Motor starter with communications connector for IO-link

Several compact starters can be mounted side-by-side. They send not only operating data but also diagnostic data to the control via the IO-Link protocol. This reduces the amount of wiring in the control circuit, and simplifies system-wide diagnostics.

Up to four compact starters can be mounted side-by-side to save space. They are linked via the standardized three-wire IO-Link to an IO-Link Master, for example to the electronic 4SI IO-Link module of the ET200S distributed I/O. IO-Link replaces the control circuit wiring otherwise required for the four motor starters, so saving the user wiring costs. Not only operating data but also signaling functions, such as short circuit and end of service life can be transmitted.

This allows a high density of information, and simplifies system-wide diagnostics down to field level. The Master sends diagnostic and operating data to a higher-level control, such as the Simatic S7. The WinCC flexible visualization system can then display the diagnostic data as plain text on the Simatic HMI (Human Machine Interface). This locates faults very quickly so they can be rectified without delay, and thus raise system availability.

The 3RA6 compact starter combines the function of a circuit breaker, an electronic overload relay and a contactor. It is already available with AS-interface that is suitable for sensors and actuators distributed in the field.