Product Description:

The EPP1018-0002 is a digital input box module manufactured by Beckhoff for the EPP EtherCAT P Box Modules series. It serves as a decentralized interface that sends the state of eight field inputs directly to an EtherCAT master while sharing communication and operating power over one hybrid connection. Mounting I/O close to sensors helps shorten machine wiring, reduce the number of home-run cables, and keep distributed installations easier to route in packaging, assembly, and material-handling equipment. Each channel follows IEC input behavior, so inductive and photoelectric sensors can be monitored for counting, presence detection, interlocking, and other fast-switching tasks.

The housing measures 30 x 126 x 26.5 mm, which helps the module fit into narrow mounting areas near moving machine sections. EtherCAT P and supply power enter through two M8 sockets with 4-pin connectors, allowing simple line continuation to adjacent modules. Field devices connect through four M12 sockets, and each input requires only 6 mA at 24 VDC, which keeps the sensor load low. A digital filter of 10 µs helps clean up short disturbances and contact bounce before status changes are forwarded to the controller, while the pass-through power arrangement leaves the auxiliary feed available for devices farther down the line.

The enclosure is made of PA6 (polyamide), a material that provides good toughness for everyday industrial use and helps protect the internal electronics from common shop-floor exposure. The integrated sensor supply supports up to 0.5 A total, and the module leaves as much as 3 A available on the Us line for downstream devices. Its sinking inputs comply with Type 3 according to EN 61131-2, which supports compatibility with common 24-volt proximity sensors and similar switching devices. This input behavior helps the module fit into control systems that rely on predictable signal thresholds and stable input recognition.