The actuator/sensor interface (AS-Interface) is a heterogeneous bus system for networking simple, usually binary actuators and sensors at the lowest field level. It is then possible to replace a cable harness with parallel wiring by a simple two-wire cable for simultaneous transmission of data and power.

The AS interface operates according to the master/slave principle. The AS-i master module (DP/AS‑i Link Advanced, CP 343‑2, CP 343‑2P or IE/AS‑i LINK PN IO) controls the slaves (sensors/actuators) connected per AS-i cable. Up to 62 AS-Interface slaves can be operated on an AS-Interface master module.

Note:

AS-Interface is integrated as a subordinatebus in SIMATIC PCS 7. For further information on the AS-Interface, see Catalogs IK PI and IC 10.