IO-Link

IO-Link is a new interface beneath the level of the field busses. It enables an intelligent communication between sensors/actuators, also of different manufacturers, with superior automation systems.

IO-Link offers the advantage that the interface specification leaves the integration in the automation environment open. Therefore integration in every field bus system is basically possible. The connection to the sensors and actuators takes place on the last meters due to point-to-point connection with cost-effective standard cables. Thereby, IO-Link contributes to the reduction of both interfaces and the multitude of variants as well as to cost savings.

Typical intelligent actuators and sensors are: controls for magnet valves and motors, optical, capacitive or inductive sensors.

IO-Link is already supported by a multitude of well-known manufacturers.

ELMOS works together with Renesas Electronics concerning the development and production of IO-Link products.

What does ELMOS offer?

Already since the beginning of 2007 ELMOS is an active player in the IO-Link consortium. ELMOS will offer transceiver solutions for device (slave) applications as well as multi-port master units.

An important success factor of IO-Link is to accomplish low systems costs. Depending on the application an optimised system partitioning must be achieved. Therefore ELMOS will offer a simple basic transceiver as well as so-called smart transceiver for device applications. ASIC solutions are possible for highly-integrated applications that contain - besides the IO-Link transceiver function - also e.g. signal evaluation and valve-/motor control.

Master electronic devices require own solutions with respect to the partitioning and electronic features. Therefore ELMOS develops a 4-Port master transceiver. Here you can find out more about the IO-Link-Transceiver (E981.10)