CX5140-155 by Beckhoff

The CX5140-155 is an embedded PC produced by Beckhoff in the CX Embedded PC Systems series. It mounts on a DIN rail and combines PLC logic, motion control, and HMI functions in one housing. Running TwinCAT 3 Runtime (XAR) control software, the unit executes deterministic automation code that coordinates drives, field I/O, and operator terminals without a separate rack-mounted computer. Its low-power design allows computing resources to be placed beside terminal blocks, shortening wiring paths and simplifying cabinet layouts.

Computing resources are provided by an Intel Atom E3845 processor running at 1.91 GHz. Its four execution threads support logic scanning, HMI rendering, and fieldbus communication. System memory is set at 4 GB of DDR3 RAM, leaving capacity for complex TwinCAT 3 tasks and Windows-based diagnostics. Persistent storage is interchangeable through CFast and MicroSD slots, allowing software updates or production data to be transferred without removing the controller from the panel. External peripherals connect through four USB 2.0 ports, which support keyboards, vision cameras, and removable storage devices. The E-bus/K-bus backplane receives 10 W, while overall power consumption reaches 16 W during processing and 23 W while the integrated UPS is charging. A 1 MB memory buffer preserves the system state during a one-second power interruption. Power contacts on the terminal side can continuously carry 10 A to downstream modules.

The PC has two RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet ports for simultaneous connections to real-time EtherCAT segments and plant networks. Visual output through the DVI-I connector reaches 1920 × 1200 pixels, supporting Full HD and WUXGA operator panels. The housing measures 142 × 100 × 92 mm, mounts on a standard DIN rail, and operates from a 24 V DC supply.