Product Description

Beckhoff is a global supplier and manufacturer of industrial automation equipment. The company manufactures industrial PCs, I/O systems, and automation software.

The EK1400 is an EtherCAT coupler that couples EherCAT G networks with EtherCAT terminals. Beckhoff’s EtherCAT terminals are used as ‘all-in-one’ devices for all kinds of automation functions. The EtherCAT terminals are easy to configure and can seamlessly integrate Fieldbus systems and safety devices. They are considered highly versatile systems that provide a real-time I/O functionality. Because of a modular structure, the terminals can be expanded by connecting with extension modules. The EK1400 can connect the EtherCAT terminals with EtherCAT G networks. The device acts as a branch controller and uses an Ethernet cable for the connection and data transfer. This model has more than 65,000 EtherCAT terminals. The EK1400’s data transfer rate is 1 Gbit/s. With such a fast-paced data transfer, the lag is reduced to just around 1 µs.

The EK1400 control software is TwinCAT. With TwinCAT, any desktop PC can be converted to a real-time controller. The device has two RJ45 ports and runs on a 24 V DC power supply. It also has a 500 V electrical isolation. The system has a variable installation position. It is protected against harmful penetration of objects that are greater than 12.5 mm in size. With EN-compliant shock and vibration resistance, the system is suited for operation in harsh ambient conditions. It is safe to use this coupler within a 95% relative humidity range. The EK1400’s EMC emission also complies with European standards. This coupler can be safely used in a 0 ᵒC to 55 ᵒC temperature range. All these features make the EK1400 a very effective subsystem for Beckhoff’s EtherCAT terminals.