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The NXT signal tower with IO-Link base changes the approach to industrial signaling by combining a modular design with the open IO-Link communication standard. This combination simplifies electrical installation, speeds up device configuration, and provides direct digital communication between control systems and field devices. Its durable design and high protection ratings make it suitable for demanding industrial environments. This article reviews the technical characteristics, practical applications, and benefits of integrating the NXT signal tower with IO-Link base in modern automation systems.
IO-Link is an open industrial communication standard designed for direct connection of field devices such as sensors, actuators, and signaling devices with control systems like PLCs or monitoring platforms. It uses digital serial communication over a single standard connection instead of multiple wires for each function separately.
This approach simplifies wiring, speeds up device configuration, and provides direct communication between the control system and field devices, including status reading and fault detection. Since IO-Link is an open standard, it is compatible with devices and automation platforms from various manufacturers.
NXT is a modular signal tower that allows combining light, RGB, and sound modules according to specific application needs. The base provides power and communication, while the NXT BASE IO-Link version enables full digital control of the device using the IO-Link protocol.
Traditional signal towers require separate inputs for each function, which increases wiring complexity and installation time. The IO-Link base reduces this by controlling all signaling functions via the communication protocol, using only 7 bits, thereby simplifying both programming and wiring.
Additionally, the IO-Link base supports IODD file download, which contains device parameters and communication data in a standardized format. This allows the master controller or engineering software to automatically recognize and configure the device. This feature is especially useful during commissioning or device replacement.
The NXT BASE IO-Link is compatible with NXT STY, NXT FLA, NXT RGB STY, and NXT SOUNDER modules, providing flexibility in tower configuration according to specific signaling requirements.
| MODULES | NXT BASE 12V | NXT BASE 24V | NXT BASE 110/240V | NXT BASE 24V NFC | NXT BASE 24V PRO | NXT BASE IO-Link 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NXT STY 12V | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| NXT FLA 12V | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| NXT STY | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| NXT FLA | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| NXT RGB STY | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| NXT PRO RGB | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| NXT SOUNDER | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| NXT SOUNDER NFC | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
The table below summarizes the main technical parameters of the NXT BASE IO-Link. For full electrical specifications and connection diagrams, see the official Sirena datasheet for the specific model.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Supply voltage | 24V DC |
| Max current consumption | 260 mA (with 5 light modules + sound module) |
| Communication protocol | IO-Link |
| Operating temperature | -40°C to +60°C |
| IP protection rating | IP66, IP69K |
| Impact resistance | IK08 |
| Housing material | Self-extinguishing polycarbonate |
| Insulation class | Class II |
| Configuration support | IODD file download |
| Compatible modules | NXT STY, NXT FLA, NXT RGB STY, NXT SOUNDER |
The IP66 and IP69K protection ratings provide resistance against powerful water jets and high-pressure, high-temperature cleaning, making this base suitable for demanding environments such as food and beverage production, outdoor installations, or heavy industrial conditions.
Signal towers provide quick visual or acoustic information about equipment status to operators and control systems. With the IO-Link base, the NXT tower becomes an active part of the automation system, allowing dynamic configuration of signaling via software commands rather than switching wiring manually.
This flexibility is especially valuable in PLC-controlled production lines, particularly in flexible manufacturing environments where equipment operates with different processes or shift modes. The IO-Link protocol provides continuous monitoring of the base status, allowing immediate detection of faults and reduction of downtime.
In retrofit projects, the NXT BASE IO-Link offers a simple modernization option thanks to its compact 50 mm diameter and standard IO-Link interface, enabling integration into existing panel solutions without significant mechanical changes.
Main advantages of the IO-Link base for the NXT signal tower:
Reduced wiring complexity using digital communication over a single standard connection
Fast and easy configuration using IO-Link protocol and IODD file
Centralized control directly from the PLC or automation system
Continuous status monitoring for detecting faults and faster troubleshooting
High protection level (IP66, IP69K, IK08), suitable for harsh industrial and outdoor environments
Full compatibility with NXT modular components
The NXT signal tower with IO-Link base offers a practical solution to reduce wiring complexity, speed up commissioning, and ensure correct equipment status signaling integration into automation systems. Its modular flexibility, durable design, and IO-Link communication make it suitable for both new installations and retrofit projects in various industrial environments.
If you are planning a new installation, upgrading an existing line, or want to understand how this solution fits your specific application, ZTF Lāsma automation specialists can assist. Contact us to discuss your requirements and find the most suitable configuration for your system.
