EL2912 by Beckhoff

The EL2912 is a safety digital output terminal produced by Beckhoff for the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. Intended for machine and plant automation, it mounts on a DIN rail beside standard I/O terminals and exchanges process data over the EtherCAT backplane. The module interrupts actuator power under fault or emergency conditions, allowing protective functions to reside directly in the fieldbus terminal row instead of requiring separate relay blocks. Flexible wiring options allow either supply line to be interrupted while the module retains the same 12 mm housing width as neighboring terminals.

The output stage requires a 24 V DC supply, and the terminal can deliver up to 2 A per channel, supporting contactors, indicator lamps, or solenoids without auxiliary relays. Connection follows a 1-wire topology, which allows each load to connect through a single switched conductor and reduces the required terminal block count. With an IP20 rating, the housing prevents finger access and blocks foreign objects larger than 12.5 mm, making it suitable for installation in protected control cabinets. The output circuitry supports resistive, inductive, and lamp loads, allowing the module to switch heaters, coil-operated devices, and filament lamps. This compatibility accounts for the distinct electrical behavior of each supported load type, including inductive switching effects and lamp inrush current.

The terminal contains 2 safe outputs that disconnect load power when they are de-energized. Its PL e rating places the terminal at the highest performance level for the probability of dangerous failure, while its SIL 3 classification confirms suitability for demanding functional safety applications. These ratings allow the terminal to operate in stop and shutdown circuits for high-risk machinery while sharing the EtherCAT communication line with standard terminals. Diagnostic communication through the terminal row supports centralized monitoring of output status and detected faults. The narrow housing also allows the safety outputs to be positioned close to conventional I/O modules within a protected enclosure.