New IO-Link couplers for contactless power and data transmission

Phoenix Contact is adding new IO-Link couplers to its portfolio for contactless power and data transmission. The innovative product enables contactless data exchange between IO-Link devices in existing automation systems and offers numerous advantages for users.

The new IO-Link couplers are characterised by their high degree of flexibility and easy handling. The couplers communicate power (≤18 W) and IO-Link data (≤230.4 kbps) across an air gap of up to 7 mm without the need for contact. Power transmission is inductive. Near-field communication via air gap does not require frequency planning or wireless technology expertise.

Due to the standardized IO-Link interface, the couplers can be used with all common IO-Link Class A devices. This not only simplifies commissioning, but also the maintenance and expansion of systems. Another advantage of IO-Link couplers is their robust design, which helps to ensure reliable operation even under demanding conditions.

Where conventional connection technology reaches its limits due to space and movement restrictions, vibrations, dust and dirt, rotation, and frequent contacting, the contactless power and data couplers enable devices to be supplied with power and IO-Link data in a wear-free and maintenance-free way. This technology can therefore replace wear-prone connections and slip rings in industrial applications while minimising costly outages. In the factory of the future, there will no longer be any physical connections in moving applications. Production downtimes due to bent or worn contacts are a thing of the past.