The EK1101 has two RJ45 sockets and three hexadecimal ID switches. The upper Ethernet

interface is used to connect the coupler to the network; the lower socket serves for the

optional connection of further EtherCAT devices in the same segment. A group of EtherCAT

components can be assigned a unique ID via the hexadecimal ID switches. This group can

then be located at any position within the EtherCAT network. Variable topologies are

therefore easily implementable. In addition, an EtherCAT junction or an EtherCAT extension

can be used for the extension or for setting up a line or star topology.

The system and field supply, each 24 V DC, is provided directly at the coupler. The attached

EtherCAT Terminals are supplied with the current required for communication from the supplied

system voltage. The coupler can supply a maximum of 5 V and 2 A. If higher current is required,

power feed terminals such as the EL9410 have to be integrated. The field supply is forwarded

to the individual I/O components via the power contacts with up to 10 A.