SBAA691 June   2025 TIOL112 , TIOL221 , TIOS102

 

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  3.   Trademarks

Introduction

IO-Link is a standardized digital communication protocol offering connectivity between sensors, actuators and control systems. Since its first introduction in 2006, IO link’s bidirectional and backward standard input/output (SIO) communication compatibility has enabled the exchange of real-time data efficiently thus leading it to be a widely adopted protocol in the factory automation industry. Figure 1 showcases some of the applications such as proximity switch, stand-alone remote IO, and robot position sensor where IO technology is utilized for communication.

IO Link Applications Figure 1 IO Link Applications

Texas Instruments has taken part in providing these IO link devices since 2011 and now offers newer solutions such as TIOL112 and TIOS102 seen in Figure 2, which include features such as:

  • Footprint compatibility between TI devices to interface with either IO-Link or SIO sensors
  • Low residual voltage of 0.5V (typical) at 200mA for lower power dissipation
  • Availability in smaller QFN package to fit in space-constrained sensors
  • Providing simple and flexible IO link implementation for modern factory automation designs
Figure 2 TIOL112 and TIOS102

However, as industrial factory automation systems get more complex the need for advanced integration, robustness, and real-time monitoring is key to enable “smarter” factories. The TIOL221 was designed with these factors in mind.

TIOL221 Block Diagram Figure 3 TIOL221 Block Diagram

As seen in Figure 3, this IO link device acts as an IO Link physical layer. Offering two channels, a communication channel (CQ) and an auxiliary digital input/output (DO/DI) channel that provides an additional channel to send and receive data for monitoring, configuration, diagnostics or any another function. The TIOL221 also offers a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) pin that provides the capability for the microcontroller to read separate diagnostic and status information. All these features provide faster real-time monitoring of the factory floor.

Table 1 lists additional parameters found in the TIOL221 that provide a wide range of benefits. These parameters help streamline integration and robustness in factory automation systems.

Table 1 TIOL221 Parameters and Benefits
Benefits TIOL221
Flexibility to communicate with variety of power systems Input supply voltage:
7V to 36V
Power external system level components Integrated low dropout regulator (LDO):
3.3V or 5V regulated power and up to 20mA current
Optimize power efficiency through lower power dissipation Low driver on resistance (RDSON):
2.5Ω typical
Increase robustness for harsh industrial environment IEC protection w/o external components:
±4 kV IEC 61000-4-4 electric fast transient
±1.2 kV/500 Ω IEC 61000-4-5 surge
Improve monitoring and long-term health of sensors/actuators Fault reporting functions:
Overcurrent, overvoltage, and overtemperature
Reduce manufacturing cost and maximize board space with small footprint Package options:
VQFN (4mm x 4mm), DSBGA (2.7mm x 2.7mm)

Conclusion

Furthermore, Texas Instruments offers a wide IO link portfolio that can meet not just current factory automation needs but also provide innovative solutions such as the TIOL221 for future-looking factory automation designs.

Additional Resources