Industrial communication

Industrial communication

The actuator-sensor interface (AS-i) is a manufacturer-independent standard for the connection of actuators and sensors of the first field level. AS-Interface has become established as an economic wiring system in industrial automation.
A two-wire flat cable transmits data and energy. This considerably reduces wiring complexity since conventional parallel wiring of each sensor or actuator to the controller is no longer necessary. It also saves the user a great number of terminals, splitter boxes, input/output cards and cable lines.
AS-i gateways with integrated PLC function control the data exchange to the sensor/actuator level and communicate rapidly with the superior control level. They can be used as independent, decentralised controllers or as gateways to all common fieldbus systems. The range includes interfaces with EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, EtherCAT or CANopen.
The decentralised AS-Interface I/O modules connect binary and analogue sensors and actuators to the gateway or PLC via AS-Interface.
Connection of the two-wire flat cable by means of insulation displacement technology ensures reverse polarity protection. Sensors and actuators are connected via proven, robust connectors.

Read more about what AS-i technology is and how it works.