April 23, 2009 - B&R achieved an intelligent sensor/actuator by integrating IO Link in the X20 System. This is made possible by the X20 digital module DS4387. All four channels are IO Link channels, but can also be used as standard inputs or outputs. The specified 3-line connection can be ideally implemented thanks to the connector system with 12 terminal points per module that is only available with X20. All specified baud rates are also supported.
The unrivaled component density of X20 saves a considerable amount of space compared to conventional I/O systems.
Seamless integration of POWERLINK
IO Link doesn't stop at the I/O module. It must be integrated in the higher-level bus system to fully utilize the benefits. POWERLINK provides access via device description files in XML format.
Intelligent sensor/actuator connection
IO-Link is based on an intelligent point-to-point connection from the I/O module to a sensor or actuator. A simple 3-line connection for conventional wiring is used for connecting a conventional device to the controller’s IO-Link terminals. The channel runs in normal mode like before, simply digital.
IO-Link-capable end devices utilize the benefits of this system, e.g. for transferring parameter data or even for cyclic analog data communication.