Extension Options; Using Placeholder Modules For Unused Slots - Beckhoff EJ18 Series Manual

Installation of EJ modules
4.6

Extension options

Three options are available for modifications and extensions of the EJ system.
• Replacing the placeholder modules with the function modules provided for the respective slot
• Assigning function modules specified for the respective slots for the reserve slots at the end of the
module string
• Linking with EtherCAT Terminals and EtherCAT Box modules via an Ethernet/EtherCAT connection
4.6.1

Using placeholder modules for unused slots

The EJ9001 placeholder modules are used to close temporary gaps in the module strands (see Fig. A1
below). Gaps in the module strand cause interruption in EtherCAT communication and must be equipped
with placeholder modules.
In contrast to the passive terminals of the EL series, the placeholder modules actively participate in the data
exchange. Several placeholder modules can therefore be connected in series, without impairing the data
exchange.
Unused slots at the end of the module strand can be left as reserve slots (see Fig. B1 below).
The machine complexity is extended (extended version) by allocating unused slots (see Figs. A2 below -
Exchanging placeholder modules and B2 - Assigning reserve slots) according to the specifications for the
signal distribution board.
Fig. 25: Sample: Exchanging placeholder modules and assigning reserve slots
E-bus supply
Exchange the placeholder modules with other modules changes the current input from the E-Bus.
Ensure that adequate power supply is provided.
38 Version: 1.5 EJ18xx