Product Description:

The CX5020-0111 is an embedded PC manufactured by Beckhoff within the CX Embedded PC Systems series. Intended for cabinet mounting beside EtherCAT or E-Bus terminal blocks, the module acts as a programmable logic controller and soft-HMI platform inside automated machinery. By integrating PC-class computing with hardened 24 V field wiring, it bridges the gap between traditional PLC racks and higher-level plant networks in continuous and batch production lines.

Its computing core is a Intel Atom Z530, 1.6 GHz processor that runs user task cycles deterministically under the TwinCAT scheduler. Program variables and real-time buffers reside in 512 MB RAM, while firmware, boot files, and user projects are retained on a 128 MB Compact Flash card that can be swapped without tools. Two onboard Gigabit controllers expose a 2 × RJ-45 10/100/1000 Mbit/s interface for fieldbus routing or IT-level services, and the control code is executed by the TwinCAT 2 PLC Runtime. Additional peripherals such as keyboards, barcode scanners, or data loggers attach through four USB 2.0 ports, and a DVI-D connector provides single-link video for local diagnostics. An internal E-Bus backplane allows direct coupling of Beckhoff I/O slices without separate communication modules.

Electrical and physical ratings align with compact control cabinets. The unit is supplied from a 24 V DC source and draws up to 2 A for the terminal bus and electronics. Under worst-case loading, the controller dissipates only 12.5 W, simplifying passive heat removal in densely packed enclosures. The housing fits into a 100 × 106 × 92 mm footprint and meets IP 20 ingress protection for clean indoor areas. Operating tasks, drivers, and communication stacks run on Windows Embedded CE 6, supporting deterministic scheduling and quick boot cycles.