Product Description:

The Beckhoff EL3152 belongs to the EL EtherCAT Terminals series and functions as a two-channel analog input module for distributed control systems. Installed on a DIN rail beside other EtherCAT nodes, it converts single-ended 0–20 mA sensor currents into synchronized digital values that the PLC processes in real time. Acquiring field measurements directly on the EtherCAT segment supports compact machine layouts and reduces the wiring typically associated with centralized analog cards.

The terminal provides two single-ended current channels that are scanned through a simultaneous sampling circuit, so both values are captured without time skew. Each channel is digitized at a 16-bit resolution, offering 65,536 steps across the configured range. With EtherCAT Distributed Clocks active, timing jitter remains at << 1 µs, which supports synchronized motion or power-quality diagnostics. Input bandwidth can be limited to 5 kHz through an internal filter, balancing noise suppression against signal dynamics. The ground-referenced design has an input resistance of 85 Ω and a maximum input capacity of 40 mA. A dielectric strength of 30 V separates the field wiring from the logic supply, and clock signals are automatically aligned when Distributed Clocks are enabled.

Total conversion accuracy is < ±0.3% FS. After conversion, the data are mapped into a compact 2 × 16-bit + 2 × 8-bit process image, allowing the controller to read both measurements and status flags in one cycle. The ADC, filters, and EtherCAT ASIC draw an E-bus supply current of 170 mA from the backplane, eliminating the need for a separate external power feed. The module carries an IP20 rating and therefore requires installation inside a control cabinet. Its standard terminal housing permits placement beside other EL terminals on the same DIN rail.