KM2002 by Beckhoff

The KM2002 output terminal is built by Beckhoff for the KM Bus Terminals series. It occupies one slot on a standard DIN rail and extends a fieldbus coupler with a cluster of low-power switching channels that actuate distributed devices inside automated machinery. By concentrating multiple outputs in a single 12 mm housing, the module reduces panel wiring and enables compact expansion of decentralized I/O assemblies used in conveyor, packaging, and material-handling lines.

The terminal electronics are powered exclusively through the K-Bus and draw only 5 mA of internal supply current, so no additional wiring is required for the electronics. Each channel can switch field loads at a nominal supply of 24 VDC while sourcing up to 0.5 A per channel. The permissible load range includes resistive heaters, inductive solenoids, and lamp circuits, with a per-output inrush limit referenced by the 15 mA load-voltage monitoring current. Integrated protection detects overload and short-circuit conditions and automatically switches off the affected output to prevent damage. A front connector terminates eight outputs per tier, providing two rows of signals for efficient cable routing. Channel data are transferred across the backplane as a packed word that occupies 16 outputs in the controller image.

The housing snaps onto a 35 mm top-hat rail and supports installation in any orientation. Its protection rating is IP20, which helps prevent accidental finger contact with live parts when the cabinet door is open. Signal encoding uses a 16-bit word width, which aligns directly with the controller's process image and avoids additional software masking. Operation is permitted at relative humidity levels of up to 95% without condensation. This tolerance allows the terminal to operate in humid production areas, including bottling or washdown zones, when it is installed inside a suitable enclosure. The compact housing and flexible mounting position also help preserve space when several terminals are installed beside the fieldbus coupler.