IO-Link has been hailed as the biggest revolution since the invention of the programmable logic controller. Emerson offers numerous accessories to support IO-Link installations, such as IO-Link enabled level and temperature transmitters, IO-Link software, IO-Link masters, IO-Link USB communicators, and supporting cables.
IO-Link Communication Protocol – What is it?
IO-Link is a powerful communication protocol based on the IEC 61131-9 standard that utilizes the established 3-wire sensor and actuator connection technology. It provides an open and manufacturer-independent method of communication that connects with any control level network, regardless of the protocol used.
Through this, basic devices also become digitally accessible by allowing three types of data to be exchanged: Process data, service data, and events.
How does IO-Link work?
As the diagram shows, an IO-Link system consists of an IO-Link sensor that provides measurements and transmits data to the IO-Link master, an IO-Link cable that is a standard unshielded 3- or 5- conductor cable with a maximum length of 20 meters, and an IO-Link master that establishes the connection between the IO-Link sensor and takes the sensor data up to the control level network. The system also includes an Engineering software that is used to set parameters for device settings, such as the Rosemount™ IO-link Assistant, which is used for parameter setting and overview of the operation.
Benefits of IO-Link technology
IO-Link technology is a fast, cost-effective communication that is easy to use, making it attractive for plant operators who want to integrate sensors into their systems and need to reduce downtime. It provides a way to harvest, analyse and display valuable data easily. These are some of its benefits:
- Cost savings: IO-Link provides a cost-effective way of installing numerous sensors onto one master.
- Data storage: Device parameter sets connected to an IO-Link master are automatically downloaded and reconfigured to a replacement device, saving both time and the risk of human error.
- Visibility through data: Through the IO-Link master, sensors become digital and communicate to the PLC, providing information on replacement needs, maintenance, or any device error, resulting in reduced downtime and optimized processes.
- Remote configuration and monitoring: Parameters and outputs/alerts can be monitored or adjusted remotely in real time to help quickly identify and resolve problems, and diagnostic alerts allow for preventative maintenance.
- Works everywhere: IO-Link is a vendor-independent technology with universal connectivity. This allows the use of IO-Link devices in any common industrial Fieldbus environment – regardless of protocol.
Rosemount IO-Link Sensors
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Rosemount 1408H Level Transmitter – Non-contacting Radar• Single-chip radar combining FMCW and 80 GHz technology • Compact form factor with full breadth of hygienic connections • Focused beam angle with no dead zones • Maintenance free, unaffected by process conditions • Conventional 4-20 mA output and IO link connectivity |
Rosemount 326L Level Transmitter – Guided Wave Radar• Compact form factor with full breadth of hygienic connections • Simple commissioning and configuration • Conventional 4-20 mA output and IO-link connectivity • Probe lengths from 5.9 in (150 mm) up to 78.7 in. (2000 mm) • Process Temperature: Up to 302°F (150°C) |
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Rosemount 326T Temperature Transmitter• Measuring Range: -58°F (-50°C) to 302°F (150°C) • Communication protocol: 4-20 mA, IO-Link • 4-digit LED display • Probe lengths from 1.18 in (30 mm) to 9.84 in (250 mm) |
Rosemount 327T Temperature Transmitter• Measuring Range: 13°F (-25°C) to 302°F (150°C); up to 320°F (160°C) for a maximum of 30 minutes • Integrated Temperature Drift diagnostic and sensor backup technology • Communication protocol: 4-20mA, Switch, IO-Link • Probe lengths from 1.3 in (33 mm) to 3.44 in (87.5 mm) |
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Learn more about the IO-Link technology and Rosemount’s offering in our Rosemount IO-Link Communication Flyer.
Read the Vega Brewery Case Study and learn more about how IO-Link technology helped them to reduce time spent on commissioning and configuring the Rosemount 1408H Level Transmitter
See Emerson’s Compact Hygienic Measurement Solutions for the Food & Beverage industry.
