Multifunctional EtherCAT terminal boosts analog I/O flexibility
EL4374 EtherCAT terminal serves as a multipurpose, combined input/output for -10/0 to +10 V or -20/0/+4 to +20 mA signals that can be used for standard automation tasks at a rate of 1 kbps per channel. This ability to measure a wide range of signals lets users deploy one terminal instead of multiple specialized terminals, reducing cost and space requirements in I/O systems.
EL4374 terminal combines two analog inputs and two analog outputs in a compact 12-mm housing. Users can individually parameterize these channels for current or voltage mode using Beckhoff’s TwinCAT 3 automation software. The analog inputs and outputs are digitized with a resolution of 16 bits, and are transmitted to higher-level automation devices under galvanic isolation.
With a signal measuring range of +107% of the nominal range, EL4374 also supports commissioning with sensor values in the limit range and evaluation in accordance with NAMUR NE43. In addition, EL4374’s high output power allows loads up to 750 Ω at 20 mA.