New-Tech Europe Magazine | September 2018

Digital I/O solutions transmit and receive high-voltage binary signals between a central controller and an industrial sensor or actuator. Analog I/O solutions convert analog signals sent to and received from remote sensors and actuators into the digital domain so that the signals can be processed by the digital controller. IO-Link transceivers and binary drivers that are low power, come in small WLP packages, and feature on-board diagnostics. Maxim’s IO- Link transceivers, for instance, act as the PHY interface to a microcontroller running the data- link layer protocol while supporting up to 24V digital inputs and outputs. The company’s binary drivers, which support high-side, low-side, or push-pull configurations along with normally open or normally closed logic, integrate transient protection that meets IEC 60255-5 surges up to ±1.3kV and OTP programming options to set 3.3V or 5V outputs. Robust communications solutions that offer high data rates in compact sizes Over the years, Maxim has also created new pathways to Industry 4.0. Our demonstration platforms allow designers to quickly prototype and create industrial control solutions. Unveiled in 2014, our micro-PLC demonstration platform consisted of a first-generation industrial control chipset that reduced the PLC footprint by 10x while dissipating 50% less power. This platform supported the movement of decision-making and control closer to the edge of the manufacturing line. Two years later, our Pocket IO PLC demonstration platform highlighted the possibilities of adaptive manufacturing in a form

Image 2: In warehouses, robots are making repetitive tasks such as moving boxes more efficient.

factor of less than 10 cubic inches, while enabling factory control via an iPad. So, what’s coming up? I can simply say now that our next industrial IoT platform will continue the momentum of enabling designers to further advance the promise of industrial convergence. Hint to the reader: If you plan to attend electronica 2018 (Nov 13 – 16, 2018; Munich/ Germany), plan in a visit to Maxim’s booth in Hall C4, booth #440, to learn more!

Jeff DeAngelis, Managing Director, Industrial Communications, Maxim Integrated

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