The Beckhoff EL3314 is a versatile EtherCAT analog input terminal designed for temperature measurement using thermocouples. With four independent input channels, 16-bit resolution, and configurable performance settings, it provides accurate and efficient temperature acquisition for industrial and scientific applications.

Supporting a wide range of thermocouple types, the EL3314 enables engineers to capture temperature data from multiple sensors simultaneously. Each of the four inputs operates using 2-wire connection technology, simplifying wiring while ensuring secure and stable connections. This makes the module suitable for installations requiring multiple measurement points within a compact and modular design.

The terminal delivers 16-bit resolution, allowing precise digitisation of temperature signals. Its flexible data representation supports increments as fine as 0.01 °C or microvolt-level resolution (1/2/4 µV per digit), making it suitable for both broad-range monitoring and applications that demand high precision. For industries such as semiconductor production, laboratory testing, or energy management, this level of accuracy is critical.

One of the EL3314’s strengths lies in its configurable conversion time. Depending on the filter settings, the conversion time can range from 20 ms to 2.5 s. This allows engineers to optimise performance based on process requirements—using faster updates for dynamic systems and slower, filtered measurements for steady-state applications. The default conversion time of 250 ms provides a balance between accuracy and responsiveness.

In addition to temperature measurement, the EL3314 can also perform voltage measurements in ranges of ±30 mV, ±60 mV, and ±75 mV. This versatility extends its use beyond thermocouples, making it applicable for capturing small analog signals in test benches, calibration setups, and specialised monitoring systems.

As part of Beckhoff’s EtherCAT I/O system, the EL3314 benefits from seamless integration into modular automation architectures. Powered directly via the E-bus, it eliminates the need for separate supply wiring, reducing complexity. Its compact design saves cabinet space, while EtherCAT communication ensures fast, deterministic data transfer to controllers and supervisory systems.

The terminal also includes input filtering with a typical limit frequency of 1 kHz, which improves signal stability and reduces noise interference. Combined with Beckhoff’s industrial-grade engineering, the EL3314 delivers dependable performance even in environments with high electrical noise or demanding process conditions.

In real-world applications, the EL3314 is widely used in process industries, manufacturing, building automation, and research facilities. It supports precise monitoring of furnaces, HVAC systems, production lines, and experimental setups, where accurate temperature control is essential for quality and efficiency.

In summary, the Beckhoff EL3314 is a compact and high-performance 4-channel thermocouple input terminal for EtherCAT systems. With its 16-bit resolution, configurable conversion times, flexible voltage measurement capabilities, and rugged industrial design, it offers an accurate and reliable solution for advanced temperature monitoring and process automation.