Product overview
CX8050, CX8051 - Embedded-PCs for
CANopen and CAN
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Version: 1.4
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Product overview
4.1
CX80xx - System overview
CX80xx is a device family of programmable controllers with 32-bit ARM-based CPU, which can be used for
processing of PLC programs or as slave devices for higher-level fieldbus systems. Unlike with the non-
programmable EtherCAT couplers of the EK series, which only act as gateway between the associated
fieldbus system and the connected EtherCAT terminals, the CX80xx is programmable and able to run its
own control program.
The devices from the CX80xx series represent a further development of the well-known and proven 16-bit
microcontroller-based Bus Terminal Controllers from the BC and BX series including more efficient 32-bit
processors. As with the BC/BX, it is also ensured in the case of the CX80xx that the control and the local
program continue to be executed in the case of interruption of the higher-level fieldbus system. The CX80xx
devices can therefore be used as local controllers. Alternatively, Bus Terminals (K-bus) or EtherCAT
Terminals (E-bus) can be connected; the CX80xx automatically recognizes which terminal system is
connected during the start-up phase. The use of EtherCAT gives rise to further options, such as the
realization of different topologies, the integration of further bus systems such as CANopen, PROFIBUS and
PROFINET and – with the EtherCAT Box Modules – connection to the IP67 world.
Like all CX products, the CX80xx devices are programmed and commissioned via the Ethernet interface,
which can, of course, also be used for connection of the control system with a regular network. Some of the
Embedded PCs have further Ethernet interfaces with switch functions, so that a linear "daisy chain" topology
can be constructed inexpensively, without additional hardware. The other connections on the lower plug level
are fieldbus-specific. Under the cover at the upper housing level there is an exchangeable button cell for
date and time, a set of DIP switches for setting function modes, a slot for Micro-SD Flash memory cards and
a type B USB connection. Thanks to their low power consumption, the devices are fanless.
Microsoft Windows CE is used as the operating system. In the absence of a monitor port, the operating
system and its "virtual" display can only be accessed via the network. As for all other Beckhoff devices, the
TwinCAT software is used for system configuration and the programming of the PLC functionality. The
CX80xx target device features a pre-installed TwinCAT PLC runtime environment. All software required for
operating the device, including the operating system, the TwinCAT files and user files and data, is stored on
the MicroSD Flash card. This simplifies exchange in the case of service. Commercial card readers can be
used to access the card data. The size of the MicroSD Flash card (e.g. 512 MB) can be chosen depending
on the application and the quantity of data to be stored.
The CX80xx device family features an integrated, capacitive 1-second UPS, which in the event of a failure of
the supply voltage provides sufficient energy for saving persistent data. Important data are thus preserved in
a non-volatile manner without battery backup.
With a high-performance but nevertheless energy-saving 32-bit ARM processor, EtherCAT as I/O bus and
TwinCAT PLC with extensive PLC libraries, the Embedded Controllers from the CX80xx series represent
high-performance and versatile controllers with slave fieldbus connection.
Summary of Contents for CX8050
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