The Beckhoff EL1004 EtherCAT Terminal is a compact and efficient digital input module designed to acquire binary signals from field devices in industrial automation systems. With four input channels, it provides reliable signal acquisition for devices such as switches, push buttons, limit sensors, and other 24 V DC digital sources.

Engineered to meet the EN 61131-2 specification (types 1 and 3), the EL1004 ensures full compatibility with widely used industrial sensors and input devices. Each input operates at a nominal voltage of 24 V DC, with an acceptable tolerance range of –15% to +20%, making it suitable for use in environments where voltage fluctuations may occur. With a typical input current of 3 mA (type 3), the module offers energy-efficient signal detection without compromising performance.

Signal integrity is safeguarded by the terminal’s integrated input filter, which provides a typical filtering response time of 3.0 ms. This feature helps eliminate unwanted noise and transient spikes, ensuring only valid signals are transmitted to the control system. In industrial environments where electrical interference is common, this filtering capability is essential for accurate and stable system operation.

The EL1004 uses 2-wire connection technology, simplifying wiring and installation. This practical design reduces cabling effort and makes it easy to integrate into distributed I/O systems. Additionally, the module has a low current consumption of approximately 2 mA plus load via the power contacts, making it efficient to deploy even in large-scale installations with many terminals.

As part of the EtherCAT I/O system, the EL1004 benefits from Beckhoff’s high-speed, deterministic communication protocol. It ensures that input states are transmitted to the controller in real time, supporting precise synchronisation with other I/O terminals and devices across the network. This makes it particularly well suited to applications where responsiveness and accuracy are critical, such as machine automation, packaging systems, and process monitoring.

The compact design of the EL1004 allows for efficient use of control cabinet space, while its modular architecture supports easy expansion of digital input capacity. Engineers can seamlessly combine it with other Beckhoff digital, analogue, or safety terminals to create customised I/O solutions tailored to specific application requirements.

In summary, the Beckhoff EL1004 is a reliable and efficient digital input terminal that combines compact design with robust performance. With four channels, integrated noise filtering, standards compliance, and EtherCAT connectivity, it provides a dependable solution for digital signal acquisition in modern automation environments.