Which IFM AS‑Interface Module Should You Choose? EVC019 vs EVC018 vs AL1122

Floating Light Automation, an authorized distributor of IFM products, publishes this practical selection guide to help automation engineers, system integrators and procurement teams pick the right remote I/O module for distributed field control projects.

IFM provides a wide range of field bus modules for factory automation, and EVC019, EVC018 and AL1122 are frequently shortlisted for logistics, packaging and assembly line projects. Although they all collect field sensor signals, they run on different protocols and carry different I/O configurations, so mismatched selection will raise wiring workload and overall project cost.

Core Parameter Comparison Table

The IFM EVC019 is a compact AS‑Interface V3.0 communication module with 4 digital inputs and 4 PNP digital outputs. It is powered directly by the AS‑Interface bus, eliminating extra power cables and reducing wiring work. It reaches IP67 protection and supports operating temperatures from -25°C to +75°C, suitable for dusty, splashy industrial environments. Among IFM compact AS‑Interface modules, EVC019 has the highest I/O density, which cuts down the total module quantity and lowers project hardware investment.

EVC018 is also an AS‑Interface module, with 2 inputs and 2 NPN outputs. It fits auxiliary detection points that only need a small number of signal points. For large warehouse systems, combining EVC019 on main stations and EVC018 on secondary detection points can save roughly 15% hardware cost while keeping unified bus communication and easy maintenance.

Different from the AS‑Interface series, AL1122 adopts the PROFINET protocol with 8 digital inputs and no output channels. It needs an independent external power supply. It is preferred when you need high-speed data transmission, but it brings higher wiring and engineering cost compared with AS‑Interface solutions.

Recommended Deployment Scenarios

1. Conveyor Sorting System For automated logistics sorting lines, EVC019 is recommended at a ratio of 1 unit per 8 working stations. 4 inputs connect to photoelectric presence sensors on conveyors, and 4 outputs drive indicators and steering gear solenoid valves. This layout fully utilises its I/O capacity and avoids scattered modules that complicate maintenance.
2. Automatic Assembly Workshop Workstation One EVC019 can be configured for each assembly workstation, paired with IFM AC1144 AS‑Interface master module to link to PLC. This combination has been verified in many real projects, featuring stable communication and low failure rate. New stations can be added by parallel connection on the bus without heavy re-wiring.

Why Choose IFM EVC019?

The module adopts IFM’s dedicated anti-interference design for bus communication, maintaining stable signal transmission under strong electromagnetic interference. It uses industrial components and potting packaging to resist vibration, dust and moisture, with MTBF over 100,000 hours. It supports IFM official AS‑Interface debugging tools for fast I/O status checking.

All IFM modules supplied by Floating Light Automation are 100% brand new original, with official IFM serial numbers and certificates for authenticity verification. We stock EVC019 in our US West Coast warehouse and China bonded warehouse, supporting 48-hour delivery for North American clients. Sample orders and bulk annual contracts are accepted. Every unit comes with IFM’s 12-month global warranty, and we provide 24-hour online technical support.

FAQ

Q: Is IFM EVC019 resistant to oil and coolant? 

A: Yes. With PUR jacket and FKM O-ring, it can run continuously on machine tools and hydraulic stations with oil and cutting fluid splashes.

Q: Which sensors work with EVC019? 

A: It works with any sensor or actuator with M12 A-coded 4-pin interface, including IFM photoelectric, inductive, pressure and flow sensors, as well as compatible sensors from other brands.

Q: What to do if the M12 connector still has gaps after tightening? 

A: Inspect the O-ring. EVC019 has a mechanical stop to prevent over-compression of the O-ring. Replace the cable or O-ring if it is aged, deformed or missing; otherwise the IP67 rating cannot be guaranteed.

If you need the datasheet, wiring diagram or quotation of IFM EVC019, EVC018 or AL1122, contact our team online and we will reply within 24 working hours.