Beckhoff Automation BK2000 Lightbus Coupler BK2000

The BK2000 Lightbus Coupler from Beckhoff is the interface that bridges the Lightbus serial fieldbus to Beckhoff’s modular electronic terminal blocks, and a standard unit consists of one BK2000 bus coupler, up to 64 terminals, and an end terminal with automatic mapping of inputs and outputs into the process image. It supports 512-byte input and 512-byte output per unit, equating to 512 digital I/O signals and 128 analog I/O signals, and it transmits at 2.5 Mbaud over two fiber-optic bus interfaces (Z1000 plastic fiber and Z1010 HCS fiber); Lightbus operates in a ring topology that can accommodate up to 254 stations, enabling targeted data transfers with minimal overhead and a clear separation of inputs and outputs. Configuration is performed via KS2000 or directly by the controlling PLC, and Beckhoff notes that the BK2000 is still in serial production but for new projects recommends the BK2020 as the current alternative; this reflects the BK2000’s status as a legacy yet foundational component of older Lightbus installations.