4 Advantages of IO-Link

IO-Link is an open standard, serial communication protocol that allows for the bi-directional exchange of data from sensors and devices that support IO-Link and are connected to a master. More and more devices are being offered with IO-Link so let’s review a few of its advantages.

Increased Data availability

Data availability is a powerful advantage of IO link. There are three primary data types made available via IO-Link communication, which are categorized as either cyclic data which is data that’s automatically transmitted on a regular basis, or acyclic data which is data that's transmitted as needed or upon request.

Process Data:
Refers to the information that the device reads and transmits to the master—such as the distance reading on a laser measurement sensor. It can also refer to information transmitted to the device from the master such as messages sent to a light indicating which colors should be illuminated. Process Data is transmitted cyclically in a defined data frame.

Device Data:
Refers to information about the device itself such as sensor parameter values, device descriptions, etc. Device data can be both written to the device or read from the device acyclically.

Event Data:
Refers to notifications such as error messages or maintenance warnings like the device overheating or the sensor’s lens is dirty. Event data is transmitted Acyclicallly from the IO-Link device to the master.

Remote Configuration and Monitoring

With IO-Link, users can read and change device parameters through the control system software, enabling fast configuration and commissioning. You no longer have to worry about accessing sensors buried inside equipment or enclosures. IO-Link allows operators a simple means of changing parameters on the fly for a product change over for example.

Simple Device replacement

IO-link’s data storage capability allows data to be stored in an IO link master like this one from Turck. Let’s say your sensor gets damaged. Anyone can simply swap out the damaged sensor for a new one right out of the box, and the automated parameter reassignment will import the existing parameters into the new device seamlessly.

Extended Diagnostics

IO-link allows users to see real-time errors and the health status of each device. This gives you valuable insight into not only what the device is doing, but also how well the device is performing. Extended diagnostics allow you to identify when a device, like a sensor, is malfunctioning and diagnose the problem without shutting down your line or machine.

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