The Beckhoff EL2502 is a versatile 2-channel PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) output EtherCAT Terminal, designed to deliver precise and efficient control of electrical loads within automation systems. With its compact design and advanced PWM functionality, the EL2502 is an essential component for applications requiring fine-grained output control, such as motor drives, heating elements, and dimmable lighting.

Operating at a nominal voltage of 24 V DC (-15%/+20%), the EL2502 provides two independent PWM channels, each capable of delivering an output current of up to 0.5 A. The outputs are short-circuit proof, with a typical short-circuit current of less than 1.5 A, ensuring robust operation even in the event of wiring errors or load faults. This reliability makes the terminal suitable for continuous operation in demanding industrial environments.

One of the EL2502’s most important features is its flexible base frequency range, which spans from 1 Hz to 125 kHz. With a default setting of 250 Hz, the terminal accommodates a wide variety of applications, from slow-switching processes such as heating control to high-frequency requirements like precision motor control. Engineers can easily configure the frequency to match the needs of their specific system, ensuring both performance and efficiency.

The PWM outputs provide full duty cycle control from 0% to 100%, allowing for precise modulation of power delivered to the load. With a minimum pulse duration (TON) of 750 ns and pause duration (TOFF) of 500 ns, the EL2502 guarantees accurate timing and stable signal output across the full frequency range. This level of control enables fine-tuned regulation of actuators, lamps, or solenoids.

Thanks to its push-pull output technology, the EL2502 ensures stable and reliable switching behaviour, reducing signal distortion and improving performance across varying load types. It supports ohmic, inductive, and lamp loads, making it suitable for diverse automation applications without requiring specialised output modules.

As part of Beckhoff’s EtherCAT I/O system, the EL2502 integrates seamlessly into modular architectures. Powered via the EtherCAT E-bus, it provides deterministic, high-speed communication with controllers, ensuring synchronised operation with other I/O terminals and field devices. Engineers benefit from full configurability and diagnostic visibility through TwinCAT software, enabling straightforward commissioning and monitoring of output performance.

In practice, the EL2502 is widely used in motion control, lighting dimming, proportional valve operation, and heating element control, where PWM signals provide energy-efficient and precise regulation. Its ability to combine compact design, robust protection, and advanced PWM functionality makes it a flexible and cost-effective solution for automation projects.

In summary, the Beckhoff EL2502 is a powerful and reliable 2-channel PWM output terminal for EtherCAT systems. With its configurable frequency range, full-duty cycle control, push-pull outputs, and robust protection features, it enables engineers to implement fine-grained load control in a wide variety of industrial and building automation applications.