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  1. IO-Link benefits
  2. Product selection
  3. SolutionBlock IO-Link master

SolutionBlock IO-Link master

Welcome to the future of industrial automation.

Modern industry is facing ever-increasing demands: it requires powerful, flexible and compatible solutions that can be seamlessly integrated at both the OT and IT levels. ifm’s new IO-Link master SolutionBlock fulfils these demands with innovative technology and a wide range of functions specially developed for the challenges of Industry 4.0.

SolutionBlock in detail

SolutionBlock product benefits

Multi-protocol for PROFINET and EtherNet/IP

The integrated multi-protocol support significantly reduces the variety of articles for our customers. Thanks to its compatibility with PROFINET and EtherNet/IP, a single IO-Link master can be used in different networks, which reduces complexity and storage costs. This versatility makes it ideal for companies looking for flexible and scalable solutions.

Integrated OPC UA server

The built-in OPC UA server ensures smooth integration into existing IoT data structures. This open, manufacturer-independent communication platform enables standardised data exchange between different devices and systems. This increases the transparency of processes and creates the basis for predictive maintenance and data-based decisions.

IODD interpreter

The IODD interpreter enables the automatic evaluation and translation of sensor data. Process values such as temperature or flow rate are not output as raw data, but in comprehensible units such as °C or m³/h. This function saves time during integration and makes it easier to analyse the data.

Daisy chain functionality

The standardised M12 connection technology enables a simple daisy-chain connection for the power supply, fieldbus and IIoT communication. This means less cabling work, simpler integration and considerable cost savings. This function is a decisive advantage, particularly in extensive systems or in areas with limited space.

Security with OPC UA, MQTT(s) and HTTP(s)

Support for OPC UA, MQTT and a REST API in JSON format mean the IO-Link master offers flexible communication options for modern IIoT applications.

While OPC UA and MQTT are based on TCP/IP, the REST API enables data exchange via HTTP. JSON is a standardised data format for the structured transmission of information.

And the IO-Link master supports OPC UA, MQTTs and HTTPs, thus enabling secure data transmission. These protocols ensure that data is encrypted and protected against unauthorised access – a decisive advantage in an increasingly networked, security-conscious industrial environment. The IO-Link master thereby connects IT and OT worlds using the highest level of safety.

Data reduction through moneo

Many sensors provide large quantities of data that are not always required. moneo integration enables this data to be pre-processed and reduced. This minimises the load on networks and IT systems and ensures more efficient use of available resources.

Network Time Protocol (NTP)

By integrating the Network Time Protocol (NTP), the synchronisation of devices in the network is guaranteed to the millisecond. This is particularly crucial in time-critical applications in which the precise coordination of all system components is vital.

System overview

ifm SolutionBlock Y-path example

System connection

IO-Link master and SolutionBlock product comparison

AL13 AL15 – SolutionBlock AL14
Daisy chain functionality
For fieldbus
Daisy chain functionality
For the power supply, fieldbus and IIoT communication
Daisy chain functionality
For fieldbus and power supply
Power
A-coded M12, 3.9A (US)
Power
L-coded M12, 16A (US), 16A (UA)
Power
L-coded M12, 16A (US), 16A (UA)


Fieldbus
AL130x: PROFINET
AL132x: EtherNet/IP
AL133x: EtherCat
AL134x: Modbus TCP
AL135x: IIoT
AL137x: POWERLINK


Fieldbus
AL159x: Multi-protocol for
PROFINET and EtherNet/IP


Fieldbus
AL140x: PROFINET
AL142x: EtherNet/IP
AL143x: EtherCat
Output power
300mA
Output power
4A
Output power
2A
Input/output
16 configurable, 16 digital inputs, 8 digital outputs
Input/output
16 configurable, 12 digital
Input/output
16 configurable, 12 digital inputs/outputs
OPC UA server OPC UA server
Facilitates integration into IoT data structures
OPC UA server
MQTT/JSON
Additionally supports only HTTPs
MQTT/JSON
Also HTTPs/MQTTs for secure data transmission
MQTT/JSON
TLS encryption TLS encryption
For secure, encrypted data transmission
TLS encryption
IODD interpreter IODD-Interpreter
Processing of a variety of IODDs to convert sensor data into understandable information
IODD interpreter
Data reduction through moneo Data reduction
through moneo

Optimisation of data volume and network load
Data reduction through moneo
NTP support NTP support
Millisecond-precise time synchronisation for time-critical applications
NTP support
View AL13XX ➜

View AL1590 (coolant) ➜

View AL1591 (food) ➜

View AL14XX ➜

SolutionBlock FAQ