Phoenix IB IL AO Series – Analog Output Modules
The Phoenix IB IL AO Series (INTERBUS Inline Analog Output Modules) provides precise analog output control for automation and process applications. These modules are part of the Inline I/O system, known for its compact design, flexible configuration, and easy integration with a wide range of PLC and control systems.
Each module converts digital control signals into analog voltage or current outputs, enabling accurate control of actuators such as valves, drives, and indicators. The IB IL AO series is optimized for space-saving installation, stable performance, and cost efficiency — ideal for modular and distributed automation architectures.
1. General Overview
The IB IL AO (Analog Output) modules are designed to output standard process control signals such as 0–10 V, ±10 V, 0–20 mA, or 4–20 mA.
They interface directly with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) via the Phoenix INTERBUS or Inline communication system, offering plug-and-play configuration and fieldbus compatibility.
Key design goals of the IB IL AO series include:
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High-accuracy analog output generation
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Compact 12 mm or 24 mm width housing
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Ease of wiring with pluggable terminals
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Integrated diagnostics and status LEDs
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Compatibility with ECO, PAC, BP, and SF product variants
2. Technical Characteristics
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Output Types: Voltage (0…10 V, ±10 V) or Current (0…20 mA, 4…20 mA)
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Resolution: 12 to 16 bits (depending on model)
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Update Rate: Typically <1 ms per channel
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Supply Voltage: 24 V DC
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Isolation: Channel-to-bus and supply isolation depending on version
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Connection Type: Inline system connectors or bus plug variants
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Temperature Range: -25 °C to +55 °C
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Mounting: DIN rail (EN 60715)
3. Detailed Model Table and Descriptions
| Order No. | Model | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2702498 | IB IL AO 4/U/0-10-ECO | 4-channel analog output module, voltage output 0…10 V, cost-optimized “ECO” version for standard automation tasks. |
| 2702497 | IB IL AO 4/I/4-20-ECO | 4-channel analog output module, current output 4…20 mA, “ECO” version offering reliable performance at a lower cost. |
| 2878036 | IB IL AO 4/8/U/BP-PAC | Advanced analog output module supporting 4 or 8 voltage channels, with bus plug PAC connection for flexible field use. |
| 2878052 | IB IL AO 4/8/U/BP-2MBD-PAC | Same as above but with 2MBD variant for enhanced bus diagnostics and multi-drop capabilities. |
| 2878049 | IB IL AO 4/8/U/BP | Standard version with 4 or 8 voltage output channels and basic bus plug connectivity. |
| 2701389 | IB IL AO 2/UI-XC-PAC | 2-channel universal output module (voltage or current) in Extended Condition (XC) version for harsh environments. |
| 2700775 | IB IL AO 2/UI-PAC | Universal 2-channel analog output for voltage or current, suitable for standard Inline applications. |
| 2861467 | IB IL AO 2/U/BP-PAC | 2-channel analog voltage output (0…10 V), with bus plug PAC connection for modular control cabinets. |
| 2863957 | IB IL AO 2/U/BP-ME | 2-channel analog voltage output, ME (Machine Edition) version optimized for mechanical systems and high EMC resistance. |
| 2732732 | IB IL AO 2/U/BP | Basic 2-channel analog voltage output (0…10 V), standard bus plug connection. |
| 2863083 | IB IL AO 2/SF-PAC | 2-channel “Safety Function” analog output module for functionally safe signal output in process applications. |
| 2862194 | IB IL AO 2/SF-2MBD-PAC | Safety-certified analog output module with 2MBD enhanced diagnostics and redundancy support. |
| 2862806 | IB IL AO 2/SF | Standard “SF” analog output with safety-related functions and direct bus integration. |
| 2861399 | IB IL AO 1/U/SF-PAC | 1-channel analog voltage output module, safety-rated version with PAC bus interface. |
