Product Description:

Beckhoff manufactures the EL3204-0000 temperature measurement terminal within the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. The module occupies a single slot in an EtherCAT I/O station and translates resistance values from Pt100, Pt200, Pt500, Pt1000, Ni100, Ni120, and Ni1000 sensors into digital temperatures for closed-loop control. By aggregating real-time process data at the field level, it helps automation controllers maintain precise thermal profiles in packaging, HVAC, and material processing equipment.

The conversion chain is based on a Delta-Sigma ADC, selected for high noise immunity and linearity when reading low-level RTD signals. Sampling is organized in a multiplex sequence, so each channel is scanned rapidly without simultaneous converters. With a native resolution of 0.1 °C/digit, the terminal can capture fine temperature changes that matter to energy-sensitive processes. Field wiring follows a 2-wire technique, simplifying installation where lead resistance can be software-compensated. The unit provides a continuous current source to excite the sensors and uses a single-ended ground reference to streamline shielding. It presents 4 inputs to the process image, which appears to the controller as 16 bytes of input data. Operating power is drawn automatically via the E-bus, eliminating separate supply wiring.

In the cabinet, the terminal measures 12 mm in width, 68 mm in depth, and 100 mm in height, so channel density remains high even in narrow control panels. It snaps onto a 35 mm DIN rail, and the spring contacts on the foot engage the rail to bond the ground path. The molded housing carries an IP20 rating, marking it for clean, dry environments without conductive dust. Internal routing over the EtherCAT backplane limits external connection points, and the single-ended design keeps overall enclosure heat low despite the multiplex activity.