Product Description:

The EK1914 is an EtherCAT coupler manufactured by Beckhoff as part of the EK EtherCAT Couplers series. Serving as the first node in a terminal string, it converts high-speed fieldbus telegrams into local I/O updates so that digital signals from sensors and actuators can be exchanged deterministically with the PLC. By combining standard and safety channels in one device, the coupler streamlines wiring and shortens response paths in industrial automation cells that demand synchronized motion, interlocked guarding, and compact control cabinets.

Two network sockets arranged in a daisy chain use 2 x RJ45 connections, providing the real-time link and line continuation for additional nodes. The electronics and field circuits share a protective extra-low-voltage supply of 24 V DC, keeping signal levels consistent with PELV requirements. Physical space inside a control cabinet is minimized by the housing size of 44 mm × 100 mm × 68 mm, allowing dense mounting next to standard Bus Terminals. A built-in digital filter of 500 µs suppresses contact bounce on the four standard input channels so the controller receives debounced states without extra software delays. Typical system latency from a safe input change to the corresponding safe output actuation is 4 ms, which supports rapid stop functions when integrated with drives or contactors.

The functional safety layer complies with PL e according to ISO 13849-1, and the module therefore provides two independent safe inputs and two safe semiconductor outputs for emergency-stop circuits. In the event of internal faults, the probability of a dangerous failure per hour is limited to 2.64 × 10⁻⁹, meeting Category 4 architectures when used with certified wiring. Each safe output can source up to 500 mA, while standard channels are limited to 0.5 A, enabling direct switching of contactors and indicator loads without relays. Environmental ingress is restricted by the IP20 enclosure, so the coupler must be housed inside a cabinet with controlled ambient conditions.