IO-Link Devices

Pepperl+Fuchs offers a wide range of intelligent sensors with an IO-Link interface. From photoelectric, ultrasonic and vibration sensors to rotary encoders and inductive positioning systems—all of these devices combine the advantages of IO‑Link and increase the efficiency of your plant processes. IO-Link permits the full intelligence of sensors and actuators to be utilized and allows transparent communication down to the last meter of the process. IO-Link devices transmit process and diagnostic data, communicate status information, and apply new parameter data. They form the foundation for the integrated networking of components, machines, and plants—at Pepperl+Fuchs, this is known as Sensorik4.0®. With the continuous expansion of the IO-Link portfolio, automation technology from Pepperl+Fuchs is paving the way for Industry 4.0.

From the planning stage to commissioning to maintenance—the non-proprietary standard interface proves its value at every step with transparency and cost savings. IO-Link enables the simultaneous digital transfer of switching information, data, and status information. The data can be evaluated locally at the sensor, centrally in the PLC, or in the IO-Link master.

IO-Link can also be used to access diagnostics and status information regarding the operating state of a sensor during operation, for example providing information about contamination or wear. This enables predictive maintenance to be performed, which helps avoid plant downtime. The localization function can be used to easily locate a sensor within a plant, allowing it to be repaired or replaced quickly. Intelligent parameter management allows parameters to be changed in seconds, and for replaced sensors to be automatically reconfigured with the previous parameters. Both the standardized IO device description file (IODD) for each IO-Link sensor and the application of standard operating concepts reduce the time required for installation and commissioning.

The international standard IO-Link interface (IEC 61131-9) reduces the diversity of interfaces on the market, thus reducing the number of control inputs required. Over the long term, this reduces planning and administrative costs while also increasing flexibility.