The Beckhoff EL3202 is a precise and reliable 2-channel analog input EtherCAT Terminal designed for direct connection of resistance temperature detectors (RTDs). Supporting both Pt100 and Ni sensors, the EL3202 enables accurate temperature acquisition across a wide range of industrial and building automation applications.

Each of the two channels provides high-resolution 16-bit measurement, delivering finely detailed and stable temperature values for process monitoring and control. The terminal supports a broad temperature range of -200…+850 °C for Pt sensors and -60…+250 °C for Ni sensors, making it suitable for applications ranging from cryogenic monitoring to high-temperature industrial processes.

The EL3202 offers flexible 2-wire and 3-wire connection methods, with 2-wire as the default setting. This adaptability ensures compatibility with a wide variety of sensor wiring schemes while helping to reduce installation effort. For longer cable runs or higher accuracy requirements, the 3-wire connection method compensates for line resistance, further improving measurement precision.

A key advantage of the EL3202 is its configurable conversion time, which ranges from 2 ms to 800 ms (default approx. 85 ms). This allows engineers to balance between fast updates for dynamic processes and slower, filtered measurements for stable signals. Combined with the integrated input filter (typ. 1 kHz), the module ensures noise-immune signal acquisition in electrically demanding environments.

To safeguard sensors and maintain long-term reliability, the terminal uses a low measuring current of < 0.5 mA, reducing self-heating effects that can distort temperature readings. This careful design ensures accurate and consistent measurements over the lifetime of the connected RTD sensors.

Like all Beckhoff EL series terminals, the EL3202 is powered via the E-bus, simplifying wiring and installation. Its compact housing and modular EtherCAT format allow easy integration alongside other digital, analog, and specialty terminals, enabling tailored I/O configurations without wasting cabinet space.

Configuration, diagnostics, and monitoring are managed through Beckhoff TwinCAT software, which provides transparency into sensor status and measurement data. Engineers benefit from straightforward commissioning and maintenance, as well as the ability to detect and resolve sensor issues quickly.

In practical use, the EL3202 is ideal for process control, HVAC systems, machine temperature monitoring, food and beverage production, and laboratory environments. Its accuracy, flexibility, and compact form factor make it an excellent choice for any automation system requiring reliable RTD-based temperature measurement.

In summary, the Beckhoff EL3202 is a versatile and high-performance 2-channel RTD input terminal. With 16-bit resolution, wide temperature ranges, flexible wiring options, configurable conversion times, and integrated noise filtering, it provides engineers with a dependable solution for precise temperature acquisition in EtherCAT-based automation systems.