Description
The Beckhoff CX1020-0000 is a modular, DIN-rail mounted Embedded PC CPU module configured for mid-to-high performance automation tasks. Equipped with a 1 GHz Intel Celeron M ULV processor, this fanless basic CPU operates as the centralized processing hub for the CX1020 automation system. It executes TwinCAT 2 or TwinCAT 3 real-time control logic, coordinates PLC, Motion Control (NC), and HMI applications, and interfaces directly with Beckhoff Bus Terminals (KL series) or EtherCAT Terminals (EL series) through an integrated backplane bus driver.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value / Specification |
| Brand / Manufacturer | Beckhoff Automation |
| Model / Part Number | CX1020-0000 |
| Processor | Intel Celeron M ULV, 1 GHz |
| Flash Memory | Slots for CompactFlash card (Type I/II), capacity variant dependent |
| Internal RAM | 512 MB DDR RAM (factory standard; verify if customized) |
| Operating System Support | Windows Embedded CE 6 or Windows Embedded Standard 2009 |
| Control Software Compatibility | TwinCAT 2 (PLC, NC PTP, NC I) / TwinCAT 3 Runtime |
| Integrated Interfaces | 2 x RJ45 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet ports (internal switch) |
| I/O System Connection | Direct connection to Beckhoff Bus Terminals (KL) or EtherCAT Terminals (EL) |
| Diagnostic Display | 1 x 2-line x 16-character LC display, illuminated |
| Power Supply Requirements | Powered via system connection to a matching CX1100 power supply module |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to +55 °C (+32 to +131 °F) |
| Relative Humidity | 95%, non-condensing |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 96 mm x 112 mm x 99 mm |
| Weight | Approximately 550 g (1.21 lbs) |
Commercial and Availability Logistics
- Product Condition: New Original (New Surplus) in factory packaging, or Refurbished (fully tested under long-term cyclic execution loads).
- Warranty: 12-month comprehensive technical warranty covering hardware components and communication interface stability.
- Availability: Available in surplus inventory stocks. Standard processing and international dispatch run 1 to 3 business days.
- Pricing Notice: The listed price is indicative. Pricing fluctuates based on global surplus availability, operating system provisioning, and hardware revision statuses; contact our sales desk for a firm, written quote.
Engineering Considerations and Field Deployment Notes
Mandatory Module System Configuration
The CX1020-0000 does not possess an autonomous internal power supply or discrete field wiring terminals. To boot and function, it must be mechanically coupled to a CX1100 series power supply module (e.g., CX1100-0002 for Bus Terminals or CX1100-0004 for EtherCAT Terminals) on its left-hand side. The right-hand side interfaces directly with fieldbus expansions or standard I/O slices.
CompactFlash Card Selection and OS Licensing
Because the CPU lacks an onboard solid-state drive or spinning hard disk, all operating system files and TwinCAT boot projects reside strictly on the insertable CompactFlash (CF) card slot. When replacing a failed CPU module, transfer the original CF card to the new unit, or ensure the replacement card is formatted with the exact sector structure, OS image, and TwinCAT license keys corresponding to your specific target system profile.
EtherNet/IP and Modbus Network Topology
The two integrated RJ45 ports are connected to an internal three-port switch block. This arrangement facilitates simple daisy-chain cabling layouts for localized programming, HMI connections, or EtherNet/IP / Modbus TCP slave communication loops without requiring an external network switch tray. However, these ports are not designed to drive real-time EtherCAT field links; EtherCAT terminal communications are driven directly through the E-bus backplane provided by the CX1100-0004 power supply module.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this unit be upgraded to run standard TwinCAT 3 runtime environments?
Yes, the x86 Intel architecture inside the CX1020-0000 supports TwinCAT 3 execution. However, because memory capacity is fixed at 512 MB RAM, large control projects with thousands of variables or extensive object-oriented extensions will experience high memory pressure. Verify performance requirements in a simulation environment before deployment.
What should I look for if the alphanumeric display remains completely blank upon powering up?
Confirm that the primary 24 V DC supply feeding the coupled CX1100 power module is stable and remains within the allowed +20\% to -15\% tolerance limits. If the incoming power rail is verified but the display remains dead, check the mechanical seating pins connecting the power module to the CPU, as an unseated backplane link will block the logic voltage lines.
Is the fanless cooling design safe for high-density control enclosures?
The CPU module relies entirely on natural passive convection cooling through the top and bottom chassis vents. When mounting the module to the DIN rail, ensure a minimum clear space buffer of 30 mm above and below the unit. Blocking these convective airflow channels will cause localized heat accumulation, accelerating CPU throttling or causing thermal shutdown faults during peak ambient summer operations.
Technical Notice: Always verify hardware revisions, component dimensions, and TwinCAT target platform compatibility charts in the official Beckhoff CX1020 hardware documentation before proceeding with live field commissioning or swapping critical automation modules.
