IO-Link Hubs

Banner's IO-Link Hubs allow for large numbers of discrete sensors and actuators to be connected to an IO-Link Master via standard M12 cables. Each hub can connect up to 8 or 16 (model dependent) sensors or actuators via IO-Link. These solutions can be combined with Banner's IO-Link Masters for transmitting discrete IO to a higher-level control system.

Consolidate IO-Link Signals for Real-Time Monitoring

The new IO-Link Hubs come in durable and compact four-port or eight-port housings. The input ports can each be customized individually, which allows users to integrate multiple discrete signals into one IO-Link communication channel easily and cost-effectively. The IO-Link Hubs simplify wiring and minimize errors, because they use standard M12 connectivity and require only one connection for signal transmission and power supply.

One of the most significant applications for the IO-Link Hubs is that when they are paired with Banner's IO-Link Masters, signal data from discrete sensors can be sent to PLCs, HMIs, or cloud networks for productivity-boosting data analytics.

Key Advantages

Easily Add Discrete Sensors to IO-Link Networks

The IO-Link Hubs feature either four or eight input ports with two discrete channels each (either PNP or NPN). These inputs can be routed to a single M12 interface port on the IO-Link Hub with a splitter. In addition to bringing in discrete signals, users also have the ability to drive an NPN or PNP output from each of the ports. Users can start with a single IO-Link Hub and add further hubs as they scale up operations.

Uses Standard M12 Cordsets

To maximize efficiency, reduce costs for end users, and simplify installation, the IO-Link Hubs use industry-standard M12 cordsets. Unlike traditional discrete-input junction blocks, which often use a bulky homerun connector for connecting to a higher level control system, Banner IO-Link Hubs use a standard three-pin M12 cable for connection to an IO-Link Master. Standardizing on M12 connectivity helps eliminate wiring and pinout mistakes, ensures much faster installation times, and allows users to standardize on more cost-effective and readily available cabling for transmitting discrete signals.

Provides Clear and Immediate Status Indication

Easily visible LEDs for each input port on the Hubs directly show the status of the incoming discrete signals.

Saves Space with a Compact, Stackable, and Rugged Design

The IO-Link Hubs are designed to be small, unobtrusive, and convenient. The Hubs can consolidate eight or sixteen discrete input devices into a single IO-Link communication channel, all while staying neatly out of the way. Their housings are built tough, with IP65, IP67, and IP68 certification. Users who require more discrete inputs or outputs in one location can combine multiple Hubs. Banner IO-Link Hubs are designed with centralized mounting holes and ports on the outside edges, so that the Hubs can be “stacked” in layers. This allows users to manage a significant amount of IO with a uniquely small footprint.