Product Description:

The EL4134 is a four-channel analog output module manufactured by Beckhoff as part of the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. It occupies a single 12 mm slot on the EtherCAT rail and generates voltage signals referenced to a single-ended ground, allowing PLCs to drive actuators, proportional valves, or test equipment directly from the I/O rack. In an automation cell, the terminal exchanges process data across the E-bus, so the backplane carries logic power and communication without separate field wiring for those functions.

With distributed clocks turned off, each channel can refresh at up to 4 kSps; enabling clock synchronization sets the maximum rate at 2.5 kSps. The minimum EtherCAT cycle time mirrors these limits, dropping to 250 µs without clock synchronization and extending to 400 µs when time-stamped updates are active. A 16-bit delta-sigma converter provides a resolution of 16 bits, giving the module fine setpoint granularity for servo positioning, dosing, and other analog control tasks. Both the electronics and output stage draw their operating power through the E-bus backplane, which eliminates external supply jumpers and simplifies wiring within the terminal assembly.

The terminal’s process image occupies 4 × 16-bit words, providing one 16-bit process value for each analog output channel. Each of the four outputs can source or sink currents up to 40 mA while remaining protected against short circuits. Conversion for all channels occurs simultaneously, so load-dependent transients do not create timing differences among the output points. The enclosure has an IP20 protection rating, making the terminal suitable for installation inside a closed control cabinet. Automatic short-circuit shutdown protects the output circuitry against wiring faults, while single-ended grounding provides a common reference for the connected voltage signals. Distributed clock support allows synchronized output updates when coordinated timing is required across multiple EtherCAT devices.