BECKHOFF EP9214-0023 - Manual (Page 7)

Product overview
2 Product overview
2.1 EtherCAT Box - Introduction
The EtherCAT system has been extended with EtherCAT Box modules with protection class IP 67. Through
the integrated EtherCAT interface the modules can be connected directly to an EtherCAT network without an
additional Coupler Box. The high-performance of EtherCAT is thus maintained into each module.
The extremely low dimensions of only 126 x 30 x 26.5 mm (h x w x d) are identical to those of the Fieldbus
Box extension modules. They are thus particularly suitable for use where space is at a premium. The small
mass of the EtherCAT modules facilitates applications with mobile I/O interface (e.g. on a robot arm). The
EtherCAT connection is established via screened M8 connectors.
Fig. 1: EtherCAT Box Modules within an EtherCAT network
The robust design of the EtherCAT Box modules enables them to be used directly at the machine. Control
cabinets and terminal boxes are now no longer required. The modules are fully sealed and therefore ideally
prepared for wet, dirty or dusty conditions.
Pre-assembled cables significantly simplify EtherCAT and signal wiring. Very few wiring errors are made, so
that commissioning is optimized. In addition to pre-assembled EtherCAT, power and sensor cables, field-
configurable connectors and cables are available for maximum flexibility. Depending on the application, the
sensors and actuators are connected through M8 or M12 connectors.
The EtherCAT modules cover the typical range of requirements for I/O signals with protection class IP67:
• digital inputs with different filters (3.0 ms or 10 μs)
• digital outputs with 0.5 or 2 A output current
• analog inputs and outputs with 16 bit resolution
• Thermocouple and RTD inputs
• Stepper motor modules
XFC (eXtreme Fast Control Technology) modules, including inputs with time stamp, are also available.
EP9214-0023 and EP9224-0023 7 Version 2.0.0