Product Description:

The EPP2338-1002 is an eight-channel digital I/O box module produced by Beckhoff within the EPP EtherCAT P Box Modules series. Designed for decentralized machine architectures, the unit combines power and real-time communication on a single EtherCAT P line, allowing sensors and actuators to be mounted directly on the equipment. By converting field-level switching signals into EtherCAT telegrams, it reduces control cabinet wiring and supports compact installation on conveyors, packaging machines, and assembly systems. Its layout is suited to applications where distributed I/O must remain close to the process without adding separate local power wiring.

The molded PA6 enclosure has overall dimensions of 30 mm × 126 mm × 26.5 mm and weighs 165 g, so it fits on narrow machine profiles and light mounting structures. Field devices receive supply potential UP through two P-coded M8 sockets, and each of the eight outputs can source up to 0.5 A per channel at a stabilized 24 VDC from UP. When all channels are active, the module itself draws just 6 mA at 24 VDC, which helps limit the load on the upstream power feed. Signal lines terminate on four M12 sockets, while the EtherCAT P daisy chain uses two shielded, four-pin M8 connectors, and a maximum line length of 30 m between modules allows flexible placement along the machine.

Timing and protection characteristics support predictable signal handling during operation. A shared sensor rail limits consumption to 0.5 A total, while each load path trips at 1.5 A per channel to help prevent wiring damage. Mechanical contact bounce is filtered before the bus image is updated, and the output drivers switch within 50 µs typ. after a set command and return to a safe state within 100 µs typ.. The shared sensor supply maintains a common reference potential for encoders and proximity switches without requiring additional local power taps.