Product Description:

The CX1020-0023 embedded PC from Beckhoff belongs to the CX Embedded PC Systems series. Provided as a DIN-rail-mountable control unit, it combines PLC logic and Windows-based processing in one compact module for machine-level automation. By hosting real-time task scheduling and decentralized I/O communication, it acts as the central controller in conveyor lines, packaging cells, or process skids.

The computing platform is driven by an Intel Celeron M ULV, 1 GHz CPU with a single processing core, so deterministic control loops can be executed without additional co-processors. Its 256 MB DDR RAM is sufficient for logic execution, HMI services, and data buffering while keeping the footprint minimal. Field connectivity is handled by 2 × RJ45 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet ports that support separate automation and plant networks. Because the device relies on passive cooling, there are no fans, which helps limit dust intake in cabinets. In continuous operation, the controller draws at most 11 W, and the internal E-bus/K-bus backplane receives a dedicated 10 W supply at 5 V DC to power modular I/O terminals. A 16-bit ISA PC/104 system bus ties the CPU board to expansion cards without adding latency.

Physical integration is helped by the 96 × 112 × 99 mm housing, allowing the PC to fit beside standard terminal blocks inside shallow enclosures. The front panel carries status lights, including one for power, two for LAN activity, a TwinCAT indicator, and a flash monitor, so the controller state can be checked at a glance. An IP20 rating limits the unit to clean electrical cabinets, and the lack of a DVI or USB interface keeps the profile slim. Application code executes under TwinCAT 2 NC I Runtime, and program as well as recipe files can be stored on the 1 × CompactFlash Type I+II slot that is accessible behind a service cover.