Product Description:

Beckhoff manufactures the EL3356-0010 as part of the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. This terminal is a single-channel measurement module that digitizes low-level bridge sensor signals for closed-loop control tasks in industrial automation. It accepts one resistive bridge and forwards time-stamped data across the EtherCAT fieldbus, allowing synchronous acquisition alongside other I/O modules located in the same network. Because measurement data travels with adjacent terminal signals, the unit suits compact control cabinets that require synchronized weighing or force feedback.

The module processes sensors that use a full-bridge topology and can accommodate signal swings up to ±27 mV around zero. A delta-sigma converter with 24-bit resolution transforms each differential input so that very small load variations remain discernible. Sampling can be executed at up to 10,000 samples/s; at this rate a complete measuring cycle occupies only 100 µs, supporting fast control loops. The integrated calibration chain limits linearity and gain deviation to <±0.01%. Those electrical functions are enclosed in a 12 mm × 100 mm × 68 mm housing, and an analog input filter with a 10 kHz cutoff suppresses high-frequency interference before conversion.

The terminal’s reference source can be driven across a ±13.8 V window. Bridge excitation flows through an internal path whose resistance exceeds 200 kΩ for Uref and 1 MΩ for Ud, minimizing loading errors. Parameter tuning is possible down to 0.01 µV/V for fine sensor adaptation. Clock-synchronized telegrams are supported through the Distributed Clocks feature, assuring nanosecond-level alignment with neighboring axes. A maximum supply of 12 V DC powers the analog front end, while the communication side draws its energy from the EtherCAT backplane. Environmental protection meets IP20, suiting cabinet installation, and the device handles exactly one resistive bridge so channel planning stays clear.