The Beckhoff EM3712 EtherCAT Terminal is a compact, high-performance analogue input module designed for monitoring relative pressure in automation systems. With two independent measurement channels, it provides engineers with a reliable and decentralised solution for pressure sensing across a variety of industrial and building automation applications.

The module measures pressures in the range of –1000 to +1000 hPa (–1…+1 bar), making it suitable for low-pressure monitoring, vacuum applications, and processes where precise atmospheric or relative pressure tracking is essential. Its measurement capability is finely detailed, with a resolution of 1 hPa (1 mbar) per digit, allowing accurate data collection for both monitoring and control tasks.

Built with robust overload protection, the EM3712 can withstand pressures up to 5000 hPa (5 bar) without sustaining damage. This safety margin provides peace of mind when used in environments where pressure spikes may occur, ensuring reliable long-term operation.

One of the terminal’s key advantages is its high-speed measuring capability. With a typical measurement cycle of just 4 ms, it captures rapidly changing pressure values with minimal delay, supporting dynamic processes such as vacuum control, pneumatic regulation, or leak detection. The measurement uncertainty is just 3% relative to the full-scale value, offering a good balance between speed and precision for a wide range of applications.

Integration into automation systems is seamless thanks to the EtherCAT E-bus interface. The EM3712 transmits its data with the deterministic speed and precision characteristic of EtherCAT, ensuring accurate synchronisation with other I/O modules and controllers. This makes it particularly useful in real-time applications where pressure data needs to be processed instantly alongside other sensor inputs.

The compact terminal design (weighing just 95 g) allows for easy installation on DIN rails alongside other EtherCAT I/O modules. Power is supplied directly from the E-bus, with a typical consumption of 70 mA, ensuring energy-efficient operation without additional wiring complexity.

Typical applications for the EM3712 include vacuum and pneumatic systems, cleanroom monitoring, HVAC systems, packaging machinery, and process control, where pressure monitoring plays a vital role in system safety, quality, and efficiency. The dual-channel design allows engineers to monitor two independent pressure points simultaneously, reducing hardware requirements and simplifying installation.

In summary, the Beckhoff EM3712 EtherCAT Terminal provides a powerful solution for relative pressure measurement with two channels, ±1000 hPa range, 1 hPa resolution, and 4 ms sampling speed. With robust overload protection, EtherCAT integration, and compact modular design, it is an ideal choice for engineers looking to incorporate accurate and responsive pressure monitoring into modern automation environments