The Wieland ricos FLEX is a modular fieldbus-independent remote I/O system that decentralizes data interchange between a central PLC and field-level sensors and actuators. Each station consists of a bus coupler — selected from PROFIBUS DP-V1, PROFINET IO, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, or Modbus TCP variants — and up to 64 pluggable I/O modules mounted on a 35 mm DIN rail. The system's defining mechanical feature is the two-part module design: a fixed connection base carries all field wiring via push-in spring-clamp terminals, while the electronics module plugs into the base and can be replaced without disturbing a single wire.

How fast is the internal bus?

The backplane bus runs at 48 Mbit/s across the DIN-rail bus, delivering reaction times as low as 20 microseconds from input change at one module to output update at another on the same coupler — fast enough for time-critical positioning, registration mark detection, and high-speed counting applications where conventional fieldbus latency would require local intelligence at the sensor. Module-to-module communication is transparent; the coupler manages the backplane scan autonomously and exchanges process data with the PLC via the selected fieldbus protocol.

What I/O signal types are available?

Standard modules include 4-channel and 8-channel digital inputs (24 VDC, sinking), 4-channel and 8-channel digital outputs (24 VDC, 0.5 A or 2 A per channel, sourcing), and 2-channel relay outputs (30 VDC/230 VAC, 3 A). Each channel has an LED status indicator visible from the front; a module status LED provides diagnostic information. The module side panel is printed with the wiring diagram for the specific signal type, serving as a permanent on-device reference for maintenance technicians. DIP switches on certain modules enable fast address setting and function selection without software.

What makes the mechanical design field-friendly?

Modules snap onto the DIN rail with a slide-and-click interlock — no tools, no screws, no levers. The 12.9 mm module width (48.5 mm for bus couplers) yields high channel density in shallow control cabinets. Operating temperature spans 0 to +60 degrees C with 10–95% non-condensing humidity tolerance. CE, cULus, and UL 508 certifications support deployment in North American and European machinery built to NEC and IEC standards. A microSD slot on the bus coupler stores the station configuration, enabling one-touch restoration if a coupler is replaced.