Details
Balluff I/O Link Hubs
IO-Link sensor/actuator hubs
Balluff IO-Link hubs provide a flexible and cost-efficient way to bundle sensors and actuators on a machine and transmit signals via an IO-Link master. The hubs simplify wiring, reduce installation effort, and support quick maintenance thanks to standardized M12 / M8 connectivity.
Depending on the variant, IO-Link hubs can handle up to 32 digital inputs/outputs (with or without separate power supply for higher loads) or up to 8 analog input signals per IO-Link master port. Port-specific single-channel monitoring can detect short circuits, overloads, and cable breakage at the port for targeted troubleshooting.
What special features are available for Balluff IO-Link hubs?
Balluff IO-Link hubs combine simple installation with powerful diagnostics and add-on functions for modern automation.
Core capabilities
- Simple and cost-saving installation and maintenance
- Easy integration into existing automation systems via IO-Link
- Supports both digital and analog signals (variant-dependent)
- Up to 32 digital inputs/outputs for extensive applications (variant-dependent)
- Connector-based designs (M12 / M8) for fast wiring
Diagnostics & advanced functions
- Detects short circuit, overload, and cable break per port
- Extension port function for cascading an additional IO-Link hub
- Separate power supply available for high loads (variant-dependent)
- Condition monitoring options such as operating hours counter, temperature, vibration, or inclination (variant-dependent)
- Intelligent logic blocks for switching actuators (variant-dependent)
Which series are available (and how do I compare them)?
Below is a practical overview of Balluff IO-Link hub lines, including housing material, interface, typical capabilities, key functions, and environmental protection.
| Series | Line | Housing material | Interface | Key functions | Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard IO-Link sensor/actuator hubs (S-BNI H BL)
General-purpose hubs for sensor/actuator signal bundling
|
Black Line | PBT GF30, PA, PBT | IO-Link | Device discovery, identification, process data mapping Vibration & internal temperature (variant-dependent) |
IP67 |
| IO-Link sensor/actuator hubs for specialized applications (S-BNI H SL)
Robust metal housing options for demanding applications
|
Silver Line | Zinc, die-cast zinc | IO-Link | Device discovery, identification (incl. extended IDs) Vibration & internal temperature (variant-dependent) |
IP67 |
| IO-Link sensor/actuator hubs for IP69K environments (S-BNI H WL)
Designed for washdown and harsh cleaning processes
|
Washdown Line | PBT | IO-Link | Device discovery, selective diagnostics per port Washdown-ready construction |
IP68 / IP69K |
Selection guidance: confirm your channel needs (digital I/O vs. analog inputs), load requirements (separate supply for high loads), then choose the right line (standard/special/washdown) and the diagnostics/condition monitoring features you want.
Where are IO-Link hubs used?
IO-Link hubs are used wherever many sensors and actuators need to be connected cleanly and diagnosed quickly—especially when reducing wiring complexity improves uptime and serviceability.
Typical applications
- Machine-mounted sensor/actuator wiring consolidation
- Modular automation cells with frequent retooling or changeovers
- Packaging, assembly, and material handling systems
- Washdown areas using IP69K-rated hub variants
Why teams standardize on Balluff IO-Link hubs
- Less wiring by bundling multiple channels via one IO-Link port
- Faster diagnostics with port-specific monitoring
- Flexible scaling via extension/cascading (variant-dependent)
- Right fit with Black, Silver, and Washdown line options
FAQ: Balluff IO-Link hubs
Quick answers to help you choose the right hub line and configuration.
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