IO-Link 1.1 Master Modules foster Industry 4.0 operations.

Press Release Summary:

IP67-rated X67DS438A, suited for use outside control cabinet, and IP20-rated X20DS438A use IO-Link 1.1 to communicate digitally with 4 intelligent field devices. While X20DS438A features 4 IO-Link channels that can be used as standard digital inputs or outputs, all 4 IO-Link channels of X67DS438A can also be operated in SIO mode if desired for use as simple digital inputs or outputs. Additionally, X67DS438A has 4 digital inputs that can be used independently of IO-Link channel configuration.

Original Press Release:

Covering the Final Stretch to Industry 4.0 with IO-Link 1.1

B&R introduces new master modules for digital communication

B&R is introducing two new master modules that each use IO-Link 1.1 to communicate digitally with four intelligent field devices: The X20DS438A with IP20 protection and the X67DS438A with IP67 protection for use outside the control cabinet.

The vision advanced by "Industry 4.0" – of workpieces moving independently through the production process and controlling their own production – can only be achieved by expanding sensor technology to make more meaningful data available. Even relatively simple sensors are increasing in intelligence, while digital parameter sets continue to take the place of adjustable potentiometers.

Intelligent connections
B&R has long relied on the IO-Link communication standard to cover the final stretch from the I/O module to individual sensors and actuators. This bidirectional digital communication interface is used in the field to exchange parameter data and diagnostic information, thus making it possible to intelligently integrate sensors and switching devices into the control level. This integration of end devices is greatly simplified by standardizing the communication technology used, just as managing parameters centrally makes it easier to exchange them. As such, IO-Link is the perfect complement to industrial real-time Ethernet POWERLINK technology.

Integrating IO-Link 1.1 in the B&R X20 system makes it easier to connect sensors while improving data consistency all the way down to the device level.

B&R company profile
As a global leader in industrial automation, B&R combines state-of-the-art technology with advanced engineering to provide customers in virtually every industry with complete solutions for machine and process automation, motion control, HMI and integrated safety technology. With industrial fieldbus communication standards like POWERLINK and openSAFETY as well as the powerful Automation Studio software development environment, B&R is constantly redefining the future of automation engineering.

B&R Industrial Automation, Inc. North America, based in Atlanta, GA, has been working closely with its customers since 1987. Since then, B&R North America has continuously grown as a sales and support organization through both direct sales offices and B&R’s unique Automation Partner distribution network. Today, B&R North America has a network of more than 25 offices throughout the USA and Canada and is there for its customers locally.   For more information, please visit www.br-automation.com