text.skipToContent text.skipToNavigation

O-Link Master with OPC UA Interface Enables Seamless Information Exchange from Field to Cloud

Plants, products, and systems are becoming increasingly networked. This has resulted in a major effort to set machine-to-machine (M2M) communication standards. In recent years, one such standard has already established itself on the market: OPC UA. This cross-vendor, open architecture is designed for information exchange in industrial communication. In addition to M2M communication, the technology supports data and information exchange between machines and higher-level systems in Industry 4.0 environments. Pepperl+Fuchs presents the world’s first IO-Link master with an OPC UA interface that combines the architecture’s benefits in one device.

ICE2/ICE3 Series IO-Link Masters​​​​​​​

Seamless Communication at Every Level

OPC UA, short for Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture, enables the platform-independent, interoperable, and cross-vendor collaboration of machines in production and makes communication between machines and systems possible—both in closed networks and via internet. OPC UA is more than just a communication protocol because the architecture also includes data models and interaction concepts. The interface is also scalable, which makes it suitable for both small- and large-scale infrastructures and supports use with mobile devices.
OPC UA is based on standards and guidelines that must be followed for compliant use of OPC UA communication. This way, the technology helps make processes in plants even more efficient while ensuring a seamless information exchange across all levels.


Your Solution for Cloud- and PLC-Based Systems

For the first time, Pepperl+Fuchs has incorporated OPC UA into IO-Link masters and is now introducing the ICE 2 (EtherNet/IP) and ICE3 (PROFINET) master series in addition to the ICE1 masters that are used for PLC-based systems and time-critical applications. Both new IO-Link master series come with an OPC UA interface and a real-time fieldbus protocol, making them an ideal solution for cloud-based applications that are less time-sensitive. With a completely web-based configuration concept that does not require additional software, they exemplify efficient commissioning and are an optimal solution for standalone applications with no superior PLC. All module settings can be saved as a separate file, so the configuration can be easily transferred to a new device (module cloning).
Simultaneous, interference-free communication via OPC UA and Ethernet-based fieldbus protocols also makes hybrid systems possible. In these cases, a PLC coordinates all time-sensitive applications and processes, while less time-sensitive, aggregated condition data is transferred to the cloud. Because of the MultiLink protocol, users can simultaneously access the device via the PLC and the cloud.


​​​​​​​Highlights of the IO-Link Masters with OPC UA Interface

  • Cross-vendor, platform-independent exchange of information (M2M communication)
  • Flexible solution for both cloud-based and hybrid systems with a combination of PLC and cloud
  • Completely web-based configuration concept for user-friendly commissioning
  • Module cloning function enables easy device replacement and plant expansion

You might also be interested in this:

Schneider Electric XIOT
The Internet of Things is the extension of the Internet to connected devices. Telemecanique Sensors offers a wireless solution to collect data from remote equipment and use this data, via the Internet, on a PC or mobile device. The XIOT Cloud connected switch from Telemecanique Sensors is based on low power wide area network technology, operated by Sigfox. The Sigfox network covers 32 countries and is already very extensive in Europe. It is also being rapidly deployed in the US and Asia-Pacific. It uses antennas with a range of around 50 km. The map on the Sigfox website shows exactly which areas are covered by the Network.
Read further
Pilz PSENOpt II
The second generation of light curtains, PSENopt II, provide safe access to the production process and provide finger, hand and body protection, depending on the requirement. The first Type 3 safety light curtains are specifically designed for applications up to PL d of EN/IEC 61496-1. Type 4 light curtains are also available for applications up to PL e in accordance with EN/IEC 61496-1/-2.
Read further
Phoenix Contact Axioline
The modular station communicates with a PROFINET controller, e.g., a distributed control system DCS, via a bus coupler. As an option, up to eight PROFIBUS PA segments can be connected to the individual proxy outlets in a compact way. To ensure the individual segments are immune to interference, appropriate shield connection technology is available.
Read further
Phoenix Contact ClipX
Control cabinet manufacturing is characterized by a high proportion of process costs. This is therefore an ideal starting point for improving profitability in the production of machines and systems.
Read further