NU-EC1 Keyence EtherCAT Communication Unit N-bus RJ-45

NU-EC1 Keyence Network Communication Unit for EtherCAT Networks

Core Technical Specifications

• Model: NU-EC1; Brand: Keyence; Series: NU
• Ethernet: IEEE802.3u (100BASE-TX), 100 Mbps, Cat 5e STP cable
• Ports: RJ-45 x2 for EtherCAT inline connection
• Node distance: 100 m between nodes
• Protocol support: EtherCAT process data cyclic traffic plus mailbox CoE
• Sensor connection: N-bus compatible amplifiers, up to 16 units
• Passing current: 1,200 mA or less total
• Power supply: 24 VDC +/-10% with ripple of 10% or less
• Power consumption: 1,700 mW or less (70 mA at 24 V, excluding sensor current)
• Operating temperature: -20 to +55 °C (no freezing)
• Humidity range: 35 to 85% RH (no condensation)
• Weight: Approx. 0.08 kg including connectors

Network and Sensor Integration

• The two RJ-45 ports support EtherCAT process data and mailbox CoE in one compact module.
• Cyclic process data carries sensor states, while CoE mailbox access handles parameters and diagnostics.
• The N-bus wiring-saving connector links up to 16 amplifiers with 1,200 mA total passing current.
• Cat 5e STP cabling and 100 m node distance keep signal quality stable across long machine lines.
• This layout suits assembly cells, inspection stations and packaging machines with dense sensor counts.

Installation Guide

• Mount the NU-EC1 on a DIN rail or panel inside the control cabinet, clear of heat sources.
• Connect N-bus amplifiers with the wiring-saving connector and confirm total current stays below 1,200 mA.
• Use shielded Cat 5e cable for both RJ-45 ports and keep each node distance under 100 m.
• Apply 24 VDC +/-10% with ripple of 10% or less to the power connector.
• Set the EtherCAT station address and map process data in the master configuration tool.
• Check cyclic data and CoE mailbox access, then secure connectors and route cables away from drives.

Environmental Durability and Interference Resistance

• The -20 to +55 °C range covers cold rooms and warm enclosures without extra climate control.
• 35 to 85% RH operation without condensation fits most factory floors and wash-down adjacent areas.
• Shielded twisted-pair cable and 100 Mbps signaling reduce noise pickup on busy EtherCAT lines.
• Inline RJ-45 ports keep the bus chain short, which lowers reflection and keeps cycle times stable.

Package Contents

• 1 x Keyence NU-EC1 network communication unit
• 1 x wiring-saving connector for N-bus amplifiers
• 1 x power connector
• 1 x quick reference sheet

Shipping and Support

• We keep this item in stock as brand new original stock.
• We ship within 5 days through FedEx, UPS or DHL.
• We accept returns within 30 days of delivery.

FAQ

• Q: How many sensor amplifiers can the NU-EC1 connect? A: The N-bus link accepts up to 16 compatible amplifiers with 1,200 mA total passing current.
• Q: Which Ethernet speed and cable does the unit need? A: It runs at 100 Mbps over IEEE802.3u 100BASE-TX and works best with shielded Cat 5e cable.
• Q: What is the maximum distance between nodes? A: Each EtherCAT node distance can reach 100 m with suitable Cat 5e STP cable.
• Q: Does the unit support mailbox communication? A: Yes, it handles EtherCAT mailbox CoE alongside cyclic process data.
• Q: What power supply does the NU-EC1 require? A: It needs 24 VDC +/-10% with ripple of 10% or less and draws 70 mA at 24 V excluding sensor current.
• Q: Is the unit in stock and how fast do you ship? A: We hold brand new original stock and dispatch within 5 days by FedEx, UPS or DHL.