Sensata introduces IO-link's new rotary Hall effect sensor

Sensata Technologies, a sensor solutions provider, announced the launch of two new rotary Hall effect sensors with IO-link: the ACW4 single-turn and TCW4 multi-turn modular Rotary Hall Effect sensors.

IO-link integration standardizes the output of sensors so they can communicate in any IO-Link-enabled fieldbus network, simplifying installation and replacement. New interface capabilities allow sensor connectivity from ERP all the way to the component level - supporting Industry 4.0 and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) environments.

Using IO-Link simplifies the need to design custom IO boxes to convert the various sensor outputs into an application-specific fieldbus standard, saving space and development costs. With this standardized communication method, ACW4 and TCW4 sensors can provide a digital point-to-point signal directly connected to any IO link master. Since the IO link master has various fieldbus interfaces, the existing fieldbus portion of the system can remain unchanged. The IO link also provides a universal power function, which further simplifies the design of the system.

IO-link capabilities for ACW4 and TCW4 Rotary Hall Effect sensors include:

● 24 V operation

● Maximum connection length of 20 m as specified by IO-link standard

● Enhanced diagnostics and "record keeping" capabilities

● Notification of events that exceed specifications or warning conditions

In addition to its compact size, the second generation of the product also utilizes the IO-link standard to enable users to access additional diagnostic data from the sensor. Users can now monitor parameters such as internal temperature, running time, voltage level and synchronization to identify abnormal conditions.

This diagnostic data allows operators to better understand the health of the sensors and schedule scheduled maintenance to avoid costly downtime. The electronics are contained in an IP65-rated supermolded plastic housing that keeps the environment sealed. These rotary Hall effect sensors are about 11 mm thick, very compact and flat. The magnet assembly is separate, and a range of magnet brackets are available for a variety of installations. The combination of small size and two-part configuration gives developers additional design flexibility.

The new ACW4 and TCW4 rotary position sensors with IO-link are ideal for use in robotic and conveyor applications common in inspection, packaging, sorting and palletizing equipment, where IO-link helps maintain smooth system operation, minimizes material loss and improves packaging accuracy and delivery.