What this module does in a safety CPU rack
The 6ES7326-2BF40-0AB0 is a failsafe digital output module — 8 channels, each rated 2 A at 24 V DC, with SIL 3 and PL e. It sits in the safety segment of the backplane, separated from standard I/O, and the 40-pin front connector carries both load and signal wiring. The 2 A per channel holds up to 60 °C ambient — horizontal installation, no derating needed. Vertical mounting drops the limit to 1 A.
Lifecycle status — EOL phase, sourcing reality
No official successor order code from Siemens exists for this exact EOL variant. For a BOM freeze or long-term support plan, confirm the replacement path with the safety CPU compatibility list.
Cable length and diagnostic reach
Unshielded cable runs up to 50 m; shielded runs up to 30 m. The module reports diagnostic alarms (parameterizable) and a group-error SF LED — useful for fault isolation on a long run to a remote valve island. Short-circuit protection is built in per channel, with inductive shutdown clamped to L+ (-33 V). No reverse-polarity protection on the load supply — wire 2L+ and 3L+ correctly.