The K20 compact module series rounds off the AS-Interface compact modules with a particularly slim design and a width of only 20 mm. Thanks to its extremely compact dimensions, these modules are particularly suited for handling machine applications in the field of production engineering where modules need to be arranged in the smallest of spaces.

Robotics is yet another application area. Instead of the AS-Interface flat cable, the K20 modules are connected to AS-Interface over a round cable with an M12 cable box. The AS-Interface bus cable and the 24 V DC auxiliary power supply are routed in this case in a shared round cable. This enables extremely compact installation.

The flexibility of the round cable means that it can also be used on moving machine parts without any problems. The K20 modules are also ideal for such applications as their non-encapsulated design makes them particularly light in weight.

In applications with tow chains, many users rely on placing the AS?Interface bus cable in a round cable. In this case, the K20 modules support direct connection to the round cable. No flat to round cable adapter is required.

The K20 compact module series includes standard AS-Interface modules, as well as an ASIsafe version for the connection of safety-related sensors, such as EMERGENCY-STOP pushbuttons or protective door monitoring. All AS-Interface K20 modules support, as far as technically possible, the expanded address mode (A/B addresses) according to AS-Interface Specification V2.1, which enables connection of 62 stations to an AS-Interface network. The K20 module with four inputs and four outputs works in the extended address mode according to AS?Interface Specification V3.0 that also enables for the first time four outputs on an A/B slave and thus both 248 inputs and 248 outputs in the full configuration of an AS?Interface network.

For particularly space-saving dimensions, the sensors and actuators are connected over M8 plug-in connectors. Alternatively, M12 connectors with Y assignment can be used.