Product Description:

The CX2020-0121 embedded PC is produced by Beckhoff within the CX Embedded PC Systems series. Designed as a DIN-rail automation controller, it combines PLC logic, HMI capability, and standard PC interfaces to coordinate drives, fieldbus devices, and supervisory networks on a machine or production cell. In industrial environments, it replaces separate PLC and industrial PC hardware, saving cabinet space while allowing deterministic control through TwinCAT engineering tools. It operates without a fan, which is useful in dusty manufacturing areas that require quiet operation and low maintenance.

At the heart of the unit is an Intel Celeron 827E processor, and its single core runs at 1.4 GHz, providing adequate deterministic performance for mid-sized PLC tasks while minimizing heat. The controller carries 2 GB DDR3-RAM to store real-time variables, code, and visualization data. For plant networking, it offers 2 x RJ45 jacks that negotiate at 10/100/1000 Mbit/s, so the same platform can link to legacy 100 Mbit lines or gigabit backbones. Maximum electrical load stays within 21 W, keeping thermal design straightforward in compact cabinets. TwinCAT 2 PLC Runtime is preinstalled, so PLC tasks can be deployed directly from the control environment.

An aluminum housing measuring 144 × 99 × 91 mm permits direct attachment beside Beckhoff I/O terminals without exceeding standard enclosure depths. The factory image of Windows Embedded Standard 7 P 32-bit supports supervisory applications, while Shader Model 4.1 capability and 128 MB of shared graphics memory are adequate for local visualization panels. Retentive process data reside in 128 kB of NOVRAM, surviving unexpected power cycles. The unit has 4 × USB 2.0 Type A sockets on the front panel, and each one provides 500 mA for handheld scanners or memory sticks, while a 500 V dielectric strength helps the controller tolerate control-cabinet transients.