June 2, 2015 – Linear Technology Korea (CEO Hong Sa-gwak) announced the launch of IO-Link (IEC 61131-9) reference designs including the DC2228A 8-port IO-Link master and DC2227A IO-Link device reference designs. With over 21.9 million IO-Link nodes installed worldwide, growing requirements for increasingly expanding networks are addressed with the new reference design kit. The new reference design kit reduces the number of ICs, development time, and time-to-market. Users can rapidly evaluate end-to-end IO-Link v1.1 systems and complete all necessary hardware, cables, and software work required.

The DC2228A is an integrated 8-port IO-Link master reference design that employs two LTC2874 quad master ICs to implement IO-Link v1.1 PHY (physical interface), utilizing the high port count and robustness of the LTC2874. This means the features of Hot Swap™ protected L+ power output, ±50V absolute maximum CQ pin, and 8V to 34V operation are leveraged. The DC2228A operates conveniently with external 24V power or Power over Ethernet (PoE) systems. The onboard dual-core NXP LPC43 microcontroller runs the DC2228A's protocol stack, while the TEConcept software control tool operates directly from a Windows PC to the board or remotely via Ethernet for more accurate factory floor simulation. IO-Link devices including the DC2227A can be connected to the DC2228A.

The DC2227A is an integrated IO-Link device reference design that employs the LT3669-2 device transceiver IC for communication and to power the onboard temperature sensor, illumination sensor, and incandescent lamp, leveraging the ±60V line protection and high current drive performance of the LT3669-2. This means the performance of a 300mA step-down regulator and 150mA LDO are utilized. The onboard Atmel SMART SAM3S series microcontroller operates the DC2227's protocol stack, while the TEConcept IODD (I/O Device Description) file supports both IO-Link and SIO device operation modes. All IO-Link masters including the DC2228A can operate the DC2227A.

The DC2228A is priced at $599 and the DC2227A is priced at $299. Detailed information regarding demos can be found at the respective regional offices of Linear Technology. For more information, refer to http://www.linear.com/solutions/5484 (DC2228A) or http://www.linear.com/solutions/5486 (DC2227A).

DC2228A IO-Link Master Reference Design Connected to Multiple DC2227A IO-Link Device Reference Designs