Why IO-Link’s learning curve can be worth the effort

DigiKey’s Eric Halvorson talks cabling, protocols and functionality for data communication

Mike Bacidore

July 25, 2024

3 min read

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Eric Halvorson is senior marketing technology manager—automation & control for DigiKey.

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What are the advantages of IO-Link in terms of diagnostics?

Eric Halvorson, senior marketing technology manager—automation & control, DigiKey: In terms of diagnostics, IO-Link provides users with both real-time data and historical data. Combining that information, users can see each individual sensor and not only look at the data it is providing but also how well the sensor is performing. This information lets users know when a sensor may be failing and allows them to quickly diagnose the problem, repair or replace the sensor and significantly reduce downtime.

How does IO-Link handle multi-sensor devices? Can I configure and access data from individual sensors within a single IO-Link device?

Eric Halvorson, senior marketing technology manager—automation & control at DigiKey

Eric Halvorson, senior marketing technology manager—automation & control, DigiKey: One great advantage of IO-Link is the ability to see, configure and monitor each device separately. It is a point-to-point protocol rather than a fieldbus protocol. This means each sensor or device is set up individually and assigned an I/O device description (IODD) file. This helps to identify the device and its capabilities. Another great feature is that this can be done remotely rather than on-site at the sensor or device. Beyond that, if a sensor needs to be replaced, there is a feature known as auto-device replacement that imports the data and settings of the old sensor to the new sensor, reducing replacement time and potential downtime for the line.

What cable topology options are available with IO-Link? Can I use daisy-chain connections, or is a dedicated point-to-point connection required for each device?

Eric Halvorson, senior marketing technology manager—automation & control, DigiKey: Since IO-Link is a point-to-point protocol, each device does need its own connection to the IO-Link Master to enable communication, as well as its own unique IODD. Cabling topology consists of M5, M8 or M12 connectors designed for IO-Link-enabled devices.

How does IO-Link integrate with different fieldbus protocols commonly used in automation systems?

Eric Halvorson, senior marketing technology manager—automation & control, DigiKey: Due to its fieldbus neutrality, the IO-Link protocol works very well with just about any fieldbus, including Profibus, Profinet, EtherCAT, SeRCoS, Modbus and many others. Each IO-Link device has its own IODD, making this neutrality possible.

What are the cost implications of implementing IO-Link compared to traditional wiring methods? Is the upfront cost of IO-Link devices offset by long-term benefits like reduced wiring complexity and improved diagnostics?

Eric Halvorson, senior marketing technology manager—automation & control, DigiKey: Due to the simplicity of the wiring required by IO-Link devices, the cost savings are great. Time to wire is reduced significantly since you are no longer required to utilize three-wire standard cabling with multiple parallel wiring. Additionally, IO-Link no longer requires shielded cable for analog signals. Instead, it uses standard sensor cables such as M8s or M12s.

Anything else that you'd like to add about IO-Link?

Eric Halvorson, senior marketing technology manager—automation & control, DigiKey: Adoption of IO-Link by new users can be time-consuming. There is a learning curve to its overall incorporation. However, despite these concerns, the level of functionality gained from employing the technology, coupled with the overall cost savings, makes IO-Link a great option to enable communication with every aspect of your automation application.

About the Author

Mike Bacidore

Editor in Chief

Mike Bacidore is chief editor of Control Design and has been an integral part of the Endeavor Business Media editorial team since 2007. Previously, he was editorial director at Hughes Communications and a portfolio manager of the human resources and labor law areas at Wolters Kluwer. Bacidore holds a BA from the University of Illinois and an MBA from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. He is an award-winning columnist, earning multiple regional and national awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors. He may be reached at [email protected]