IO-Link Master
An IO-Link master is a gateway device that connects smart sensors and actuators (IO-Link devices) to an automation system, such as a PLC or a higher-level IT network.
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IO-Link Master Overview
The IO-Link Master is a rugged, industrial-grade gateway that bridges the gap between the field level and higher-level automation systems. It provides bidirectional digital communication with up to 8 or 16 sensors and actuators, translating their data into standard industrial protocols like PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and EtherCAT.
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Key Advantages
- Plug & Play Commissioning: Automatically upload configuration parameters to new devices. Replace faulty sensors in seconds without manual recalibration.
- Pure Digital Precision: Eliminate the noise and signal loss of traditional 4-20mA analog wiring. Get accurate, unshielded digital data over standard M12 cables.
- IIoT Ready (Y-Path Technology): Simultaneously send control data to your PLC and diagnostic data to the cloud via MQTT, JSON, or OPC UA without affecting machine cycle times.
- Advanced Diagnostics: Monitor device health, internal temperature, and signal quality in real-time to enable predictive maintenance and reduce unplanned downtime.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| IO-Link Ports | 4, 8, or 16 (Class A or Class B) |
| Protocols | PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP |
| Cycle Time | High-performance models as low as 400 µs |
| Transmission Rates | COM1 (4.8k), COM2 (38.4k), COM3 (230.4k baud) |
| Max. Cable Length | 20 meters (standard unshielded M12/M8) |
| Protection Rating | IP65, IP67, or IP69K for washdown environments |
| Supply Voltage | 20…30 V DC |
IFM IO-Link Master
- For connection of up to eight IO-Link devices
- Reliable transmission of machine data, process parameters and diagnostic data to the controller
- Simultaneous data exchange with the controller and the IT world
- Units for field applications and control cabinets
- With integrated fieldbus interface
The IO-Link masters for field applications are gateways for the connection of up to eight IO-Link devices including sensors, valves or binary input/output modules. On some versions offer ports that are designed as B ports and supply auxiliary energy for the connection of IO-Link actuators. The master transmits machine data, process parameters and diagnostic data to the controller. The product range includes interfaces to Profinet, EtherCat, Ethernet/IP, Profibus or AS-Interface.
Excellent electromagnetic stability, a wide temperature range, a high protection rating and a robust housing qualify the device for use in harsh industrial environments. The master with AS-Interface has quick mounting technology with a slide that locks the upper and lower part.
The IO-Link master for control cabinet installation features an integrated web server for configuration and diagnosis. It transmits machine data, process parameters and diagnostic data via Profinet or Ethernet/IP to the controller. To ensure that the data can be processed by IT and used at several factory locations or even worldwide, the device has a second Ethernet port with an integrated switch. This second port allows direct networking of all connected IO-Link devices with a local server using a parallel communication path called ‘Y path’. The integrated interface software LINERECORDER AGENT enables communication with the server.
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IFM Sensor
An ifm IO-Link Master is a hardware gateway that connects intelligent field devices—like sensors, actuators, and binary I/O modules—to a higher-level control system (such as a PLC) or an IT network.