EL1852 by Beckhoff

The EL1852 is a combined digital input and output terminal supplied by Beckhoff within the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. Designed for decentralized control cabinets, the unit occupies a single slot on an EtherCAT station and exchanges bit-level process data with the bus controller. By providing eight input channels and eight output channels, it allows PLC programs to monitor sensors and actuate loads through the same terminal without additional wiring hardware in compact machine or building automation systems.

Each input path typically draws 3 mA from the field side and uses a 3 ms filter to suppress contact bounce before transferring the state to the controller. Outputs are energized from the same 24 V supply, and each channel can source up to 0.5 A per channel. The outputs have a typical rise time of 60 µs and a typical fall time of 300 µs. Internal electronics receive power through the E-bus, with typical consumption remaining at 100 mA to stay within backplane limits. The terminal supports a nominal input voltage of 24 VDC and includes reverse-voltage protection to guard against wiring errors. Its channels occupy a compact 16-bit process image for data exchange with the controller.

The I/O is presented through two 10-pin male connectors that comply with the IEC 60603-13 standard, allowing ribbon-style harnesses to plug directly into the terminal. Mechanical mounting uses a 35 mm rail that conforms to EN 60715, so the module can be installed in common control cabinets without tools. The IP20 housing protects against finger contact and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm when the unit is installed inside an enclosure. The EL1852 shares the uniform dimensions of related Beckhoff terminals, allowing adjacent modules to be stacked closely while keeping signal paths short. A spring tab releases the terminal from the rail, and keyed connectors help prevent reverse insertion.