ZMDI newest IO-Link high-voltage line driver targets harsh factory automation environments

ZMD AG (ZMDI), a global supplier of energy-efficient analog and mixed-signal solutions for automotive, industrial, and medical applications, today announced the fourth member of its cost-effective IO-Link line driver and level shifter IC family. The new ZIOL2411 offers two independent I/O channels that meet the physical layer requirements of master, sensor and actuator systems used in factory automation applications. The ZIOL2411 is pin- and function-compatible with the ZIOL2401. Designed for master applications ZMDI provides with the ZIOL2411 a cost-efficient IC without an integrated DC/DC converter. ZMDI's new high-voltage line driver ZIOL2411 is ideal for all kinds of harsh environments in automation applications. Like all the other IO-Link drivers the ZIOL2411 is fully programmable ranging from slew rate, and current settings to numerous diagnostics and protection features. "Since the introduction of the ZIOL2401 in 2009, we have growing interest in our IO-Link products. Responding to customer demand, we have developed the ZIOL2411 to complement the ZIOL2401, the ZIOL2201 and the ZIOL2211. These devices enable designers to achieve the optimum balance of price and performance," stated Bernhard Huber, standard products business line manager at ZMDI. ZMDI's existing IO-Link tools also support the ZIOL2411. Using the same IC and development tools for all serial I/O saves design time and shortens time to market. Furthermore, it allows designers to apply a proven design to a new product. The ZIOL2401 Starter and Lab Kits are suitable for all ZMDI IO-Link products including the ZIOL2411. The Lab Kit includes an evaluation board and a Windows-based configuration tool, with a USB interface between the PC and the board. Developers can easily evaluate configurations and save the results. In-system programming via SPI is also supported, allowing full customization after manufacturing. Operating temperature of the ZIOL2411 is -40°C to +85°C. The IC comes in a space saving 4mm x 4mm QFN24 package. An exposed die paddle ensures optimum heat distribution. Unit prices start at EUR 3.31, in volumes of 1000 devices. Samples are available now. About ZMDI Zentrum Mikroelektronik Dresden AG (ZMDI) is a semiconductor company focused on energy efficiency. The company is a leading supplier of innovative, highly-precise, robust and cost-efficient analog and mixed-signal semiconductors which allow for a maximum of energy efficiency and environmental protection in the automotive, mobile medical, industrial automation and consumer markets. The company designs and markets application-specific standard products (ASSPs) and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) which are known for their robust, cost-effective performance in demanding environments characterized by high temperature, high voltage, and the need for ultra-low power. Headquartered in Dresden, Germany, ZMDI has 280 employees worldwide and serves customers from its offices in Dresden, Stuttgart, Germany; Milan, Italy; Pocatello, ID, Melville, NY, USA; Tokyo, Japan and Taipei, Taiwan. ZMDI has design centres in Dresden, Stuttgart, Munich, Germany; Varna, Bulgaria and Madison, Wisconsin. See more at www.zmdi.com