International standardization is driving the worldwide use of the communication solution, guaranteeing customers manufacturer-independent compatibility of all components. As a member of the IO-Link Consortium, Balluff was involved in its development.
International standardization successfully completed: the wireless communication system IO-Link Wireless has been IEC certified. In November, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) published the IEC 61139-3:2023 standard entitled „Industrial networks – Single-drop digital communication interface – Part 3: Wireless Extensions“. The task of the Geneva-based standards organization is the international standardization of the safety, efficiency, reliability, and interoperability of electrical, electronic, and information technologies.
With its international standardization, the IO-Link Wireless technology follows IO-Link and its extension IO-Link Safety. The communication standard enables a fieldbus-neutral point-to-point connection as well as wireless communication between sensor and automation system, which makes it an essential building block for the factory of the future.
Recognized the importance of IO-Link technology early on
“For Balluff, the international standardization of IO-Link Wireless is an important step to drive the use of this relatively new technology worldwide,” says Balluff Product Manager Ralf Kaptur. “We are elated that we were able to contribute to its development.” The sensor and automation specialist recognized the importance of IO-Link technology at an early stage and played an active role in shaping it. In 2006, Balluff was one of the founding members of the IO-Link Consortium. Serving as the IO-Link community, the close association of component manufacturers, automation companies, and end customers has been driving the continued development of the communication solution along with its adaptation into an IEC standard. The IO-Link variant IO-Link Wireless was introduced in 2018.
Innovating Automation
“The standardization including the test specification guarantees manufacturer-independent compatibility of all components. The IO-Link wireless system by Balluff, which is used wherever conventional data transmission is not possible or difficult, also complies with the international standard,” says Kaptur. “With our existing products, we have been able to gain extensive market experience since the launch in 2021. True to our claim of ‘innovating automation’, we will continue to be a competent partner in the future and guarantee our customers the necessary security and flexibility.”