Product Description:

Beckhoff manufactures the EL3011, an analog input terminal in the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. The unit occupies one node on an EtherCAT segment and samples a single differential voltage channel so that controllers can monitor process variables without adding standalone instrumentation. Once clicked onto the 35 mm DIN rail beside other series members, the terminal forwards scaled data through the E-bus to the adjacent coupler, integrating sensor feedback directly into real-time automation routines used in packaging lines, presses, and material-handling equipment.

The analog front end handles one voltage input with a 1 kHz anti-aliasing filter that attenuates higher-frequency noise before conversion. A 12-bit successive-approximation ADC provides 12 bits of raw resolution, allowing 4,096 discrete steps across the selected measuring range. Full-scale accuracy stays within ±0.3% FS, so drift or offset remains minimal for process control. Operating power is supplied via the E-bus, eliminating extra wiring between adjacent terminals. Because the input stage is differential, common-mode interference between field wiring pairs is rejected, improving signal integrity in electrically noisy cabinets.

After conversion, the module writes status and data to the process image, allocating 2 bytes of flags and 2 bytes of numeric data per channel. This information is forwarded to the controller as a signed 16-bit word. Electrical isolation is not provided, so the input’s 10 V common-mode ceiling must be observed when connecting field devices. Housing apertures conform to the IP20 enclosure class, which protects against contact by fingers but requires installation inside a control box. Reliable operation is maintained at up to 95% non-condensing humidity, and simultaneous sampling provides time-coherent acquisition when multiple EL terminals operate together on the same rail.