Product Description:

The EL4022-0000 is an analog output terminal manufactured by Beckhoff and assigned to the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. It fits directly into an EtherCAT I/O segment and translates bus data into controlled current outputs, letting a PLC drive actuators or transducers without separate signal conditioners. Because the terminal follows EtherCAT timing, it adds high-resolution analog functionality to distributed automation systems where cabinet space and fast installation are important. This makes it useful for machines that need stable current references near the point of use instead of routing every signal back to a larger central module.

Each channel sources a control signal of 4 to 20 mA, a range widely used for closed-loop field instrumentation. Conversion resolution is 12-bit, giving 4096 discrete steps for smooth setpoint changes. Power is supplied through 24 VDC power contacts, so no extra supply wiring is required. The output circuit maintains a measuring deviation of less than ±0.1% FS and can drive loads of up to 500 Ω without clipping. Distributed clocks support sub-microsecond synchronization, and the single-ended ground reference keeps wiring simple in star-grounded control panels.

Continuous operation is allowed from −25 °C to +60 °C, while storage from -40 °C to +85 °C protects inactive units during normal warehouse handling. The internal converter uses a Multiplex method, and both outputs can operate below 55 °C; above that temperature, only one output should be used at a time. The process image is fixed as 2 x 16-bit AO output, which gives the controller deterministic access to each transmitted value across the EtherCAT network. External temperature drift remains within ±0.2% of full scale. The module provides 2 analog channels in a 12 mm housing, which helps conserve space in compact control cabinets.