Integrate IO-Link Sensors with CompactLogix PLC

Need More Data from Your Sensors to Solve Tough Problems?

Traditional analog sensors limit visibility in industrial automation. IFM IO-Link sensors and AL1326 integration with CompactLogix unlock diagnostics, events, and process data. This setup outperforms standard analog sensors by providing real-time insights. Here’s how to set it up for superior monitoring.

What are IFM IO-Link Sensors and AL1326 Master?

IFM IO-Link sensors transmit digital data over a single cable, offering cyclic (process) data, acyclic (parameters), and events (diagnostics).  The AL1326 is an EtherNet/IP IO-Link master with 8 ports, robust for harsh environments, connecting up to eight devices.  Compared to analog, IO-Link saves ~50% on input cards, eliminates scaling/noise issues, and adds valuable contextual data for using in the PLC logic.

Advantages Over Standard Analog Sensors

• Rich Data Access: View flow, temperature, diagnostics, and errors—beyond analog’s basic signals.

• Cost Savings: No analog PLC cards needed, reducing hardware expenses.

• Simplified Wiring: Digital communication over one cable minimizes noise and complexity.

• Easy Maintenance: Remote parameterization and diagnostics cut downtime.

• IIoT Integration: Enables seamless PLC and HMI connectivity for advanced monitoring.

Example Sensor: SM8601 Sensor

The IFM SM8601 magnetic-inductive flow meter measures flow, consumption, and temperature with IO-Link.  Unlike analog sensors, it provides:

• Cyclic Data: Real-time volumetric flow (0.1–26.4 GPM), totalized volume, and media temperature.

• Acyclic Data: Sensor parameters like calibration settings or flow direction for remote configuration.

• Diagnostics: Device health, error codes (e.g., low flow), and event logs for predictive maintenance.

• Outputs: Configurable switching, analog, or pulse signals via IO-Link for flexible control.

How to Integrate with CompactLogix PLC and HMI

1. Connect Hardware: Wire SM8601 to AL1326 ports. Link AL1326 to CompactLogix via EtherNet/IP.

2. Studio 5000 Setup: Add AL1326 using AOP in Logix Designer. Map SM8601 data (flow, temperature) to tags.

3. HMI Configuration: In FactoryTalk View, create screens to display SM8601 data like flow rate or diagnostics from PLC tags.

4. Test Integration: Verify data flow; use acyclic commands to adjust SM8601 settings.

5. Monitor and Optimize: Use extended data for real-time control and maintenance.

Enhance Your Automation Today

IFM IO-Link sensors like SM8601 with AL1326 and CompactLogix deliver superior data visibility. Ready to upgrade? Learn more at IFM’s IO-Link Library website.  Let Automation Ready Panels help with your next IFM IO-Link enhanced automation project today!  Contact Us

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