When it comes to connecting I/O in factory automation settings, there are many options one can choose to build an efficient and cost-effective system. This is one area where you can reduce costs while also boosting productivity.
Single Ended Cables and Hardwired I/O
It is common in the industry for single ended cables to be run from sensors to a controller input card in a centralized control cabinet. And while this method works, it can be costly for a number of reasons, including:
- Flying leads on single ended cables are time consuming to prepare and wire
- Wiring mistakes are often made leading to more time troubleshooting
- I/O Cards for PLCs are expensive
- Long cable runs to a centralized location add up quickly especially when dealing with analog devices which require expensive shielded cables
- Lack of scalability and diagnostics
Double Ended Cables and Networked I/O
Using double ended cables along with network I/O blocks allows for a cost-effective solution to distribute I/O and increase up time. There are numerous benefits that come along with this sort of architecture. Some of these benefits are:
- Reduced cabling — since I/O is distributed, only network cables need to be run back to the control cabinet reducing cost and cabinet size, and sensor cables are shortened since I/O blocks are machine mounted
- Quicker build time since standard wiring is less labor intensive
- Diagnostics allows for quicker trouble shooting, leading to lower maintenance costs and reduced downtime
IO-Link
Using IO-Link delivers all of the strengths of networked I/O as well as additional benefits:
- I/O Hubs allow for scalability
- Smart devices can be incorporated into your system
- Parameterization capability
- Increased diagnostics from intelligent devices
- Reduced costs and downtime
- Increased productivity
Inductive Coupling for non-contact connection
Many people are using inductive coupling technology to provide a non-contact connection for their devices. This method allows you to pass both power and signal across an air gap making it ideal for replacing slip rings or multi-pin connectors in many applications. This provides some great options for industry to gain benefits in these areas such as:
- Reduced wear since there is no physical connection
- Faster change over
- Reduced downtime due to the elimination of damaged connector pins
For more information on connectivity and I/O architecture solutions please visit www.balluff.com.
