Phoenix IBS IL 24 Series: Industrial INTERBUS Couplers & Communication Modules - Application & Selection Guide
Core Positioning
The Phoenix IBS IL 24 Series is a core part of the Inline product family, focusing on INTERBUS protocol-based distributed I/O system integration. As industrial-grade bus couplers and communication modules, they serve as the "data hub" between central controllers (PLCs) and distributed I/O terminals, enabling stable data transmission and power supply in complex automation environments. Supporting 24V DC power supply, with transmission rates up to 2Mbit/s and maximum 63 local bus devices connectivity, the series features copper/fiber optic connection options, remote bus branching, and multi-interface compatibility. It is widely used in manufacturing, process automation, and hazardous area supporting systems, ensuring reliable communication in harsh industrial conditions such as electromagnetic interference, long-distance transmission, and distributed layouts.
Model Classification & Function Interpretation
1. Bus Couplers (BK Series) – Core Connection Foundation
| Model Category |
Key Models |
Core Functions |
Technical Highlights |
Application Scenarios |
| Copper Cable Couplers |
2861580, 2862000, 2742094 |
INTERBUS master-slave connection, local bus power supply |
500kbit/s (standard) or 2Mbit/s (2MBD) transmission, supports 63 local devices |
General manufacturing workshops, assembly lines (short-distance, cost-effective) |
| Fiber Optic Couplers |
2862165, 2862220, 2860358 |
Fiber optic INTERBUS connection, 45° elbow optional |
F-SMA connector, anti-interference, long-distance transmission |
Metallurgical plants, chemical workshops (strong EMI, long-distance deployment) |
| Special Interface Couplers |
2861593, 2742104 |
D-SUB interface integration |
Standard D-SUB connector, compatible with traditional industrial devices |
Legacy equipment upgrading, test benches (D-SUB-based signal transmission) |
2. Communication Modules (RB Series) – Remote Bus Expansion
| Model Category |
Key Models |
Core Functions |
Technical Highlights |
Application Scenarios |
| Standard Communication Modules |
2861441, 2861962 |
Remote bus branching, data forwarding |
2Mbit/s transmission, IP20 protection |
Distributed control systems (multi-branch signal convergence) |
| Fiber Optic Communication Modules |
2878159, 2878117 |
Fiber-copper signal conversion |
FO transmission physics, 500V AC isolation |
Oil refineries, power plants (flammable explosive environments, anti-interference) |
3. I/O Integration Modules (DIO Series) – Signal Acquisition/Output
| Model Category |
Key Model |
Core Functions |
Technical Highlights |
Application Scenarios |
| Digital I/O Module |
2742586 |
16-channel input + 16-channel output |
Spring-cage connection, 24V DC compatibility |
Equipment status monitoring, actuator control (automotive assembly lines, logistics sorting systems) |
Industrial Application Value
- Stable INTERBUS Communication: Complies with DIN E19258/EN50170 standards, realizing cyclic data transmission between master and slave stations, ensuring real-time control in high-speed production lines.
- Dual Connection Flexibility: Copper cable models (cost-effective) for general scenarios; fiber optic variants (anti-EMI, long-distance) for harsh industrial environments, solving signal interference issues in heavy electrical workshops.
- Strong Expansion Capability: Each coupler supports up to 63 local bus devices and 15 remote bus branches, meeting the expansion needs of large-scale automation systems such as smart factories.
- Reliable Power Supply: Integrates 24V DC power distribution for connected I/O modules, with reverse polarity protection and 19.2~30V DC wide voltage range, adapting to unstable industrial power grids.
Selection Guide
- Determine Connection Medium: Choose copper cable models (BK-T/U, RB-T) for distances <100m; fiber optic models (BK-LK, RB-LK) for long-distance (>100m) or high-interference scenarios.
- Confirm Transmission Rate: Select standard models (500kbit/s) for general control; 2MBD-suffixed models (2861962, 2862000) for high-speed data transmission (e.g., precision machining).
- Match Interface Requirements: D-SUB models (2861593) for legacy equipment; standard Inline connectors for new system integration.
- I/O Expansion Needs: Equip 2742586 DIO module for centralized digital signal acquisition/output in control cabinets.
- Environmental Adaptation: Prioritize fiber optic models with 500V AC isolation for hazardous areas or strong EMI environments.
Installation & Usage Notes
- Power Supply: Ensure 24V DC input (19.2~30V DC), avoid overvoltage damage; use spring-cage connection for 0.09~1.5mm² conductors.
- Wiring: Separate power and signal cables to reduce interference; fiber optic connections require proper F-SMA plug insertion.
- Environmental Control: Install in IP20 control cabinets, operating temperature -25℃~55℃, avoid moisture and corrosive gases.
- Expansion Limits: Do not exceed 63 connected devices per coupler to ensure transmission stability.
