Product Description: ECE161-0 (E161) Digital Input Module
May 13, 2026

Product Description: ECE161-0 (E161) Digital Input Module

General Description The ECE161-0 (E161) is a compact, 16-channel digital input module designed for B&R's legacy MULTI and MIDI modular automation platforms. It serves as a critical interface for acquiring binary ON/OFF signals from a wide range of industrial field devices, such as sensors, switches, and pushbuttons. This module supports both 24 VDC and 24 VAC input signals, offering exceptional flexibility for system integration in diverse manufacturing environments. Its robust, opto-isolated design ensures reliable signal detection and superior noise immunity in electrically demanding industrial settings.

Description

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Product Description: ECE161-0 (E161) Digital Input Module

Manufacturer: B&R Industrial Automation
Part Number: ECE161-0
Alternative Designation: E161
Product Type: Digital Input Module
Series: MULTI / MIDI Control System

1. General Description

The ECE161-0 (E161) is a compact, 16-channel digital input module designed for B&R's legacy MULTI and MIDI modular automation platforms. It serves as a critical interface for acquiring binary ON/OFF signals from a wide range of industrial field devices, such as sensors, switches, and pushbuttons. This module supports both 24 VDC and 24 VAC input signals, offering exceptional flexibility for system integration in diverse manufacturing environments. Its robust, opto-isolated design ensures reliable signal detection and superior noise immunity in electrically demanding industrial settings.

2. Key Features

  • 16 Universal Digital Input Channels: Sixteen individually configurable input channels compatible with 24 VDC or 24 VAC signals.

  • Flexible Sink/Source Wiring: Supports both NPN (sink) and PNP (source) input wiring configurations.

  • Optoelectronic Galvanic Isolation: Full isolation between input channels and the backplane for enhanced system safety and noise immunity.

  • Precise Input Filtering: Defined input switching thresholds and response times for stable signal detection.

  • Wide AC Frequency Range: Accepts AC voltages with frequencies from 47 Hz to 63 Hz.

  • LED Status Indicators: Individual front-panel LEDs for each channel to display real-time input ON/OFF status.

  • Compact Rack-Mount Design: Single-slot module for standard MULTI/MIDI racks, optimizing cabinet space.

  • Industrial Durability: Designed for continuous operation in harsh conditions with a wide temperature tolerance.

  • Easy Diagnostics: Immediate visual feedback via channel LEDs simplifies troubleshooting and maintenance.

  • Certifications: CE certified for compliance with European EMC and safety standards.

3. Technical Specifications

Input & Performance Data

  • Number of Inputs: 16 channels

  • Input Type: Universal, sinking/sourcing (NPN/PNP)

  • Input Voltage: 24 VDC / 24 VAC (nominal)

  • AC Input Frequency: 47 – 63 Hz

  • Input Current (24 VDC): Approx. 12 mA per channel

  • Input Current (24 VAC): Approx. 10 mA per channel

  • Input Resistance: Approx. 2.2 kΩ

  • Switching Threshold (0 → 1): Min. 14 VDC / 16 VAC (ON state)

  • Switching Threshold (1 → 0): Max. 9 VDC / VAC (OFF state)

  • Switching Delay (0 → 1): Approx. 10 ms

  • Switching Delay (1 → 0): Approx. 20 ms

  • Isolation Voltage: 500 VDC (input to backplane)

  • Isolation Type: Optocoupler

Electrical Data

  • Power Supply: From system backplane (+8 VDC)

  • Power Consumption: Approx. 0.2 W

  • Overvoltage Protection: Integrated transient suppression

Mechanical Data

  • Form Factor: Single slot for MULTI/MIDI rack

  • Dimensions (W x H x D): Approx. 35 mm x 100 mm x 229 mm

  • Weight: Approx. 0.2 kg

  • Mounting: Direct insertion into B&R MULTI/MIDI backplane

  • Connection: Screw terminal block (0.5 – 1.5 mm²)

  • Protection Rating: IP20 (front)

Environmental Data

  • Operating Temperature: -25°C to +70°C

  • Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C

  • Relative Humidity: 5 – 95% RH, non-condensing

  • Vibration Resistance: IEC 60068-2-6

  • Shock Resistance: IEC 60068-2-27

  • Pollution Degree: 2

Safety & Certifications

  • EMC Compliance: EN 61000-6-2, EN 61000-6-4

  • Safety Standards: EN 61131-2

  • Certifications: CE

4. Typical Applications

The ECE161-0 module is widely used for signal acquisition in legacy B&R automation systems:
  • Factory Automation: Limit switches, proximity sensors, photoelectric sensors, pushbuttons, and selector switches.

  • Material Handling: Conveyor line position detection, palletizing sensors.

  • Packaging Machinery: Film presence, end-of-travel, and count sensors.

  • Specialty Machinery: Printing, textile, and semiconductor processing equipment.

  • Process Control: Monitoring of valve positions, level switches, and alarm contacts.

  • Legacy System Maintenance: Direct replacement for existing E161 modules in older installations.

  • Industrial Retrofits: Updating sensor input systems in mature production lines.

5. Configuration & Integration

  • System Compatibility: Fully compatible with all B&R MULTI and MIDI series CPU and backplane modules.

  • Status Indicators:

    • Channel LEDs (Green): Illuminates when the corresponding input channel is in the ON (active) state.

  • Wiring: Field devices are connected via the front-mounted screw terminal block.

  • Hot-Swap Capability: Supports safe replacement in compatible, live systems (consult system documentation).

  • Software Integration: Recognized automatically by B&R system configuration tools; no additional software required.

6. Ordering Information

  • Base Part Number: ECE161-0

  • Alternative Part Number: E161

  • Standard Package: 1 x ECE161-0 Digital Input Module

  • Warranty: Standard 1-year manufacturer warranty


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