EI Series: Flexible EtherCAT I/O Expansion with a Blade-Coupled Architecture
The EI series combines an EtherCAT coupler with internal-bus expansion modules to cover digital and analog signals in a compact blade-style structure.
SCATECH Editorial Team
Main coupler plus E-bus expansion for flexible I/O combinations
Coupler and Internal-Bus Expansion
The EI series uses a plug-in blade-coupled architecture. The EI0808DN EtherCAT main module provides 8 digital inputs and 8 NPN outputs and works with I-series internal-bus expansion modules.
Published specifications include 24VDC power, a 250μs communication cycle, -20°C to +60°C operation, IP20 protection, and spring terminals.
- EtherCAT main module with internal E-bus expansion.
- Plug-in structure for modular point combinations.
- Digital and 16-bit analog modules are available.
Five Models Across the Signal Chain
The current lineup covers EtherCAT coupling, digital input and output, and analog input and output.
- EI0808DN: EtherCAT coupler with 8 digital inputs and 8 NPN outputs.
- I1600DN: 16-channel NPN digital input module.
- I0016DN: 16-channel NPN digital output module.
- I0800A2: 8-channel voltage input, -10V to 10V, 16-bit resolution.
- I0008A2: 8-channel voltage output, -10V to 10V, 16-bit resolution.
Applications Requiring Space and I/O Flexibility
EI fits modular machines, compact cabinets, production-line cells, and equipment variants that require changing I/O counts. The main module handles EtherCAT access while expansion modules follow sensor, actuator, and analog-loop requirements.
Selection should confirm total points, module order, power, signal types, and cabinet space, then use the published ESI/XML file and series manual for configuration.