Fieldbus & Industrial Networking


Future-ready I/O to redefine connectivity

September 2025 Fieldbus & Industrial Networking

Schneider Electric South Africa has launched its state-of-the-art Modicon Edge I/O NTS product in the South African market. Replacing the Modicon STB distributed I/O system, the Edge I/O is the future-ready I/O that is designed to meet the evolving needs of industrial applications and redefine connectivity, data aggregation and operational efficiency for industries across the region.

Sbo Chili, product offer manager for HMIs and PLCs at Schneider Electric, explains that the product is the latest distributed IP20 I/O system, which provides customers with a wide variety of choices and can address the needs of various applications within a single I/O family.

Robust, next-generation solution

“The Edge I/O is designed with the future in mind, and this new offer allows customers to meet their current needs while preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow. This product stands out as a robust, next-generation solution, significantly improving upon its predecessor, the STB,” says Chili.

Built to deliver reliability and efficiency, Edge I/O delivers superior performance with the following advantages:

• Greater compatibility and flexibility: Unlike traditional Schneider-exclusive products, Edge I/O integrates seamlessly with select third-party systems, making it a versatile choice for various industrial applications.

• Cost-effective solution: Edge I/O is more affordable compared to its predecessor, offering businesses a high-performance option at a lower price point without compromising on quality.

• Optimised operational efficiency: With its advanced design, Edge I/O enables more flexible deployment, allowing industries to adapt faster to evolving operational demands.

• Minimised downtime and increased reliability: Built to reduce unplanned downtime, Edge I/O ensures smoother operations, minimising disruptions and costly shutdowns for industrial facilities.

Chili says that the Edge I/O product will serve key industries including food and beverage, mining and wastewater management, adding that Schneider Electric South Africa has structured its distribution strategy to prioritise technical expertise and seamless customer support, ensuring maximum value for its clients.

Distribution breakdown

In terms of the distribution breakdown, about 70% of the Edge I/O range will reach the market through system integrators. These specialised partners possess advanced programming knowledge and extensive training in Schneider PLCs, ensuring they can provide the necessary technical support for end users.

The remaining 30% will be split between distributors, end users (supported by system integrators where programming or technical expertise is required) and panel builders, where tailored solutions will enhance their operational capacity with Edge I/O’s robust capabilities.

Chili notes that this deliberate approach minimises technical support demands on Schneider Electric’s internal teams, as system integrators are equipped to handle programming and troubleshooting inquiries. “Edge I/O is not just a product, but a solution that equips our customers with the tools to navigate the complexities of modern industrial environments while preparing them for the future. With Edge I/O, we are enabling smarter, more connected operations that drive efficiency and innovation,” he concludes.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Prefabricated data centres for an AI-focused future at the edge
Schneider Electric South Africa IT in Manufacturing
As AI technologies continue to advance, data centres are being pushed to the edge, reshaping their operations to meet daily demands. To meet the relentless demands of AI workloads at the edge, prefabricated data centre solutions offer a scalable, efficient and fast alternative to traditional builds.

Read more...
A one-stop-shop for industrial
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
HMS Networks has announced that Red Lion and N-Tron are officially product brands. For thousands of automation engineers and system integrators worldwide, this means that scalable industrial solutions for cloud connectivity, edge intelligence, asset management, industrial Ethernet switches, panel meters and operator panels are now available from one trusted source.

Read more...
TechAccess and Schneider Electric partnership goes from strength to strength
Schneider Electric South Africa News
Schneider Electric, together with its longstanding partner TechAccess, is poised to take the Southern African market by storm.

Read more...
Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector for seamless deployment
Vepac Electronics Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The Edimax GP-203IT from Vepac Electronics is a Power over Ethernet injector that not only delivers a cost-effective solution for power distribution, but also enables seamless deployment on the existing LAN infrastructure.

Read more...
A one-stop-shop for industrial communication
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
HMS Networks has announced that Red Lion and N-Tron are officially product brands. For thousands of automation engineers and system integrators worldwide, this means that scalable industrial solutions for cloud connectivity, edge intelligence, asset management, industrial Ethernet switches, panel meters and operator panels are now available from one trusted source.

Read more...
Cost-effective industrial PoE injector
Vepac Electronics Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
The Edimax IGP-203IT from Vepac Electronics is an industrial PoE injector that not only delivers a cost-effective solution for power distribution, but also allows seamless deployment on an existing LAN infrastructure.

Read more...
Africa’s pragmatic approach to AI and how data centres are enabling it
Schneider Electric South Africa IT in Manufacturing
In Africa, the current AI momentum is driven by a fundamental need, building a resilient digital infrastructure that addresses the real-world challenges of the continent’s communities.

Read more...
Platform to accelerate supply chain decarbonisation
Schneider Electric South Africa IT in Manufacturing
Schneider Electric has launched Zeigo Hub by Schneider Electric, a powerful new digital platform designed to help organisations decarbonise their supply chains at scale.

Read more...
Schneider Electric launches Chapter 3 of Sustainability School
Schneider Electric South Africa News
Schneider Electric has launched Chapter 3 of its online Sustainability School, a free training programme designed to empower its channel ecosystem partners to become leaders in sustainability.

Read more...
Harnessing the power of OT networking
RJ Connect Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Businesses are increasingly embracing IT/OT convergence to stay ahead and capitalise on advantages such as smarter factories and higher efficiency. This article provides practical insights and guidance to help you navigate these challenges effectively.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved