Communication-library function blocks such as ArCanSend use the DeviceName input to route messages through the intended hardware interface. Determine this string from the configured hardware in Automation Studio; do not substitute a module name or infer the path from the module type alone.
Understand the DeviceName Path
The documented format is <Slot>.<Subslot>.<Interface>/<NodeNumber>/<ChannelNumber>. The interface portion can be a short address or a hierarchical path through expansion hardware.
| Hardware arrangement | DeviceName example | Confirmed interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| X20IF2772 two-port CAN X20 interface module | SS1.IF1 |
Subslot 1, interface 1 |
| X20CS2770 two-port CAN electronics communication module in a POWERLINK expansion | IF3.ST2.IF1.ST4.IF2 |
Hierarchical interface path shown by Automation Studio |
Find the Address in Automation Studio
- Open the hardware configuration in Physical View and locate the required communication port.
- Hover the mouse pointer over that port. Read the device string from the Automation Studio popup.
- Copy the displayed string into the function block's
DeviceNameinput. - Verify that the selected port is the interface through which the target message must travel.
For nested hardware, use the full displayed path. In the supplied POWERLINK expansion example, the required value is IF3.ST2.IF1.ST4.IF2.
Confirm the Path in the Hardware Tree
As an alternative to the port popup, follow the configured hierarchy in Physical View. Right-click the hardware tree and expand it with plc address to expose additional device-string information. Compare this path with the value entered in the function block.
Select the Correct Endpoint Level
The required string is not always the address of the final field device. Some function blocks in the AsIoLink library require the device string of the channel to which the IO-Link device is connected, rather than the IO-Link device's own string. Confirm whether the block expects an interface, node, or channel endpoint, then select that object in Physical View before copying its address.
FAQ
Where do I find a B&R DeviceName in Automation Studio?
Open Physical View, locate the communication port, and hover over it. Automation Studio displays the device string in a popup.
What does SS1.IF1 mean in a B&R DeviceName?
SS1.IF1 identifies Subslot 1, Interface 1. It is the supplied example for an interface on an X20IF2772 module.
Which DeviceName do AsIoLink function blocks require?
Some AsIoLink function blocks require the device string of the connection channel, not the direct string of the IO-Link device. Select the channel in Physical View and use its displayed address.
