Product Description:

The EP3174-0002 analog input module is manufactured by Beckhoff and belongs to the EP Digital Input Modules series. Designed for decentralized EtherCAT installations, the device converts differential voltage or current signals from sensors into bus data that a controller can evaluate for motion, process, or safety tasks on the factory floor. By embedding signal conditioning in a compact field enclosure, it reduces cabinet wiring and supports modular machine expansion.

Each of the four differential channels is sampled with a 100 µs conversion time, giving the controller fresh data at a 10 kHz rate. The front end quantizes signals with 16-bit resolution, including sign, allowing precise representation of bipolar measurements. A built-in low-pass network enforces a 5 kHz filter bandwidth, so high-frequency noise is attenuated before digitization. Communication integrity is maintained by 500 V network isolation between the sensor circuitry and the EtherCAT ring, while the module provides 2 x M8 EtherCAT ports for in-line topology. Additional protection allows operation up to 35 V common-mode, and sensor wiring terminates on four M12 five-pin sockets so the differential architecture can help minimize ground loops across long runs.

The module draws its logic power from a 24 VDC supply and typically consumes 120 mA, a level that allows multiple nodes on one fused branch. Field cables may extend to 30 m without degrading signal quality because the differential receivers and input resistances are matched to the intended sensor type. In current mode, the input presents an 85 Ω current path ahead of the diode clamp, while voltage mode uses a 200 kΩ voltage path, so loading on instrumentation remains low. With measurement uncertainty limited to 0.3% FS, the device provides repeatable feedback for common automation loops without separate signal conditioners.