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
Connect Hardware: Wire SM8601 to AL1326 ports. Link AL1326 to CompactLogix via EtherNet/IP.
Studio 5000 Setup: Add AL1326 using AOP in Logix Designer. Map SM8601 data (flow, temperature) to tags.
HMI Configuration: In FactoryTalk View, create screens to display SM8601 data like flow rate or diagnostics from PLC tags.
Test Integration: Verify data flow; use acyclic commands to adjust SM8601 settings.
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
In our last project, schedule and quality were very good.�? Also, the coordination and help during installation was good.
Metro Sewer District
David, Senior Electrical Engineer
Would Recommend to Anyone
As far as the internal wiring of the enclosures, I did not find a single wiring error.�? That is very impressive considering the number of enclosures we ordered. I want to thank everyone for the great work.
Brewing Company
Steve, Project Manager
Excellent Customer Support
I receieved excellent customer support, and quickly. Thank you so much!
Oil and Gas
John Herman, Controls Engineer
Great Product.
We needed a simple, easy-to-install chemical addition and mixing control system. Started up without an issue. Our operators seem pleased with the outcome!
