Product Description:

The CX8051-1000 is a compact embedded PC manufactured by Beckhoff as part of the CX Embedded PC Systems series. Designed as a DIN-rail-mounted automation node, it carries out PLC logic, HMI serving, and networking functions required for decentralized machine cells in industrial plants. The device links directly to Beckhoff’s modular terminal system, enabling real-time control of sensors and actuators without the need for an external computer.

At its core, an ARM9 processor running at 400 MHz executes deterministic control cycles while the integrated 64 MB RAM holds task variables and buffered data streams. Program and boot files reside on a removable 512 MB microSD card, allowing field replacement without a programming terminal. Electrical demand is low; maximum consumption is only 3 W from the regulated 24 VDC (-15%/+20%) supply, and up to 2 A can be passed through to the attached terminal bus to energize distributed sensors. Either K-bus or E-bus backplanes can be selected at wiring time, giving flexibility when mixing digital, analog, and motion slices. A single USB device port supports service imaging, and the electronics remain functional from 0 °C to +55 °C during operation or -25 °C to +85 °C in storage.

The housing measures just 64 × 100 × 73 mm, so the controller fits behind shallow cabinet doors while still providing front access to connectors. Despite the small size, it weighs only 180 g and carries an IP20 protection rating suited for installation inside a sealed enclosure. Network integration is handled through a single RJ45, 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet port for programming or SCADA links. Real-time machine data exchange with higher-level motion or safety controllers uses the dedicated CANopen Slave interface. The configurable I/O backbone also supports use in conveyor lines, packaging machines, and process skids where space and power are limited.