B&R X20DS4387

4 IO-Link interfaces per moduleEach interface can be configured as a standard input or outputSeamless integration in POWERLINKSupports all transfer rates

IO-Link is a standardized communication system for connecting intelligent sensors and actuators in an automation system. The standardization includes electrical connection data as well as a digital communication protocol, which is used by the sensors and actuators in the automation system for data exchange. An IO-Link system consists of an IO-Link master and one or more IO-Link devices, i.e. sensors and actuators. The IO-Link master makes the interface available for higher level control and controls communication with the connected IO-Link devices. An IO-Link device is an intelligent sensor or actuator. With regard to IO-Link, “intelligent” means that a device possesses a series number or parameter data (sensitivity, switching delays or characteristic curves), which can be written to or read via the IO-Link protocol.Process optimizationThe use of intelligent sensors and actuators contributes to process optimization. Process optimization means that downtimes should be kept as short as possible. These consist mainly of standstills due to errors and setup times. Integrated communication down to the IO-Link devices offers many advantages in error diagnostics. Errors are detected much faster than before. If a sensor or actuator must be replaced, lengthy configuration work is no longer necessary after the change thanks to a potentiometer, or a configuration tool and laptop. After changing the sensor/actuator, the parameters are automatically transferred to the sensor. This parameter download is not only beneficial when errors occur. It can also be used for changing parameters when a load change is performed. This shortens setup times, making product changes and small batches more economical.Integrating IO-Link into the X20 SystemIO-Link is integrated in the X20 system using this digital module. All 4 channels are IO-Link interfaces, but can also be used as standard inputs or outputs. The specified 3-wire connections can be ideally implemented thanks to the X20 connector system with 12 terminal points per module. All specified transfer rates are also supported.POWERLINK integrationIO-Link doesn’t stop at the I/O module. It must be integrated in the higher-level bus system to fully utilize the benefits. When using POWERLINK, access is made possible via device description files in XML format.