Product Description:

The EL2004 digital output terminal is produced by Beckhoff within the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. Acting as an interface between a control system and field actuators, it distributes switching signals to solenoids, relays, and indicator lamps on a machine line. Through EtherCAT, it occupies a single slot in the I/O station and receives its operating logic and supply over the internal E-bus, so no separate subsystem wiring is required. Its compact housing and rail mounting allow close packing in control cabinets, supporting high channel density where panel space is limited.

Each terminal draws an E-bus supply of 100 mA, which powers the onboard logic and LED status indicators without burdening the field 24 V line. The power side delivers a nominal output of 24 VDC, which is the voltage that appears on the channel pins when a bit in the controller image is set. Per-channel sourcing capability reaches 0.5 A, permitting direct driving of coils or lamps without intermediate relays. With 4 independent outputs, the module matches common sensor-actuator groupings found in packaging and material-handling cells. Fast response is ensured by switching times of TON 60 µs / TOFF 300 µs, so actuators follow command changes with minimal delay. The housing meets protection class IP20, indicating finger-safe terminals intended for enclosed cabinet installation.

To deal with inductive loads, the output stage absorbs up to 150 mJ/channel of switch-off energy, protecting the driver transistors and limiting voltage overshoot during de-energization. The module snaps onto a 35 mm mounting rail and integrates with DIN rail power distribution, while the power-contact feed carries only 15 mA typical, leaving most current capacity for field devices. Its process image occupies 4 output bits, so the PLC writes the entire terminal with a single operation, keeping bus traffic low. Support for ohmic, inductive, and lamp loads broadens its use in decentralized EtherCAT stations.