CC-Link extension caters for sensors

Mitsubishi has developed a sensor-level version of the CC-Link bus technology that is used widely in Asia. The new CC-Link/LT can support up to 1,024 digital I/O devices, such as limit switches, pilot lights and pushbuttons, spread over a distance of up to 500m.

Although CC-Link is not widely used in Europe, there are already more than two million nodes installed, and it is supported by a "partner association" with more than 500 member companies.

The sensor-level version carries power and signals on the same cable, to which connections are made using an IDC (insulation displacement connector) technology, avoiding the need to strip and terminate the cables.