IO-Link is a low-cost, easy-to-implement communications system designed to simplify connections between large-scale fieldbus or industrial Ethernet networks and sensor or actuator devices located on the factory floor. On one side of an IO-Link master gateway device is an interface to the plant-wide network, while the other side has multiple point-to-point connections to individual sensor devices. The IO-Link interface for end devices is relatively simple, eliminating the need to support complex communications protocols at the sensor/actuator level. IO-Link supports a variety of data types, including measurement data, device configuration instructions and information about operating condition parameters such as temperature.
Multi-turn models have several exciting new features, including 16 bit resolution, the ability to output rotation speed directly to the controller and the addition of electronic cam/preset/reset functionality (making use of binary digital signals transmitted through Pin 2 of the connector). There are also extended device diagnostics. Temperature and vibration sensors built into multi-turn encoders enables monitoring these condition parameters. Rotation counters on multi-turn models are powered by energy harvested from the rotation of the device’s shaft, ensuring that the rotation count is always up to date – even when movements occur when power to the device is unavailable. This eliminates the need for backup batteries and helps to reduce maintenance costs.
Wide Variety, Easy to Select
Like other POSITAL IXARC encoders, the IO-Link connected sensors will be available with a wide range of housing materials, levels of environmental protection (up to IP69K), shaft type/diameter and mounting flanges. This means that customers can configure sensors that have exactly the right mechanical and performance characteristics for their application, quickly and at competitive costs.
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