Product Description:

The IE2300 is an industrial I/O extension box produced by Beckhoff within the IE Extension Box Units series. This compact module serves as a field-level interface that collects sensor signals and actuates loads near the machine, reducing cabinet wiring in distributed automation architectures. It transfers process data to higher-level controllers while withstanding on-machine conditions in packaging, assembly, and material-handling equipment.

Inside the housing, the unit provides four inputs and four outputs, so a controller can map four discrete sensors to four switching channels in one device. All circuitry is referenced to a 24 V DC supply, the typical control voltage for machinery, which simplifies power distribution. Each input draws only 6 mA, allowing long cable runs without excessive voltage drop. An internal filter with a response time of 3.0 ms suppresses contact bounce before the signal reaches the PLC process image. When driving actuators, the module can source up to 0.5 A per channel; this rating supports small solenoids or indicator lamps without an external relay. The process image is structured as four input bits and four output bits, matching the physical channel count.

For continuous duty, each output may consume 20 mA per channel, a value used when calculating the total current demand for the segment supply. A built-in electronic fuse limits fault current to 1.5 A, minimizing the risk of a fault affecting adjacent devices. Sensors and loads connect to an 8 mm snap-on signal interface. Upstream and downstream power is routed through one M8 feed and one M8 downstream connector, which support daisy-chain topologies. Fieldbus isolation keeps network-side transients from reaching the sensor electronics, while reverse-polarity protection helps prevent damage caused by incorrect power connections during installation. The output stage accepts resistive, inductive, or lamp loads. A sensor supply limit of 0.5 A per channel protects connected field devices from excessive current.