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Information for specialists, disclaimer, trademarks, patent and copyright details.
General safety regulations, liability exclusion, personnel qualification and safety symbols.
Details on version changes and updates to the manual.
Describes the device's purpose, installation, and essential operating precautions.
Details the CX9020 system, its architecture, and functionalities like EtherCAT and PLC.
Comprehensive technical data including processor, memory, interfaces, power, and environmental specs.
Lists available CX9020 module variants and their associated software configurations.
Explains the internal architecture, CPU, memory, and interface connections of the CX9020.
Instructions for accessing, replacing, and maintaining the internal battery, including safety notes.
Details the function and handling of the Micro-SD card slots for storage and system expansion.
Explains the role of the µSD card for data retention and recommends Beckhoff industrial cards.
Describes the built-in one-second UPS for data safety and its integration into PLC programs.
Steps for unpacking, handling, and transporting the device, including safety precautions.
Provides detailed dimensional drawings and measurements of the CX9020 devices.
Guide to snapping the module onto a mounting rail and correct installation orientation for ventilation.
The Beckhoff CX9020 is a compact, DIN rail-mountable Embedded PC designed for control system applications. It functions as a powerful PLC and Motion Control system, capable of operating with or without visualization, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial automation tasks. The system is built around a 1 GHz ARM Cortex™ A8 CPU and integrates directly with Beckhoff I/O systems, automatically identifying and switching between K-bus and E-bus modes.
The core function of the CX9020 is to serve as a versatile control system. It leverages the TwinCAT automation software to transform into an IEC 61131-3 PLC, supporting up to four user tasks and Motion Control tasks. This allows for complex automation scenarios, from simple point-to-point movements to multi-axis functions like "electronic gearbox," "cam plates," and "flying saw." The TwinCAT real-time kernel ensures that control tasks are executed in real-time, while still leaving time for user interface (HMI) communication via software interfaces such as ADS or OPC.
The CX9020 offers various connectivity options. Its basic configuration includes two switched Ethernet RJ45 interfaces, which are connected to an internal switch, simplifying the creation of line topologies without the need for additional Ethernet switches. It also features four USB 2.0 interfaces and a DVI-D interface for connecting operating devices. Optionally, the unit can be ordered with a fieldbus, serial, or audio interface, expanding its adaptability to different industrial environments.
One of the key features is its optimal interaction with EtherCAT, a fast I/O system. The CX9020 can integrate conventional fieldbus systems as EtherCAT devices in terminal form, allowing for flexible positioning of masters like PROFIBUS within a machine. This eliminates the need for plug-in cards in an IPC or a master controller in the control cabinet.
The CX9020_U900 family includes a built-in capacitive one-second UPS (S-UPS). This feature is crucial for data integrity, ensuring the safe storage of up to 1 MB of persistent application data on the Compact Flash card in the event of a power failure. TwinCAT provides special function blocks for integrating this S-UPS into a PLC program, simplifying its use in automation applications.
The CX9020 is designed for DIN rail installation, making it easy to integrate into control cabinets or terminal boxes. Its compact dimensions and robust design, coupled with an extended operating temperature range of -25 to +60 °C, allow for application in climatically demanding situations.
For programming, the CX9020, especially when equipped with "Windows Embedded Compact 7," can be remotely programmed via Ethernet. This involves developing programs on a laptop or desktop PC with a standard TwinCAT software license and then loading them into the target device. This remote capability enhances flexibility and convenience during development and deployment.
The system's modularity is further enhanced by its optional interfaces. Users can select from various single-channel fieldbus interfaces such as Audio, RS232, RS422/RS485, EtherCAT slave, PROFIBUS master/slave, CANopen master/slave, PROFINET RT controller/device, and EtherNet/IP slave. It's important to note that operation is limited to one optional interface at a time, though additional fieldbus interfaces can be added as E-bus terminals (EL67xx).
The CX9020 is equipped with two microSD card slots. The upper slot (Slot 1) is typically used for the operating system, while the lower slot (Slot 2) can be used for an additional µSD card to archive data or store further programs. This allows for system expansion, particularly for operating system and program memory.
Maintenance of the CX9020 is designed to be straightforward. The µSD Flash cards, which serve as the storage medium, are replaceable and can be removed from the module for maintenance. This should only be done when the device is switched off to prevent system crashes. The eject mechanism for the µSD cards is a push-push principle, allowing for easy removal with a soft click using a screwdriver.
The device includes an internal clock with battery backup for time and date. The battery, a CR2032 type, is replaceable. The battery compartment is located under the front cover, and replacement involves carefully pulling out the old battery with an ejection tab and inserting a new one with correct polarity. It is crucial to use only CR2032 batteries from specified manufacturers (Sanyo or Panasonic) and ensure correct polarity to prevent explosion. The battery should be replaced every 5 years.
For diagnostic purposes, the CX9020 features several LEDs on the basic CPU module, indicating power, TC status, bus status, and flash access. These LEDs provide quick visual feedback on the system's operational status and can aid in troubleshooting.
Proper installation is key to the device's longevity and performance. The CX9020 dissipates heat via a passive ventilation system, requiring horizontal mounting to ensure optimum air flow through its top and bottom ventilation openings. A minimum clearance of 30 mm above and below the device combination is necessary for adequate ventilation.
When handling the device, especially during unpacking, installation, and transport, it is important to follow safety instructions. The device should be protected from strong vibrations and impacts, ideally using the original packaging for transport. If the device has been subjected to cold conditions or extreme temperature differences, condensation must be avoided by allowing it to slowly adjust to room temperature for approximately 12 hours before switching it on.
Before switching off the Embedded PC, it is essential to properly stop any running software to prevent data loss. When fitting or removing components, the supply voltage must be switched off to avoid damage from short-circuits or overvoltages. Only trained specialists familiar with national standards should perform installation and commissioning tasks.
General| CPU | ARM Cortex-A8, 1 GHz |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 24 V DC (-15 %/+20 %) |
| Protection Class | IP 20 |
| Operating System | Windows Embedded Compact 7 |
| Operating Temperature | -25 °C to +60 °C |
| Flash Memory | 256 MB |
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