ZMDI's New Member of Cost-Effective HV Line Driver Family for Factory Automation with IO-Link Functionality

ZMD AG, a global supplier of energy-efficient analog and mixed-signal solutions for automotive, industrial, and medical applications, today announced a new member of its cost-effective line driver and level shifter IC family. The ZIOL2201 is a high-voltage I/O channel that meets the physical layer requirements of sensor and actuator systems used in factory automation. An integrated DC/DC converter allows power supply of external sensor and actuators with up to 15V, saves board space and design costs. The ZIOL2201 is function- and pin-compatible with the ZIOL2401 and ZIOL2211, ZMDI's first members of the IO-Link family. The ZIOL2201 is available with smart power functionality for device applications. ZMDI's new high-voltage line driver ZIOL2201 is ideal for all kinds of sensors and actuators used in the harsh environment of automation applications. In addition to the DC/DC converter, it provides a wide range of configurable system features. The IO-Link drivers are fully programmable ranging from slew rate, and current settings to numerous diagnostics features. "Since the introduction of the ZIOL2401 in 2009, we have seen strong interest in IO-Link products from the market. Responding to customer demand, we developed the ZIOL2201 to complement the ZIOL2401 and the ZIOL2211 and thus enable designers to achieve the optimum balance of price and performance," said Bernhard Huber, standard products business line manager at ZMDI. ZMDI's existing IO-Link tools also support the ZIOL2201. 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. Tools, Packaging & Pricing The ZIOL2401 starter and lab kits are suitable for all ZMDI IO-Link products including the ZIOL2201. 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 ZIOL2201 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 2.62, in volumes of 1000 devices. Samples are available now. www.zmdi.com