What Is a Terminal Block Feed Module? Use and Selection Criteria
A terminal block feed module is a passive input terminal fitted at the start of a mini terminal block row, where the thicker supply conductor connects; it is not a power supply.
A terminal block feed module is an input terminal placed at the start of a mini terminal block row, to which the supply conductor feeding the row is connected. In control panels it feeds the common supply line from a single point to a row of mini terminal blocks that distribute the same potential to many outputs. It does not convert voltage; it is not a power supply or a PLC power module, but a passive connection element.
Why use a feed module?
Mini terminal block entries are made for small conductor cross-sections; the Onka mini terminal blocks in the catalog are 2.5 mm². When the line feeding the row is thicker, that conductor does not fit a mini terminal block. According to the catalog data, the feed module accepts a supply conductor up to 6 mm² and feeds the row from the start; the outputs are taken from the 2.5 mm² terminal blocks in the row.
Feed modules in the catalog
| Series | Cross-section | Catalog rating | Colors | Active products |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onka MP front feed module | 6 mm² | 41 A, 750 V | Beige, gray, brown, red, blue, yellow, black, green | 8 |
All eight products are color options of the same module and are sold on quotation.
Selection criteria
- Series compatibility: The module must belong to the same series as the terminal block row it feeds. The catalog's mini spring connection terminal blocks carrying the Onka MP name are 2.5 mm² push-in types; check the Onka datasheet for which terminal blocks and which connecting part the module joins with.
- Supply cross-section: If the supply conductor is larger than 6 mm², this module is not suitable; the row is fed with a standard DIN rail terminal block.
- Total current: The total current drawn from the row must not exceed the module's 41 A rating. Each output terminal is limited by its own rating; for the 2.5 mm² Onka mini terminal blocks in the catalog this is 24 A.
- Color: The housing color is only a marking. A blue housing can mark the neutral line, and different colors can separate different voltage groups. A green or yellow housing is not a protective earth terminal.
Common mistakes
- Taking the feed module for a power supply: The module does not produce 24 V DC or reduce voltage; it only connects the conductor.
- Forcing a thick supply line into a mini terminal block: A large conductor does not seat fully in a 2.5 mm² entry and the connection heats up.
- Using accessories from another series: Housing size and connection slots are series-specific; close the end of the row with a matching mini end stop as well.
- Connecting the protective conductor to a colored module: The protective conductor goes to a yellow-green earth terminal block.
Brands in the catalog
The Feed Modules category has 8 active products, all from the Onka MP series. Jumpers, end stops, separator plates and labels are listed under terminal block accessories and spares.
Frequently asked questions
What does a terminal block feed module do?
It connects the supply conductor coming to a mini terminal block row at a single point and feeds the row from the start. The thicker supply line therefore does not have to be run to each small mini terminal block separately.
Is a feed module a power supply?
No. It does not convert voltage or regulate an output. If a control voltage such as 24 V DC is needed, a separate power supply is used; the feed module connects that supply's line to the row.
Which terminal blocks is the Onka MP feed module used with?
According to the product name, it is for the Onka MP mini series. The catalog has 2.5 mm² push-in mini terminal blocks under the same series name; confirm how they join and which parts fit in the Onka datasheet.
How many amps can pass through a feed module?
The catalog rating of the Onka MP module is 41 A and 750 V. The current through each output terminal is limited by that terminal's own rating.