AS-i now speaks moneo

With the introduction of the moneo-compatible AS‑i master, ifm now enables sensors using the widely adopted AS‑Interface to benefit from the full functionality of the moneo IIoT platform. It allows AS-i data to be displayed, linked and processed in the dashboard. As users would expect from moneo, the data is available for condition monitoring, alarm management and further in-depth analysis.

A range of application scenarios highlights the added value that the combination of AS‑i and moneo offers to industry as well as operators of critical infrastructure: In the food industry, for example, the closing times of hygienic valves can be monitored continuously. AS‑i emergency stop chains in manufacturing environments can be safeguarded by combining safe AS‑i controllers with the moneo dashboard. Further examples include monitoring photoelectric sensors along conveyor systems or supervising valve positions in water treatment plants.

Even prior to integration, the ifm AS‑i master family featured a dedicated IIoT port that simplifies connection to the moneo IIoT platform. The inputs and outputs of the AS‑i master can be displayed as instruments on the dashboard, trigger alarms and send notifications via email or directly to mobile devices. They can also be logically linked, analysed in time charts, or stored in the long-term data archive.

This new addition to the moneo portfolio expands the range of already integrated components – such as IO‑Link masters, mioty base stations and VSE vibration monitoring modules – by incorporating another widely used fieldbus system that has been globally standardised for decades and is deployed in countless projects.

AS‑i sensors are wired using the patented flat cable piercing technology. With this quick-wiring method, each device is equipped with two contact blades (known as “vampires”) that establish contact with the two-core bus cable. This technology allows devices to be connected in just a few seconds without the use of tools. For users, this significantly reduces installation time and effort compared to conventional terminal wiring. Data and power are transmitted via the yellow AS‑i cable. The direct connection to the control network is realised via standard fieldbus systems (including PROFINET, Modbus, EtherCAT and EtherNet/IP) – optionally with functional safety up to PL e or SIL 3. By integrating AS‑Interface into the moneo ecosystem, ifm has created a seamless and comprehensive data connectivity solution that includes both IO‑Link and AS‑i.