IO-Link Masters

Newest Additions!

• Balluff EtherNet/IP IO-Link master module
• Murrelektronik Premium EtherCAT IO-Link master module

The standard architecture of an IO-Link system consists of an IO-Link master and at least one IO-Link device. The IO-Link master module provides the gateway between intelligent IO-Link-capable devices and EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, OPC UA, or MQTT networks (depending on model). They can also be used with standard field I/O devices to transmit basic sensing/control data to/from a host controller. 

When used with IO-Link enabled devices, the master module will gather a wealth of operational data and convert it to an industry standard fieldbus or IIoT protocol for use by PLCs, corporate IT databases, cloud computing systems, etc. Operational data supplied by IO-Link systems could include: 

• Proximity sensors that transmit peak environmental variables
• Light sensor signals that include signal degradation warnings
• Flow meter data that contains media temperature 
• Cycle counts for each solenoid valve in a pneumatic process

These master modules also have integrated sensors that continuously provide channel status data (voltage, current, and temperature values) for both the individual ports as well as the entire module. This feature is extremely valuable for both condition monitoring and predictive maintenance.

IO-Link master modules feature:

• 8 IO-Link Class A/B master ports with true DIO functionality - one module for everything: 16 DI, 16 DIO, 16 DO, 8 IOL or any combination
• Simple installation using M12 or 7/8 power connections (depending on model) specifically designed for daisy-chaining several modules together
• Fully potted, machine-mountable, plastic housings that protect sensitive electronics from industrial and outdoor environments, or die-cast zinc nickel-plated housings for harsher environments - NO ENCLOSURE REQUIRED
• IP65, IP67 ratings
• Embedded web server for convenient access to module status, configuration, and diagnostics
• Select Balluff models featuring a screen interface for simplified IP, subnet mask, and gateway configuration without any software required, plus MQQT and REST API capabilites 

Easily integrate IO-Link master modules, hubs, and their connected sensors/actuators with AutomationDirect PLCs; tasks libraries available in the Productivity Suite programming software for even easier integration with Productivity PLCs

The STRIDE Basic and Balluff EtherNet/IP IO-Link master modules support EtherNet/IP (explicit and implicit) messaging.

The Murrelektronik Premium EtherNet/IP IO-Link master module supports EtherNet/IP (explicit and implicit) messaging, OPC UA, and MQTT for data transmission from the sensor direct to the cloud.

The Murrelektronik Premium EtherCAT IO-Link master module supports EtherCAT messaging, OPC UA, and MQTT (requires EoE (Ethernet over EtherCAT)).

IO-Link Master/Hub Overview