KL1712 by Beckhoff

The KL1712 is an input terminal manufactured by Beckhoff for the KL Analog Input Modules series. It is installed on a Bus Terminal rack to route field signals into a controller without requiring external transducers. This arrangement is useful in compact industrial automation panels where channel density, organized wiring, and efficient use of enclosure space are priorities.

This module provides two inputs, allowing two separate sensors or switches to be monitored. Each channel uses a 4-wire connection, so the supply voltage and signal return are carried alongside the measurement lines. This connection method simplifies the wiring of powered field devices such as proximity sensors. The terminal has a switching time of 10 ms, allowing state changes to be reported to the PLC at intervals of that length. The housing has a width of 15 mm, a height of 100 mm, and a depth of 70 mm. These dimensions match neighboring KL terminals, allowing mixed racks to be assembled without spacer elements. The installation position is variable, so the unit can be mounted horizontally or vertically according to the available DIN rail space. Two signal LEDs on the front indicate the live state of the channels, making channel activity visible during operation and helping users locate field-side faults.

The terminal has an IP20 protection rating, making it finger-safe while requiring installation inside an enclosure for protection from dust, moisture, and other contaminants. Data sent to the controller occupies 2 input bits in the process image, conserving bus bandwidth in systems with many connected terminals. One bit corresponds to each channel state, which keeps the controller mapping compact and easy to interpret. Field wiring connects to screw contacts across 8 terminal points, providing separate clamping locations for the supply, return, and signal conductors associated with each input channel.