Iono Uno

A Professional PLC Built Around Arduino

Iono Uno transforms a standard Arduino into an industrial-grade PLC, merging the simplicity of Arduino development with rugged I/O interfaces built for real-world applications. It offers a reliable and robust solution that retains full compatibility with the Arduino ecosystem and its extensive range of libraries and resources.

Designed for use in both industrial and residential settings, Iono Uno is ideal for professional scenarios where long-term reliability, durability, and compliance with safety and technical regulations are essential.

The device adheres to CE directives for low voltage and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), as well as harmonized standards for electrical safety, emissions, and the RoHS directive limiting hazardous substances.

Multiple Ways to Use Iono Uno:

As a hardened Arduino

Keep using the Arduino IDE and programming methods you're already familiar with. Iono Uno gives you the same Arduino experience, but within a more durable platform designed for production environments—ideal for scaling from prototype to deployed system.

As a networked I/O module

Pair it with boards like Arduino Ethernet, Yún, or Uno WiFi to quickly build an Ethernet or WiFi-enabled I/O device. With Arduino Yún, you even get a Linux-based processor alongside the microcontroller.

As a Modbus-compatible module

Need a Modbus interface? Simply load example sketches for Modbus TCP or Modbus RTU from available libraries, and Iono Uno becomes a ready-to-use Modbus device that’s easy to configure over serial.

Naturally, you’re free to adapt any of the example code and implement your own custom behavior as needed.

Mounting:

9-module DIN rail enclosure with detachable terminal blocks for power, serial communication, and I/O connections.

Power Supply:

Operates with a 12–24V DC input, protected against surges and reverse polarity, and equipped with a self-resetting fuse.

Arduino Compatibility:

Supports any Arduino board with the 1.0 pin layout, whether 5V or 3.3V logic, including Uno, Uno WiFi Rev2, Ethernet, Zero, Leonardo, Leonardo Ethernet, Yún, and Yún Rev2.

Inputs and Outputs:

• 6 bistable relay outputs, each rated at 12A and 250V
• 4 flexible inputs configurable as digital, 0–10V analog, or 0–20mA current
• 2 lines usable as digital inputs or TTL I/Os (suitable for 1-Wire, I2C, or Wiegand)
• 1 analog voltage output ranging from 0 to 10V

Communication Interfaces:

• Standard RS-485 port connected to Arduino serial lines with integrated ESD protection
• Additional connectivity (Ethernet, WiFi, USB) depending on the selected Arduino board

Power Supply

The Iono module incorporates a highly filtered and well-protected power supply circuit, using large electrolytic capacitors, diodes, inductors, and a high-efficiency voltage regulator.

• Supports a wide input voltage from 11 to 30 VDC
• Resilient to electrical noise, voltage ripple, and fluctuations — ideal for automotive settings
• Power consumption is under 35 mA at 12V, including the Arduino Uno, making it suitable for low-power scenarios

Inputs

Iono provides 4 analog/digital inputs and 2 dedicated digital inputs, all safeguarded with industrial-grade protection.

• Accepts 0–10V voltage signals and 0–20mA current loops
• Input channels are buffered via operational amplifiers for electrical isolation and signal conditioning
• The 2 digital inputs support dry contact signals and are protected by a filtering and current-limiting network
• Input range for digital signals is 0–40VDC
• Shared positive terminals (C+) simplify wiring
• Inputs are designed to ensure reliability even in humid or oxidized conditions by maintaining ~5mA contact current

Relays

Equipped with six heavy-duty, latching relays rated for 12A at 250V AC:

• Withstand peak inrush currents up to 80A
• Built to last with over 5 million mechanical cycles
• Operate in extreme temperatures: -40°C to +85°C
• Double-winding bistable design consumes power only during switching
• Controlled via an onboard PIC18 microcontroller that handles pulse generation — Arduino code only needs to toggle the pin state

Analog Output

Includes a single 0–10V analog output:

• Driven by an Arduino PWM pin
• Buffered through a precision TSX561 op-amp
• Delivers a smooth and stable voltage output suitable for industrial environments

RS-485 Interface

Robust serial communication port protected against surges and ESD:

• Supports half-duplex communication at speeds from 1200 to 115200 bps
• Auto-direction switching via onboard microcontroller, with no need for manual control or sketch configuration
• Optional pull-up, pull-down, and termination resistors can be enabled with internal jumpers