Product Description

EP2308-0002 is a feature-rich EtherCAT box module with digital outputs and inputs. The box has built-in EtherCAT interfaces, one for upstream and one for the downstream direction. Boxes can be daisy-chained and deployed for a wide range of industrial applications. With extremely compact dimensions of just 126 x 30 x 26.5 millimeters, the module matches the size of the Fieldbus Box extension modules, making it ideal for space-constrained environments. The lightweight design enhances usability in applications with mobile I/O interfaces, such as those found on robotic arms. The EtherCAT connection is made through shielded M8 connectors. The box has a robust housing made of polyamide, which allows installation directly at the machine. With IP65 protection, operators can deploy the box at the machine without any cabinets or terminal boxes.

Beckhoff supplies pre-assembled cables for EtherCAT, power and sensors to speed up installation and commissioning. Outputs on the EP2308-0002 box can process up to 2 Amps current. Protection against reverse polarity and short circuits is available on the output channels. The box supports 2 input channel per M12 socket. The maximum cable length for input connections is 30 meters. Signals between -3 to 5 Volts correspond to a binary 0, and signals between 11 and 30 correspond to a binary 1. The typical input current is 6 milliamps. The box supplies 24 Volts DC for the connected sensors and 0.5 Amps total. Each M12 connector on the box supports two outputs. The nominal output voltage is 24 Volts DC, the output per channel is 0.5 Amps and the maximum output for all channels is 4 Amps. The typical ON state changeover time is 50 microseconds.