1. Actuator Sensor Interface (AS-Interface / AS-i)
If you are talking about field bus networks and industrial I/O, ASI stands for Actuator Sensor Interface.
- What it does: It is a master-slave industrial networking protocol designed for connecting simple discrete devices—such as limit switches, proximity sensors, pneumatic valves, and indicator lights—using a single, unshielded two-wire flat yellow cable.
- How it is used on the robot: Instead of routing dozens of individual, discrete I/O wires through the robot's arm down to the controller, an internal AS-i cable option allows you to connect a localized AS-i module or valve bank right at the robot's wrist/tool flange. The robot's internal harness passes these two network wires safely down the arm to an AS-i gateway or master card inside the controller.