New IO-Link Converter From WAGO Elevates Analog Integration
The new analog converter from WAGO helps users convert 4-20 mA analog signals into digital data that is transferable to upper-level communication systems via IO-Link.
With the onset of Industry 4.0, manufacturing and automation are more data-centered than ever before. The use of data from systems can help provide more accurate diagnostics, decrease downtime, and ensure accurate preventative maintenance regimens. Data can help manufacturers reach levels of efficiency previously unheard of, and potentially provide larger profit margins with reduced emissions and less waste from premature machine failure.
Smart Manufacturing Requires Data
But where does this data come from, and how is it utilized? More advanced modern manufacturing equipment often has industry 4.0 capabilities built directly into it, so a connection to upper-level control systems is easily achieved. What about old, legacy equipment? Some companies, such as WAGO, manufacture equipment capable of bridging the gap between the brownfield system and the modern manufacturing environment. The latest from WAGO includes a new IO-Link to analog converter for providing data to upper-level control systems.
WAGO’s New IO-Link Converter For Analog Signal Integration
Many data systems for modern manufacturing utilize an IO-Link connection to get the data from its place of origin safely to upper level control systems. In some cases, this data is then transmitted for international use and can be accessed anywhere on the globe with an internet connection. WAGO has recently released a new IO-Link converter capable of changing analog signals into usable data for smart factories.
The new analog to IO-Link converter from WAGO features an LED display for real-time readouts. Image used courtesy of WAGO
WAGO has worked to make the new device an economical and compact solution. They are designed to give users the ability to incorporate analog signals from actuators and sensors in the field, into digital communications networks. They work with any IO-Link capable system for easy integration. The analog to digital converters can be used to help update brownfield systems, directly control devices through the use of a setpoint or for analog conversion.
Features of Analog/IO-Link Converters
The converters can be used with any analog signal in the range of 4-20 mA for digital conversion. A digital display gives users a real-time readout for easy-to-read information on the status of a system. The converters utilize the common M12 connection, an industry standard, so most plants will already have the infrastructure available to utilize the connectors.
An IO-Link interface allows the parameters of the device to be set during operation and can be used to display process and diagnostic data. The converters can also be used as standalone devices without IO-Link. In this standalone mode, the unit can be used to switch outputs based on preset parameters that it continuously measures. It can also be used without IO-Link for parameterization through the use of a push ring or the use of a WAGO IO-Link configurator.
The converters are designed to operate effectively in different manufacturing environments and feature an IP67 rating, with an operating range of -20 to +60 °C.
Modern, Data-Driven Networks
As control technology evolves, we cannot replace either the entire field device network or the control network all in one single sweep. Therefore, solutions like WAGO’s analog to IO-Link adapter allow slower, more thoughtful migrations of technology to build stable, reliable industrial control systems.
