With the new remote I/O devices, LAPP is now closing a gap in the automation pyramid. These are active components that are ideal for decentralised use, i.e. outside the control cabinet.

Decentralised in use

IO-Link is a standardised communication system that was specially developed for the integration of sensors and actuators in automation systems. It enables a point-to-point connection between an IO-Link device (e.g. a sensor) and an IO-Link master and allows decentralised acquisition and control of process data by connecting sensors and actuators to the control system via a bus interface. IO-Link enables the bidirectional exchange of process data and parameters for configuring sensors and actuators. In addition, event and diagnostic data is transmitted to provide feedback on faults or additional information.

Ideal for conveyor systems

Another advantage: The remote I/O devices significantly reduce the wiring effort and therefore save time, money and labour. Conveyor lines in intralogistics are a typical application. Numerous sensors and actuators are required to ensure that the kilometre-long conveyor systems function smoothly in order to transport goods quickly and safely. Without remote I/O devices, cabling at field level would be complex, expensive and prone to errors.

Many protocol options

"Together with our M12 cable assemblies, sensor-actuator assemblies and Ethernet patch cables, the new remote I/O devices form a perfect overall solution for interlinked systems," says Jürgen Greger, Product Manager Industrial Communication at LAPP. With the remote I/O devices, LAPP enables bidirectional communication up to field level. The new portfolio includes the IO-Link masters UNITRONIC^® ACCESS MP08 IOL and UNITRONIC^® ACCESS SP08 IOL as well as the IO-Link hub UNITRONIC^® ACCESS HUB08 IOL with globally standardised IO-Link technology. This allows digital sensors and actuators to be conveniently integrated into the IO-Link network. IO-Link also allows extended diagnostics of sensors and actuators and facilitates the commissioning and replacement of IO-Link devices thanks to plug-and-play.

A special feature is the wide range of functions and protocol options. The IO-Link master (single protocol), the IO-Link master (multi-protocol) and the IO-Link hub all support IO-Link. The single protocol and multi-protocol variants are available for the Industrial Ethernet protocols PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP and CC-Link IE, depending on the article. The respective protocol is set using a rotary coding switch.

Made in Germany

The IO-Link master and the digital module are configured via a web interface. The IO-Link hub is set up using the IO-Link master. Both shielded and unshielded standard cables can be used for IO-Link communication. The maximum length is 20 metres.

Jürgen Greger summarises: "Compared to Ethernet communication, IO-Link is more cost-effective and easier to integrate. What’s more, our remote I/O devices are produced in Germany. This guarantees quality made in Germany."

By the way: The digital module UNITRONIC^® ACCESS MP08 DIO is available for applications that do not require IO-Link technology.