ICAPE Denmark A/S
Test banner
Subsystem referencedesigns inkluderer IO-Link

Subsystem referencedesigns inkluderer IO-Link

Maxim integrerer IO-Link teknologi i en proximity sensor og en 16-kanals digital-input hub (in english).

Two new subsystem reference designs from Maxim Integrated Products provide very accurate, low-power optical proximity sensing (MAXREFDES27#) and enhance distributed control with a compact digital-input hub (MAXREFDES36#).

Modern ’smart‘ manufacturing relies heavily on high-speed automation and superior sensing. With that comes an increased need for versatile and accurate proximity sensing—never an easy task - and more system sensor inputs. Both of these new space-saving subsystems integrate the IO-Link standard for industrial applications.

The MAXREFDES27# proximity sensor employs the IO-Link protocol to provide efficient two-way communication between a controller and a remote optical sensor. The MAXREFDES36# digital hub utilizes the IO-Link protocol to enhance distributed control, enabling 16 digital inputs to reside near binary sensors, thereby reducing expensive and bulky cabling at the PLC side and enabling higher DI density.

- Proximity sensing and distributed control are two critical elements of the industrial transformation. Utilizing IO-Link with an optical sensor makes for a low-power, versatile sensor. By reducing the number of wires running across the factory floor, the digital-input module lowers cable cost and simplifies maintenance. The MAXREFDES27# and MAXREFDES36# enable customers to create better industrial designs quickly, reduce cost, and improve the overall factory performance, says Reference Design Manager David Andeen.

MAXREFDES27# proximity sensor

The MAXREFDES27# IO-Link subsystem reference design lets operators tune and calibrate an optical proximity sensor with excellent accuracy, up to 14 bit resolution. Integrated DC-DC low-power conversion increases system efficiency. The design is tunable and can be calibrated for different surfaces and light levels:

• Highly integrated: board integrates the DC-DC converter, an IO-Link transceiver, the proximity sensor, and a Renesas RL78 microcontroller for improved efficiency, reliability, and system configurability.

• Ultra-low power: consumes only 150mW (typ); the lower power reduces heat dissipation, resulting in higher reliability and increased uptime.

• Robust IO-Link performance: provides self-configuration, efficient two-way communication between sensor and control module, and several protection mechanisms.

• Tiny form factor: entire design fits on an 8.2mm x 31.5mm printed circuit board (PCB).

MAXREFDES36# 16-channel digital hub

Industrial control typically has a rat’s nest of input wires running from various sensors to the digital-input module of the programmable logic controller (PLC). This conventional setup is difficult to troubleshoot and expensive to maintain.

The new MAXREFDES36# IO-Link subsystem merges 16 of these digital inputs into its hub and eliminates 15 cables connected to the PLC. It consumes only 235mW of power and is 60% smaller than current solutions. This space-saving digital hub lets manufacturers fit more digital inputs into each system controller. It simplifies operation complexity, reduces maintenance costs, stabilizes low-power consumption, and increases uptime. 

Mainfeatures include:

• High integration: DC-DC power converter, two 8-channel digital-input serializers, an IO-Link transceiver, a Renesas RL78 microcontroller on one board.

• Robust IO-link performance: provides self-configuration, short-circuit and shutdown protection, thermal warnings, and drive capability.

• Low power: consumes only 235mW (typ).

• Small size: 53.75mm x 72mm, fits in a standard DIN rail PCB holder and is 60% smaller than current solutions.

More information

21/8 2014