| 2861315 | IB IL AO 1/SF-PAC | Single-channel analog output (standard signal) with integrated safety functionality and PAC bus plug. |
| 2726298 | IB IL AO 1/SF | Compact 1-channel analog output for safety and process control applications. |
4. Model Classification and Meaning of Suffixes
| Suffix | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| U | Voltage output | 0…10 V or ±10 V range |
| I | Current output | 0…20 mA or 4…20 mA |
| UI | Universal output | Configurable for either voltage or current |
| ECO | Economic version | Simplified, cost-effective design |
| PAC | Process Automation Controller type | Enhanced communication and diagnostics |
| BP | Bus Plug | Field-installable variant with plug connector |
| 2MBD | Dual Multi Bus Diagnostics | Advanced fieldbus diagnostics and redundancy |
| SF | Safety Function | Complies with safety integrity requirements |
| XC | Extended Condition | Designed for harsh or outdoor environments |
| ME | Machine Edition | Ruggedized design for industrial machinery |
5. Key Features and Advantages
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High signal accuracy for reliable analog process control
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Compact modular design – easy to integrate into Inline systems
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Simple configuration via PLC engineering software (e.g., PC WORX, PLCnext)
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Diagnostic LEDs for quick maintenance and system monitoring
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Fieldbus-independent communication with INTERBUS, PROFIBUS, or Ethernet-based controllers
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Variants for safety, environmental protection, and economy – covering a wide range of industrial needs
6. Application Areas
| Sector | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| Process Automation | Analog control of actuators, valves, and positioners |
| Machine Building | Output of speed, torque, or motion control signals |
| Building Automation | HVAC analog control, damper and motor regulation |
| Energy Systems | Voltage and current control for distributed energy systems |
| Water/Wastewater | Level and flow control signal outputs |
| Oil & Gas / Harsh Environment | XC and SF variants ensure safe operation under demanding conditions |
7. Example Use Cases
| Task | Recommended Module | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0–10 V control of drives | IB IL AO 4/U/0-10-ECO | Ideal for cost-sensitive analog voltage applications |
| 4–20 mA process output | IB IL AO 4/I/4-20-ECO | Standard module for current-controlled devices |
| Safety-critical analog control | IB IL AO 2/SF-PAC | Ensures SIL-compliant output control |
| Universal analog output (field-configurable) | IB IL AO 2/UI-PAC | Flexible voltage/current output selection |
| Outdoor or rugged installations | IB IL AO 2/UI-XC-PAC | Extended temperature and vibration tolerance |
| Compact single-channel analog output | IB IL AO 1/SF-PAC | Perfect for space-limited applications |
8. Selection Guide
| Requirement | Recommended Model | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Cost-effective standard output | IB IL AO 4/U/0-10-ECO / IB IL AO 4/I/4-20-ECO | Simple, economical analog control |
| High-density 8-channel output | IB IL AO 4/8/U/BP-PAC | Compact, powerful multi-channel version |
| Harsh environment / outdoor | IB IL AO 2/UI-XC-PAC | XC protection (temperature, EMC, vibration) |
| Safety-rated process control | IB IL AO 2/SF-PAC / AO 1/SF-PAC | SIL-rated outputs with redundancy |
| Flexible signal selection | IB IL AO 2/UI-PAC | Voltage or current configuration |
| Machine Edition | IB IL AO 2/U/BP-ME | Robust mechanical version for heavy-duty use |
9. Conclusion
The Phoenix IB IL AO Series combines precision, reliability, and modular flexibility for analog signal output in modern automation systems.
Whether you need compact single-channel safety modules or high-density multi-output devices, this series delivers scalable and cost-effective solutions compatible with Phoenix’s Inline and INTERBUS systems.
Their wide range of variants (ECO, PAC, SF, XC, ME) ensures that engineers can choose the perfect balance of functionality, environmental resilience, and cost — making the IB IL AO series a cornerstone of professional industrial control architecture.