EL9189 by Beckhoff

The EL9189 is a power distribution EtherCAT terminal from Beckhoff in the EL EtherCAT Terminals series. It distributes system supply and reference lines to neighboring I/O slices, simplifying wiring inside control cabinets. When installed beside analog or digital modules, the terminal feeds low-voltage loads while preserving the deterministic timing required in industrial automation systems.

The terminal carries a continuous current of <= 10 A, allowing several peripheral terminals to draw power without an external distribution block. Its permissible supply voltage is <= 60 VDC, making the module suitable for the 24 V and 48 V control circuits commonly used in machinery. The terminal provides 16 feed-through connections that divide the supply among connected conductors. Internal copper bars with enhanced load capacity help minimize voltage drop across the distribution path. Despite its branching function, the enclosure is only 12 mm wide and locks onto a 35 mm DIN rail for standard cabinet mounting. Solid, stranded, and ferruled conductors are supported, allowing the terminal to accommodate common control-cabinet wiring. Each channel passes the incoming 0 V reference potential, while the absence of a PE contact prevents unintended protective-earth loops.

The IP20 protection rating makes the terminal suitable for enclosed panels where protection from accidental finger contact and solid debris is required, but water sealing is unnecessary. It supports a variable installation position, allowing horizontal or vertical orientation without derating. Solid conductors use the Direct Plug-In technique, enabling them to be inserted without separate tool operation. Multi-strand conductors are secured by a Spring Actuation clamp that provides a vibration-resistant termination. Ferrules can be used to preserve strand integrity and simplify insertion when flexible wiring is required. These connection methods support orderly field wiring while keeping the terminal compact enough for densely populated control cabinets.