CX1020-0011 by Beckhoff

The CX1020-0011 is a DIN-rail-mountable embedded PC produced by Beckhoff within the CX Embedded PC Systems series. Designed to merge compact control hardware with an open PC architecture, the unit serves as the central processor in small to midrange PLC, motion, or HMI applications. By combining industrial-temperature components with modular I/O options, the device allows machine builders to run TwinCAT or other automation software directly at the field level.

For computational tasks, the controller uses an AMD Geode LX800 processor operating at 500 MHz. This low-power x86 core provides deterministic cycle times while generating minimal heat, so cabinet cooling demands remain modest. The housing measures 84 × 100 × 91 mm, allowing installation next to standard terminal blocks without exceeding typical enclosure depths. Two onboard Ethernet ports use RJ45 interfaces at 10/100 Mbit/s to support EtherCAT, Modbus TCP, or general TCP/IP networking. These separate channels accommodate real-time fieldbus traffic and higher-level network communication. The four front-facing USB 2.0 receptacles accept mass-storage devices, programming dongles, and low-speed human-interface devices without requiring additional expansion cards.

Video and diagnostic signals are routed through a DVI-I connector, so a single cable can carry either digital or analog video to a control-station display. The electronics are housed in an IP20 enclosure, which protects against finger contact and solid objects larger than 12.5 mm when the unit is installed in a closed panel. Nonvolatile process data is preserved by the integrated 128 kB NOVRAM, which retains its contents across power cycles without a battery. The controller operates from a 24 V DC control supply, while status LEDs provide a visible indication of supply conditions. Its DIN-rail format supports installation beside compatible I/O terminals and other modular control components within the cabinet.