Product Description:

The EL2502 is a digital output terminal produced by Beckhoff within the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. It provides two pulse-width-modulated outputs that can switch loads directly from the E-bus supplied fieldbus coupler. In machine and plant automation, the unit allows precise power modulation of valves, contactors, or lighting elements while remaining synchronized with the real-time EtherCAT network. By combining power electronics and field wiring in a slim housing, the terminal can replace separate PWM controllers and help conserve cabinet space.

The terminal operates from a nominal supply of 24 V DC, and each channel can deliver up to 0.5 A per channel, allowing direct actuation of ohmic, inductive, or lamp loads without intermediate relays. The module provides 2 channels, and each one is driven by a PWM push-pull output stage so the duty cycle can be adjusted for proportional power control. Inside the EtherCAT process image, the device occupies a 2 × 16-bit process image, so each update carries a 16-bit duty-cycle value together with a 16-bit control word. Because the electronics draw their logic power from the E-bus, no extra terminal-level power wiring is required, and reverse-polarity protection helps shield the circuitry from wiring errors.

The terminal has power contacts rated for 10 A, so adjacent high-current terminals can share the same feeder without separate distribution blocks. Installation is on a 35 mm DIN rail, and the polycarbonate housing measures 12 × 100 × 68 mm, which supports dense stacking inside shallow control panels while keeping terminal access straightforward. With an IP20 protection rating, the terminal is intended for cabinet installation and should be mounted in a dry enclosure. This arrangement suits control cabinets where the surrounding enclosure provides the additional protection needed for field wiring and connected loads.