Beckhoff EK1100 EtherCAT Coupler

Product Overview: Beckhoff EK1100 EtherCAT Coupler 

Beckhoff EK1100 is the central interface between the EtherCAT fieldbus level and the EtherCAT Terminals (ELxxxx). Its core function is to convert passing telegrams from 100BASE-TX Ethernet into the E‑bus signal representation required by the terminals. A complete station consists of this coupler, any number of EtherCAT Terminals, and a bus end terminal.

Brand Name: Beckhoff

Model Number: EK1100

Condition: 100% New and Original

Lead Time: 3-5 Days

Warranty: 1 Year

Key Specification

Core Features & Advantages

• Seamless EtherCAT Integration: The module's standout feature is its core function as a protocol translator. It converts 100BASE‑TX Ethernet telegrams to the E‑bus signal with only about 1 µs delay, enabling real-time communication with up to 65,534 terminals in a system . Because it processes only unaddressed MAC Broadcast telegrams, it cannot be used directly on a switch or router; the EK9000 or EK1000 couplers are required for that purpose.

• Flexible Network Topology: With two RJ45 ports (one for the network connection, one for daisy‑chaining), the EK1100 supports line and star topologies. Topologies can be extended using an EtherCAT junction or extension, making it adaptable for both small and large I/O systems.

• Robust Industrial Design: The coupler features a compact 44 mm × 100 mm × 68 mm polycarbonate housing, is rated IP20, and operates over a wide temperature range of ‑25 °C to +60 °C. It complies with EN 61000-6-2/‑6-4 for EMC and EN 60068-2-6/‑2-27 for vibration/shock resistance, making it suitable for harsh factory environments . It is also approved with ATEX, IECEx, and cFMus certifications for hazardous locations.

Typical Applications

The EK1100 is widely used as the foundation for EtherCAT I/O stations in almost any automation application that requires modular and distributed I/O, including:

• Machine Building – connecting sensors and actuators in packaging, textile, or handling machines .

• Process Automation – building I/O stations for temperature, pressure, and flow monitoring in chemical or pharmaceutical plants .

• Factory Automation – integrating conveyor systems, robotics, and quality control equipment into a single EtherCAT network