EPP2334-0061 by Beckhoff

The EPP2334-0061 is a digital I/O box manufactured by Beckhoff for the EPP EtherCAT P Box Modules series. It mounts directly on machinery and links to the controller through a daisy-chainable P-coded trunk that combines EtherCAT communication with a 24 V supply. Field wiring uses M8 sockets dedicated to signal lines, while network continuity passes through two 4-pin, P-coded M8 ports on the enclosure. The module translates localized sensor or actuator states into deterministic EtherCAT telegrams in distributed automation layouts.

The device offers 4 configurable channels that can be selected individually as IEC Type 3 inputs or high-side transistor outputs. Each output can supply a maximum of 0.5 A per channel, provided the total load current does not exceed 3.0 A for the entire device. The power stage draws electricity from the UP rail at 24 V DC, ensuring direct compatibility with standard control supplies. A typical 50 µs turn-on time lets valves or contactors engage within one bus cycle, while the corresponding turn-off delay is 100 µs to minimize residual energy. The input circuitry complies with EN 61131-2 Type 3 thresholds, allowing sensors to be connected directly without level converters.

During operation, the logic section is stabilized by the US rail at 24 V DC and consumes only 6 mA at 24 V DC, which permits long node chains without overloading the feeder. An internal hardware debounce time of 10 µs cleans incoming signals before they reach the EtherCAT core, preserving timing precision. Each output channel incorporates electronic protection that limits the fault current to a maximum of 1.5 A per channel until the controller reacts. The same high-side stage can provide up to 0.5 A of total sensor power. The enclosure measures only 30 × 86 × 22 mm, supporting installation on grippers, indexing tables, or mobile carriages where space is limited.