AiVibeIO-Link
IO-Link is a standardised point-to-point digital communication technology (IEC 61131-9) that connects sensors and actuators to an IO-Link master using standard unshielded cables, adding parameterisation, diagnostics and process data to simple devices.
An IO-Link master has ports, typically M12 connectors, each connecting one device over a standard unshielded sensor cable of up to 20 metres. The master and device exchange cyclic process data, on-request parameter data and events such as warnings. Each device is described by an IO Device Description (IODD) file that tells engineering tools its parameters and data structures. The master connects upwards to the controller through fieldbuses or industrial Ethernet such as PROFINET, EtherNet/IP or EtherCAT, or to IT systems through protocols such as OPC UA or MQTT.
IO-Link turns conventional sensors into smart devices: a pressure sensor can report its value, temperature, operating hours and diagnostic status rather than just a switching output. Devices can be configured remotely, and parameters stored in the master allow a replacement device to be configured automatically after a swap. It is widely used for sensors, valve terminals, indicator lights and RFID readers.
IO-Link is not a fieldbus but a point-to-point link beneath one, and it is compatible with standard digital I/O, since an IO-Link port can operate in standard input or output mode. Its COM1, COM2 and COM3 transmission rates suit sensor data rather than high-speed motion. IO-Link Wireless extends the concept to radio, and IO-Link Safety adds safety-related communication.
Key points
- Point-to-point sensor and actuator interface standardised as IEC 61131-9
- Uses standard unshielded cables of up to 20 metres
- IODD files describe each device's parameters and data
- Parameter storage lets replacement devices configure automatically
- Ports can also operate as standard digital inputs or outputs
Where AiVibe comes in
AiVibe designs and manufactures the AiAmbA AI Factory, whose edge devices and AI agents let people talk to PLC, CNC and robot controllers in plain language. Agents only propose changes, a trained operator confirms each one, and the AI Factory never replaces a machine's control or safety systems.
Related terms
- Discrete I/O (Digital Inputs and Outputs)PLC & Industrial Control
- Remote I/O (Distributed I/O)PLC & Industrial Control
- FieldbusPLC & Industrial Control
- PROFINETPLC & Industrial Control
- OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA)Industrial IoT & Edge
- MQTTIndustrial IoT & Edge