IO-Link Safety master supports decentralised production
11 November 2025 
Pilz has launched an IO-Link Safety master for rapid commissioning of modular, decentralised production plants. The PDP67 master is one of the first devices to comply with the IO-Link Safety specification v1.1.4, which has recently been certified by TUV SUD. It can be used to implement bidirectional communications with the field level.
The device extends the functions of a conventional IO-Link master by adding the option for safe communications for functional safety. As a decentralised interface to higher-level safety controllers, it enables various connections – such as safety sensors with IO-Link Safety, or standard IO-Link sensors or actuators. It provides flexible, safe communications up to PLe / SIL3, whether it’s safety-related or standard communications.
The master has four IO-Link Safety ports (Class A), plus four other ports, each with two configurable safe digital inputs or outputs. Sensors and actuators can share the same connection. As a result, users can make their designs more flexible, and expand them if required.
As a decentralised interface to higher-level safety controllers, the new master can process IO-Link Safety and failsafe signals, as well as IO-Link and standard signals. In addition, classic safety sensors – with OSSD outputs, for example – or actuators, can be connected at field level. The master can therefore be used to implement modular plant concepts.
Plug-and-play operation using standard M12 plug-in connectors reduces cabling. Applications can be configured and commissioned via a built-in Web server, through which errors can also be diagnosed rapidly, reducing commissioning times and downtime at the field level.
The safety master has IP67 or IP69 protection and can be used directly on a machine, or in rugged environments up to 5km above sea level and in temperatures from –30°C to +70°C. It is said to provide reliable safety in industrial or outdoor environments, and in dirty, foggy or similar conditions. The input wiring to a control cabinet is replaced by connecting a sensor to IP67 I/O, thus reducing the wiring effort and saving cabinet space.
Pilz plans to offer a complete IO-Link Safety system for safe communication at field level. As well as the master, the system will include sensors, field devices and compatible accessories, as well as configuration tools.
