Baumer sensors offer the best and most reliable sensor functions. With the IO-Link technology, the functions integrated directly in the sensor can be easily parameterized. Sensors are immediately ready to use and optimally adjusted to the respective application. IO-Link also makes it possible to transmit a wide range of additional information directly from the sensor to the OT world or IT world, making for more effective systems - your gateway to the digital factory.

What is IO-Link?

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  • A manufacturer-independent digital communication protocol/interface
  • IO-Link enables the bidirectional exchange of process data (measured values and status information), parameters for configuring the sensor, together with event and diagnostic data for feedback on faults or additional information
  • An IO-Link connection is always established between an IO-Link master and an IO-Link device (actuator & sensor)
  • Unshielded standard M8/12 cabling can still be used for IO-Link
  • The IO-Link master is the gateway for open connections to all fieldbuses and various IT protocols (IT/OT communication)
  • IO-Link is an open industry standard

IO-Link in practice


Advantages of IO-Link

IO-Link Benefits
  • Easy commissioning & fast sensor exchange

  • Diagnostic data for condition monitoring for optimized processes

  • Loss-free transmission of measured values thanks to digital communication

  • More sensor information for reliable control of systems & machines ​

  • Precise parameterization of sensor functions

  • Efficient engineering thanks to PC-based sensor tools


IO-Link function principle

Cycle time µs Cyclic transmission of process data

Cable length m Between IO-Link master & device

More than Members in the IO-Link Community

More than Mio devices sold & in use in the field

Backward compatibility

As explained in the section What is IO-Link?, IO-Link masters can also read in and output switching signals. All IO-Link devices can also be used as switching devices by default. This ensures backwards compatibility at all times.


IO-Link dual channel

The term "IO-Link dual channel" was coined by Baumer and refers to sensors that have additional switching or analog outputs alongside the IO-Link communication.  
Thanks to IO-Link dual channel, it is possible to operate very fast processes or existing analog interfaces and at the same time enjoy the benefits of IO-Link technology (e.g. parameterization, condition monitoring, etc.).

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IO-Link Community

IO-Link Logo

The IO-Link Community brings together more than 400 members worldwide. These members define the IO-Link standard and are continuously refining it. The latest standards include IO-Link Wireless and IO-Link Safety. Baumer is an active member not only of the Community, but also of the Steering Committee.

The logo on the left is used on all IO-Link devices so users can identify them with ease.

In addition, the IO-Link Community operates the IODD finder. The IODD (Input Output Device Description) is a file for describing IO-Link devices. PC-based tools, such as the Baumer Sensor Suite, can use this file to interpret and display IO-Link data independent of the manufacturer. This helps users to quickly understand IO-Link devices and set them up easily.


IO-Link Glossary

To the IO-Link glossary

IO-Link portfolio

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