Product Overview

The Beckhoff EL3051 is a 1-channel analog input EtherCAT terminal. This terminal accepts 4-20 mA current signals from field transducers. It supplies power to measuring transducers via the power contacts. The input electronics are independent from the power contact supply. Signal state indication uses light emitting diodes (LEDs). Error LEDs show overload and broken wire conditions. Electrical isolation protects the E-bus from field signals.

Part Number Breakdown (Tree Structure)

• EL → Product Series
  • EtherCAT Terminal
  • Beckhoff automation system
• 3051 → Specific Model
  • 1-channel analog input
  • 4-20 mA current signal
  • 12-bit resolution
  • Single-ended input type

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Beckhoff
• Part Number: Beckhoff EL3051
• Number of Inputs: 1 channel (single-ended)
• Signal Type: Single-ended
• Signal Current: 4 to 20 mA
• Resolution: 12 bits (16-bit presentation including sign)
• Internal Resistance: 85 Ω typical
• Input Filter Limit Frequency: 1 kHz
• Conversion Time: 0.625 ms default (configurable, multiplex)
• Measurement Error: ±0.3% (relative to full scale value)
• Dielectric Strength: 30 V maximum
• Electrical Isolation: 500 V (E-bus to signal voltage)

Power Supply Details

• Power Supply: Via the E-bus
• Current Consumption (E-bus): 130 mA typical
• Current Consumption (Power Contacts): 0 A
• Current Load Power Contacts (max): 10 A
• Power contacts supply field transducer voltage.
• Optional isolated supply via EL9xxx terminal.

Process Image and Features

• Bit Width in Process Image: 4 bytes (inputs)
• Special Features: Standard and compact process image
• Activatable FIR (Finite Impulse Response) filters
• Activatable IIR (Infinite Impulse Response) filters
• Limit value monitoring function
• Distributed Clocks: Not available on this model

LED Indicators

• Signal state LED shows input status.
• Error LED indicates overload condition.
• Error LED indicates broken wire detection.
• Power LED shows E-bus supply status.

Environmental Specifications

• Operating Temperature: -25°C to +60°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
• Relative Humidity: 95% maximum (non-condensing)
• Vibration Resistance: Conforms to EN 60068-2-6
• Shock Resistance: Conforms to EN 60068-2-27
• EMC Immunity: Conforms to EN 61000-6-2
• EMC Emission: Conforms to EN 61000-6-4
• Protection Rating: IP20
• Installation Position: Variable

Ex Approvals and Markings

ATEX Approval:

• II 3 G Ex nA IIC T4 Gc

IECEx Approval:

• Ex ec IIC T4 Gc

Other Approvals:

• CE
• UL

Housing and Physical Data

• Design Form: Compact terminal housing with signal LEDs
• Material: Polycarbonate
• Width: 12 mm
• Height: 100 mm
• Depth: 68 mm
• Weight: Approx. 60 g (0.06 kg)

Mounting and Installation

• Mount on 35 mm DIN rail (EN 60715 standard).
• Locking mechanism secures terminal to rail.
• Side by side mounting via double slot and key connection.
• Marking using BZxxx series labeling system.
• Pluggable wiring for all ESxxxx terminals.

Wiring Specifications

Conductor Types and Cross-Sections:

• Solid wire (s): 0.08 to 2.5 mm²
• Stranded wire (st): 0.08 to 2.5 mm²
• With ferrule (f): 0.14 to 1.5 mm²

AWG Cross-Sections:

• Solid wire (s): AWG 28 to 14
• Stranded wire (st): AWG 28 to 14
• With ferrule (f): AWG 26 to 16

Termination Details:

• Stripping length: 8 to 9 mm
• Spring actuation using screwdriver

Installation Guide

• Turn off all power before installation.
• Mount the DIN rail securely in your control cabinet.
• Clip the Beckhoff EL3051 onto the DIN rail.
• Push the terminal to the right until it locks.
• Connect the E-bus coupler or previous terminal on the left.
• Wire the 4-20 mA current signal to input pins.
• Connect the power contacts for field transducer supply.
• Insert wires into spring terminals using a screwdriver.
• Stripping length is 8-9 mm for proper connection.
• Apply E-bus power and check LED indicators.

Wiring Notes

• • Reference potential for inputs is 0V power contact.

Do not exceed 30 V dielectric strength on input.

• Use twisted pair shielded cable for long runs.
• Connect cable shield to ground at one end only.

Maintenance Tips

• Check LED status during normal operation.
• Inspect terminal connections for tightness annually.
• Keep terminal free from dust and moisture.
• Ensure ambient temperature stays below 60°C.
• Verify input current does not exceed 20 mA range.
• Replace terminal if measurement error exceeds ±0.3%.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If error LED lights, check for overload or broken wire.
• Verify input current is between 4-20 mA range.
• Check power contact voltage for transducer supply.
• Measure internal resistance (should be 85 Ω typical).
• Use TwinCAT software to view raw input values.
• Check filter settings if response seems too slow.

Typical Applications

• Pressure transmitter monitoring in process control
• Temperature transmitter input for HVAC systems
• Flow meter signal acquisition
• Level transmitter monitoring in tanks
• 4-20 mA loop-powered device interface
• Industrial automation with EtherCAT network
• Hazardous area installations (ATEX/IECEx Zone 2)

Package Contents

• One Beckhoff EL3051 EtherCAT analog input terminal
• One product label
• Wiring accessories not included

Warranty and Shipping

• 12 months factory warranty from shipment date.
• Warranty covers manufacturing defects only.
• Overvoltage or wrong wiring voids the warranty.
• Shipping options: FedEx, UPS, DHL.
• Tracking number provided after shipment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How many analog inputs does the EL3051 have?

The Beckhoff EL3051 has 1 analog input channel. It accepts 4-20 mA current signals. The input is single-ended with 12-bit resolution.

Q2: What is the conversion time of this terminal?

Default conversion time is 0.625 milliseconds. This setting is configurable via software. The terminal uses multiplex conversion method.

Q3: Does the EL3051 support distributed clocks?

No, distributed clocks are not available on this model. This terminal uses standard timing without distributed clock synchronization. For time-critical applications, consider other Beckhoff terminals.

Q4: What approvals does the EL3051 have?

This terminal has CE, UL, ATEX, and IECEx approvals. The Ex marking is II 3 G Ex nA IIC T4 Gc (ATEX) and Ex ec IIC T4 Gc (IECEx). Suitable for Zone 2 hazardous areas.

Q5: What filter options are available on the EL3051?

The terminal supports FIR (Finite Impulse Response) filters. It also supports IIR (Infinite Impulse Response) filters. Both filters are activatable via software configuration. Limit value monitoring is also available.

Buying Guide

When you buy a Beckhoff EL3051 analog input terminal, follow these tips. First, count your analog input channels. This terminal gives 1 channel per module. Second, verify your signal type is 4-20 mA current. Third, check your resolution requirement. This terminal provides 12-bit resolution. Fourth, consider conversion speed. Default is 0.625 ms. Fifth, review filter needs. FIR and IIR filters are available. Sixth, check your Ex zone requirement. This terminal is Zone 2 approved. Seventh, verify your temperature range. Operating range is -25°C to +60°C. Eighth, calculate your E-bus power budget. Each terminal draws 130 mA typical. Ninth, review warranty terms. We offer 12 months coverage. Tenth, choose your shipping method. We use FedEx, UPS, and DHL. Finally, test the terminal with a signal simulator before connecting to field transmitters.