The Beckhoff EL3124 EtherCAT Terminal is a high-performance 4-channel analog input module designed for precise and reliable current measurement in industrial automation systems. Supporting the industry-standard 4…20 mA signal range, the EL3124 is ideal for acquiring sensor signals from transmitters, flow meters, pressure devices, and other analog instrumentation commonly used in process automation.

Each of the four channels operates with 16-bit resolution (including sign), ensuring that even the smallest variations in current signals are captured accurately. This level of precision supports tight process control and accurate monitoring, enabling automation engineers to maintain high system performance and product quality.

The EL3124 is designed for speed as well as accuracy. With a conversion time of approximately 100 µs per channel, it allows fast and simultaneous acquisition of signals, making it particularly well suited for dynamic applications where rapid updates are essential. Industries such as packaging, robotics, and high-speed machinery benefit from this responsiveness, as do process applications requiring real-time signal tracking.

Robust input design further enhances performance. The terminal features an internal resistance of approximately 85 Ω plus a diode voltage drop, providing stable measurement characteristics. Its differential input technology and tolerance for common-mode voltages up to 10 V ensure reliable signal acquisition, even in noisy or electrically harsh industrial environments. Additionally, the integrated 5 kHz input filter helps suppress unwanted noise while maintaining signal integrity, making the module well-suited for both fast-changing and stable signal applications.

Power is supplied via the E-bus, simplifying installation and integration into Beckhoff’s modular EtherCAT I/O system. Measurement values are mapped directly into the process image, allowing the control system to access them immediately without additional configuration. This plug-and-play capability reduces engineering effort and speeds up commissioning.

With four channels packed into a single terminal, the EL3124 offers excellent channel density, saving cabinet space and reducing wiring complexity. This compact efficiency makes it cost-effective for systems that require multiple analog current measurements while maintaining a small physical footprint.

The EL3124 is well suited for a wide range of industrial applications, from process automation (temperature, pressure, and flow measurement via current transmitters) to machine automation (capturing current-controlled signals from actuators or sensors). Its combination of speed, precision, and robustness ensures reliable performance across diverse industries.

In summary, the Beckhoff EL3124 EtherCAT Terminal provides a compact, accurate, and high-speed solution for acquiring analog current signals. With four differential 4…20 mA channels, 16-bit resolution, fast conversion, and noise-immune design, it is an essential component for precision-driven automation systems requiring dependable analog input performance.