Inductive sensors get IO-Link

An IO-Link system can monitor the health and the status of a system: IO-Link turns sensor data into a digital data stream, analogue inputs are not required. By using what is still effectively high-resolution and linear analogue information, the user can now determine much more, such as the relative position of the sensor and its target.   

IO-Link can be used in the other direction to tell the device to act normally open or closed, or switch positive or negative, even to select and activate a time delay in the device. Individual sensors are electronically tagged and identified.

The new range is available in standard sizes of M12, M18, M30 and 40x40 cube, flush or non-flush, with excellent specifications -  as one would expect from ifm electronic, i.e. high IP ratings and a wide temperature range, all guaranteed for five years. Not only that, but these sensors are more versatile than conventional inductive sensors yet don’t need analogue input cards, only an IO-Link master to handle the communication.  IO-Link masters are becoming readily available, are easy to integrate into the control architecture, and cost a lot less than analogue inputs.