What Is SCADA? Supervisory Control Without Replacing the PLC
SCADA sits above PLCs and RTUs: it acquires field data, alarms operators, and issues supervisory commands across plants and remote assets—without replacing local deterministic control.

Direct field deployment of analog control signals is achieved through the Beckhoff ER4174-0002 EtherCAT Box, which provides processing of highly precise output signals without requiring an electrical cabinet. This IP67-rated module features 4 analog outputs that are individually parameterizable, allowing each channel to be configured to output either -10 to +10 V voltage signals or 0/4 to 20 mA current loops. Operating with 16-bit resolution, the device provides rapid and low-noise conversion directly at the machine, feeding actuators with clean signals over field-level M12 interfaces.
| Manufacturer | Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG |
| Model | ER4174-0002 |
| Protocol | EtherCAT |
| Bus Interface | 2 x M8 socket, shielded, screw-type connection |
| Number of Channels | 4 analog outputs |
| Signal Type | -10/0 to +10 V | 0/4 to 20 mA (parameterizable per channel) |
| Resolution | 16-bit |
| Conversion Time | approx. 40 us |
| Measurement Error | < 0.1% (relative to full scale value) |
| Load Impedance (Voltage) | > 5 kOhm |
| Load Impedance (Current) | < 500 Ohm |
| Nominal Power Supply | 24 V DC (-15% / +20%) |
| Current Consumption (from US) | 120 mA |
| Power Feed / Connection | Feed: 1 x M8 male (4-pin); Downstream: 1 x M8 female (4-pin) |
| Electrical Isolation | 500 V |
| Protection Rating | IP65/IP66/IP67 (conforms to EN 60529) |
| Operating Temperature | -25 to +60 degC |
| Storage Temperature | -40 to +85 degC |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Shipping Weight (Calculated) | 0.65 kg (Net module weight: 265 g) |
| Package Dimensions (Calculated) | 180 mm x 50 mm x 45 mm |
| Connector / Pin | Signal Assignment | Function Description |
|---|---|---|
| M12 Output - Pin 1 | +24 V DC (UP) | Actuator power supply (auxiliary voltage) |
| M12 Output - Pin 2 | Analog Out + | Voltage/Current signal positive path |
| M12 Output - Pin 3 | GND (UP) | Ground potential for actuator supply |
| M12 Output - Pin 4 | Analog Out - | Voltage/Current signal reference path |
| M12 Output - Pin 5 | Shield | Functional earth / cable shield connection |
The ER4174-0002 utilizes an ultra-durable zinc die-cast housing designed for high-impact physical environments. For applications with identical electrical properties but lighter weight requirements, the plastic-housed EP4174-0002 serves as a direct drop-in network alternative. Both modules feature identical EtherCAT XML device description (ESI) profiles and are fully interchangeable inside the TwinCAT system manager config without reprogramming.
When cascading auxiliary voltage (UP) and system voltage (US) downstream to adjacent EtherCAT boxes, engineers must monitor total cumulative current. The M8 power connectors are strictly limited to a maximum continuous current of 4 A. Exceeding this limit will cause internal thermal stress and contact oxidation. If high-draw actuators (such as proportional solenoid valves) are connected, auxiliary power (UP) should be externalized or isolated using specialized power feed modules.
To guarantee the high precision offered by the 16-bit DAC, users must use fully shielded, twisted-pair cabling for the M12 analog connections. Grounding the zinc die-cast housing via the integrated mounting tabs directly to a low-impedance machine frame is critical for draining high-frequency industrial noise. If high common-mode voltage is expected between field actuators and the controller, the 500 V electrical isolation boundary provides safety, but shielding is required to suppress analog signal ripple.
CRITICAL WARNING:
De-energize all system power (US and UP) before physical installation, mounting, or cable connection. Connecting hot-swappable cables to ungrounded field boxes can cause permanent damage to sensitive internal digital-to-analog converter chips.
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| Country of origin |
Germany
|