Beckhoff Automation Announces Power over EtherCAT® Junction

MINNEAPOLIS, January 22, 2009 – In order to easily provide power to EtherCAT® sensors over a standard Cat 5 cable, Beckhoff Automation has released the EK1132 Power over EtherCAT junction terminal. Ultra high speed EtherCAT sensors that deliver low microsecond (µs) level communication can now be more easily installed in high performance industrial applications. Based on the IEEE standard 802.3af, the EK1132 requires only a standard EtherCAT/Ethernet cable for the fieldbus signal and the power supply.

The EK1132 EtherCAT junction is particularly suitable for sensors such as shaft encoders or length measuring devices that can now be connected via a single cable for reduced wiring efforts. The sensor supply voltage of 48 V is generated in the EK1132 junction from the 24 V voltage used as the industry standard. The maximum current input of the terminal devices is 350 mA. The signal and energy transfer takes places on the same wire so four-wire cables can be used. The sensors are connected to Power over EtherCAT via a 4-pin connector such as M12. The maximum possible Ethernet cable length is 100 m.

An intelligent power distribution system detects which power consumer belongs to which performance class and distributes the total available power (15.4 W) to the connected devices accordingly. Like the 2-port EK1122 EtherCAT junction from Beckhoff, the new EK1132 also enables configuration of EtherCAT star topologies. Through Beckhoff’s TwinCAT® automation software suite and other suitable EtherCAT masters, the EK1132 also supports coupling and uncoupling of EtherCAT devices during operation (Hot Connect).

“The new EK1132 junction for Power over EtherCAT represents Beckhoff Automation’s latest in a series of projects to enhance technologies from the Ethernet and PC world for industrial use,” Graham Harris, President, Beckhoff Automation said. “Using the dynamic Power over EtherCAT functionality, users of Beckhoff’s next generation Industrial Ethernet system will be able to further reduce wiring and installation costs. High performance EtherCAT sensors from a variety of vendors are available now. When paired with the EK1132 junction from Beckhoff, this combination will make an immediate impact for companies seeking to create more robust and globally competitive industrial networks and automation systems.”

Beckhoff Automation® provides advanced, open automation products based upon proven technologies so that customers can implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC based control, industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interface, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 60 countries, Beckhoff is well positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved to provide faster response and improved communications. For more information visit www.beckhoffautomation.com

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