Product Description:

The EL2042 is a 24 V DC digital output terminal produced by Beckhoff for the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. As a compact two-channel module, it mounts on a DIN rail alongside other I/O slices and operates as an EtherCAT slave connected to the automation controller. The terminal switches discrete loads, such as coils, indicator lamps, and resistive devices, directly from the fieldbus so output points can be distributed without separate relays or wiring marshalling panels.

It drives field devices at a nominal output level of 24 V DC, matching the standard control voltage used in most machinery enclosures. Each channel can source up to 4 A per channel, so solenoid valves or LED stacks with moderate inrush current can be energized without external amplifiers, while the common feed permits a combined current of 8 A when both outputs are active. The internal logic and optoelectronics draw only 120 mA from the E-bus, leaving power available for additional terminals on the same segment. The IP20 housing protects against contact with hazardous internal parts but requires installation inside a closed cabinet. The terminal supports resistive, inductive, and lamp loads, and the supply rails on the power contacts add 13 mA plus the current required by the switched load.

The terminal provides two outputs, which occupy a total of 2 output bits in the controller’s process image and enable direct on-off control through the EtherCAT master. Turn-on behavior is quick, with a high signal reaching the load in approximately 40 µs, while de-energizing takes approximately 200 µs to support accurate timing during high-speed machine cycles. Integrated reverse-voltage protection prevents incorrect wiring from damaging the output transistors. A switch-off path designed for inductive loads suppresses energy feedback into the supply when a connected load is de-energized. This protection reduces electrical stress on the terminal and the power distribution rail during repeated switching operations.