- IO-Link — main page
- System overview
- IO-Link for IIoT
IO-Link in the IIoT
Industrial production is evolving rapidly – becoming increasingly networked, transparent, and efficient. But how does a traditional machine become an intelligent part of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)? The answer lies in a system that is open, standardised, and easy to integrate: IO-Link.
Your Machine. Your Data. Your Possibilities.
Combined with powerful software and modern communication protocols, IO-Link opens up entirely new possibilities for process optimisation, energy efficiency, and predictive maintenance – even for existing systems.
ifm's IO-Link masters are far more than just interfaces – they are true communication experts. They support the modern IIoT standard communication forms specified in the IO-Link standard:
MQTT
For fast, streamlined communication in both on-premises and cloud-based applications.
The IO-Link master sends the selected data to an MQTT broker at a defined time.
OPC UA
For structured, cross-platform data sharing with semantic information.
The IO-Link master provides an OPC UA server from which an OPC UA client can access all data and information at any time.
REST API
For easy connection to web applications and customer-specific solutions.
The IO-Link master can be accessed via HTTP requests with put/get commands.
This allows you to transfer your production data directly into dashboards, ERP systems, maintenance platforms, or analytics solutions – regardless of whether you rely on our IIoT platform moneo or third-party software in the cloud or on-premises solutions.
All IO-Link devices provide data and information such as process information, parameters, and diagnostic data in a standardised data model. Using the IODD (IO Device Description), downstream systems can interpret the data automatically or manually. The IO-Link standard, or IODD, makes the sensor data machine-readable and enables true interoperability between sensor, master, and software.
Whether in the automotive industry, mechanical engineering, or food production, IO-Link enables data-based decisions in real time.
Protect the environment and resources
Energy monitoring and energy management: Collect and analyse data from sensors for electrical energy, water, compressed air, leakage, gas, oil, steam, motor currents, or temperatures – for targeted savings measures and sustainable operation.
Error prevention and quality control
Real-time data from sensors helps detect process deviations immediately – before they result in waste or downtime. Data analysis can also improve product quality and KPIs.
Avoid downtime (condition monitoring, predictive maintenance)
Early detection of wear, excessive vibration, or anomalies reduces maintenance effort and increases plant availability. This saves money, time, and reduces stress.
Transparent production
Traceability and OEE evaluation through consistent, real-time data collection – accessible via dashboards or AI at any time and from any location
Where does the data for the application examples come from?
IO-Link is the standard for integrating machines and systems into digitalisation concepts. Data and information are extracted from sensors and actuators and made usable. IO-Link is therefore the foundation for cyber-physical systems, such as the smart factory. Integration is simple, fast, and manufacturer-independent. This is modern, efficient digitalisation.
You still benefit from the standard functions offered by IO-Link:
- Device replacement via plug and play (backup and restore)
- Parameter, identification, and diagnostic data
- Global standard according to IEC61131-9
The IIoT platform moneo is the ideal solution for getting started with IIoT: It automatically detects connected IO-Link devices, intuitively visualises data, and enables structured analysis. Thanks to plug-and-play functionality, moneo is ready to use in just a few minutes – without any IT expertise or lengthy integration.
moneo not only displays live data, but also maps condition monitoring, alarms, trend analyses, and energy consumption. This speed and simplicity are a decisive advantage, especially in retrofit projects.
moneo remoteConnect enables direct, manufacturer-independent remote access to PLCs, servers, sensors, and other network devices. Thanks to IO-Link, detailed diagnostics down to the sensor/actuator level are possible – even remotely.
IIoT devices
For additional cybersecurity and scalability requirements, ifm offers a diverse portfolio of IIoT and edge devices.
The devices also provide a no-code solution for easy integration. Additional communication options are also available for your digitalisation project.
