IO-Link Spy makes communication visible

Communication in an IO-Link system always takes place between an IO-Link master and a connected device, and is divided into three data types: process data, which is exchanged cyclically and in real time, such as measured values or switching states; parameter data, which is transmitted acyclically and used to configure the device, for example limit values or operating modes; and event data, through which a device actively sends messages such as errors or maintenance notices to the master. Only the interplay of these three channels makes IO-Link such a flexible communication standard – and this is exactly where it becomes relevant for troubleshooting: anyone who wants to understand why a system isn’t responding as expected needs to know which data flowed between master and device, when, and in what order.

Service and commissioning teams therefore ask themselves the same question time and again, not just at year-end: which tool truly makes daily work analyzing IO-Link communication easier – and is nevertheless often missing from the toolbox?

TEConcept’s IO-Link Spy was developed exactly for this purpose. It analyzes and visualizes IO-Link communication without intervening in ongoing operation. This makes the IO-Link Spy the modern equivalent of the classic test lamp for industrial communication.