Event-driven program running using a connected controller. - Operator-driven program running, e.g. using an HMI interface. - Engineering system. - Installation of a sensor in a pre-planned automation station with stored basic sensor settings. This also enables dynamic changing of parameter settings. Automated new settings are also possible.

Standard PNP outputs or PushPull outputs.

Both device types can be operated on a mixed basis within one system.

In terms of wiring technology, everything remains the same. NPN sensors cannot be connected to IO-Link. All previously known communication structures in higher-level systems do not change.

Higher-level communication structures are generally bus systems. IO-Link is a point-to-point connection.

Standardized 3-wire connecting cables or single strands in the switch cabinet are used. No shielding is required.

No special IO-Link connectors or cables are required. The recommended minimum cross sections must be adhered to. For 20 m cable lengths the minimum cross section is 0.34 mm². As unshielded cables can be used, M8 and M12 standard connectors are certainly the most commonly used.

The transmission of safety-relevant data is not planned at present.

An IO-Link proximity switch (a switching output) can also be exchanged with a corresponding standard proximity switch. Automatic identification, reconfiguration and other communication capability-related functions are then not available. In this case, only the switching signal is transmitted.

The potential-free contact is achieved using pin 2 and pin 5. For this purpose, a 5-pin standard cable is to be used.