IO-Link
IO-Link is a manufacturer-independent communication interface for sensors and actuators. It facilitates the continuous, digital and standardised exchange of process data, diagnostic information and device settings, and can be seamlessly incorporated into existing automation systems.
IO-Link is a fieldbus-independent communication standard at the field level and provides a continuous cyclic (process data) and acyclic (parameters & diagnostics) data channel down to the smallest sensor and actuator.
The point-to-point interface allows cost-effective connection of intelligent devices at the lowest level of automation. Devices at this level used to be exclusively “on/off” devices, but are increasingly offering higher performance capabilities such as configuration during operation, higher resolutions, and Importe functions.
Users particularly appreciate the simple installation and parameterization of IO-Link as well as its fieldbus neutrality. Accordingly, IO-Link has been implemented in all commercially available fieldbus systems. This also applies to almost all well-known PLC manufacturers. The fieldbus-independent IO-Link standard is therefore the ideal solution for many companies that need to connect products to different systems and controllers worldwide. As part of the internationally recognized IEC 61131, IO-Link is assigned to control technology and not to fieldbuses (IEC 61158 or IEC 61784).
At the same time, the device description (IODD = IO Device Description) was standardized independently of fieldbus and system. Users can therefore rest assured that IO-Link provides them with a long-term, reliable, and internationally accepted solution that is binding for all control manufacturers.
IO-Link has experienced tremendous growth in recent years and continues to expand. In 2024, an additional 9.7 million new nodes were launched on the market, bringing the total number of IO-Link nodes to 61 million. IO-Link thus continues to successfully establish itself as a global standard.
Safety in automation is crucial for protecting people and machines from harm, ensuring safe operation, and increasing efficiency. With IO-Link Safety, it is now possible to expand machines and systems that work with IO-Link to include functionally safe components and communication.
To this end, failsafe (FS) masters have been added to the existing masters for IO-Link Safety, and FS devices have been added to the devices. The connection and transmission technologies of IO-Link can still be used as before. This makes it easy to implement safety functions. IO-Link Safety is standardized worldwide as IEC 61139-2 and certified by TÜV Süd.
You can find out more about IO-Link Safety at:
Cable reduction in industrial automation has always been an important issue in order to reduce installation costs or to transmit data streams more securely at critical points than with conventional solutions, such as slip rings. There is immense potential for savings, particularly in the cabling of sensors and actuators.
As a result, wireless communication systems in the form of radio data networks are increasingly finding their way into automation technology – including IO-Link Wireless.
IO-Link Wireless is a standard that has been specifically defined for factory automation. It offers a reliable, real-time capable, and deterministic protocol for control systems in industrial factory automation.
This extends the classic wired cables in industrial control applications with wireless transmission paths, increasing mobility and flexibility. The technology is primarily intended for field participants in factory automation who already communicate via IO-Link.
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The IODDfinder is a key tool for anyone working with IO-Link. It simplifies the manufacturer-independent search, selection, and integration of IO-Link devices, thereby contributing to more efficient and flexible automation.
The IODDfinder now lists more than 11,000 different devices, making it the world's largest database for sensors and actuators with IO-Link. This has made the IODDfinder a central tool for the IO-Link community and the best proof that IO-Link is being used in more and more applications.
The IODDviewer included in the IODDfinder provides direct access to device documentation and allows you to view and search the contents of an IODD directly in your browser without having to install additional software.
More about the IODDfinder at:
Welcome to the IO-Link Community!
The IO-Link Community has set itself the goal of continuously developing the IO-Link technology and successfully positioning it in the market.
With over 500 corporate members worldwide and more than 30,000 available products, we offer you an extensive network and a wide range of solutions for industry. Become part of this community and enjoy the full benefits of IO-Link membership, such as free access to all IO-Link specifications, use of the IO-Link trademark, access to valuable patents, and much more.
For more information about the benefits of membership and how easy it is to become a member of this strong community, visit: