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  4. Ethernet modules DI/DO

AL42 and AL43 – 8 digital inputs and 8 digital outputs

Linking digital IO signals in the field

The Ethernet modules of the AL42 (StandardLine) and AL43 (PerformanceLine) series from ifm combine 8 digital inputs and 8 digital outputs in one compact device – ideal for direct field use. Thanks to integrated counter functions up to 4,500 Hz and innovative SSC switching logic, simple control tasks can be implemented directly in the module without the need for an additional controller.

Whether recording sensor values or directly switching actuators, the modules offer maximum efficiency for modern automation solutions. With their robust design and flexible fieldbus compatibility, they are the perfect choice for Industry 4.0 applications.

Discover them now and take your machine communication to the next level!

System overview

System overview Ethernet modules DI/DO

Ethernet modules with Digital Input and Digital Output in detail

8 digital inputs and 8 digital outputs

The StandardLine (AL42 series) and PerformanceLine (AL43 series) Ethernet modules combine 8 digital inputs with 8 digital outputs and are ideal for acquiring digital signals and counting internally. At the same time, actuators can be controlled directly in the field based on the counter values using various output switching functions. The differences lie primarily in the power distribution of the outputs, the power supply options, and the current limit.

  • 4 x A ports and 4 x B ports for DI/DO
  • M12 A-coded (StandardLine) or M12 L-coded (PerformanceLine) power supply 
  • Variants for common fieldbuses
  • Output power up to 3.6 A
  • Current measurement
  • Counter function with SSC

Product overview

 

StandardLine

PerformanceLine

  AL42xx AL43xx
Daisy chain Fieldbus Power + fieldbus
Power M12 A-code
3.9 A (US)
4 A (UA)
M12 L-code
16 A (US)
16 A (UA)
Ports M12 A-code
4 x 2 DO
4 x 2 DI
M12 A-code
4 x 2 DO
4 x 2 DI
Fieldbus PROFINET
EtherNet/IP
Modbus TCP
PROFINET
EtherNet/IP
Output power 3.6 A (Port 1–4) 3.6 A (port 1+2)
3.6 A (port 3+4)
Current limitation per module per port (adjustable)
Current measurement
Counter function CTU (Up Counter)
CTD (Down Counter)
CTUD (Up-Down Counter)
CTDIR (Direction Counter)
Output switching function
SSC (counter)
one point
two point
window
latch
Protection rating IP67 (orange)
IP69K (grey)

Material

Connectors/sockets

Nickel-plated brass (orange)
Stainless steel (grey)

Function and wiring

Function and wiring of Ethernet Module DI/DO

Counter and switching functions (SSC)

Counter function

The modules with integrated counter function offer various counting modes that can be configured directly at the input. This allows pulses from sensors or switches to be recorded accurately, e.g. for piece counting, position detection or clock control. The maximum counting frequency is 4.500 Hz, so even high-frequency counting is no problem.

CTU (Up Counter)
Counts upwards with each pulse – ideal for counting workpieces or events.

CTD (Down Counter)
Counts down, e.g. from a defined number to 0 – useful for residual quantities or cycles.

CTUD (Up-Down Counter)
Counts up or down – depending on two different input signals.

CTDIR (Direction Counter)
Detects the counting direction (forward/backward), e.g. for conveyor belts or travel paths.

SSC output switching functions – respond instantly

With the Switching Signal Channel (SSC) function, outputs can be switched depending on the meter reading without a controller. This allows simple reactions to be implemented directly in the module.

One Point
The output switches at a specific counter value.

Two Point
The output switches on at a first value and off again at a second value – ideal for range control.

Window
The output is active as long as the counter reading is within a certain range of values.

Latch
The output is activated when a switching point is reached and remains active until it is reset manually or by another signal.

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