Product Description:

The CU8880-0010 is produced by Beckhoff within the CU EtherCAT Junctions series. It serves as a compact USB-over-EtherCAT interface that lets controllers place standard USB 1.1 peripherals on remote machine panels without adding separate fieldbus hardware. By combining a Type B upstream port with an RJ45-based extender link, the junction brings human-machine interfaces, data loggers, or configuration dongles directly into the EtherCAT topology, simplifying panel wiring in distributed automation cells.

The unit draws its operating power from a backplane supply of 5 V DC, and the internal USB host stage can accept up to 500 mA at 5 V DC from that source. All long-distance segments use twisted-pair CAT5 cable, so the link can be routed like a standard Ethernet run without special shielding. Mechanical fixation is straightforward because the housing snaps onto a 35 mm DIN rail, keeping the module aligned with adjacent I/O couplers. Any mounting orientation is permissible, allowing the junction to fit into tight cabinets or rotating machine frames while maintaining stable thermal performance.

Signal integrity across extended layouts is preserved by a maximum chain length of 61 m between junctions and a dedicated USB span of 50 m to the far-end device. Low-speed and full-speed peripherals are supported at 12 Mbit/s and 1.5 Mbit/s, respectively, under the USB 1.1 protocol. The enclosure is rated IP20, which is suitable for protected cabinet environments where the electronics are not exposed to dust ingress or dripping liquids. Once enumerated, the local logic consumes only 25 mA at 5 V DC, leaving ample current available for downstream loads. The signal path uses one RJ45 extender socket and one upstream Type B connector, while a separate USB/e line can source 150 mA at 15 V DC for devices that need auxiliary power. A one-meter patch cord is supplied for immediate cabinet-level hookup.