Product overview
The Beckhoff CX9020-0111 is a compact, DIN-rail-mounted industrial computer used as a PLC, automation controller and communication gateway.
It combines a 1 GHz Arm Cortex-A8 processor, Ethernet, USB, DVI-D, non-volatile memory and direct Beckhoff EtherCAT/K-bus terminal connectivity in one controller. The CX9020-0111 version is supplied with Windows Embedded Compact 7 and the TwinCAT 2 PLC Runtime. Official Beckhoff CX9020 product page.
Technical specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Arm Cortex-A8 |
| Processor speed | 1 GHz |
| Processor cores | 1 |
| Main memory | 1 GB DDR3 RAM |
| Flash storage | Two microSD-card slots |
| Included storage | 512 MB microSD card, configuration-dependent |
| Non-volatile memory | 128 kB NOVRAM |
| Operating system | Windows Embedded Compact 7 |
| PLC software | TwinCAT 2 PLC Runtime |
| Ethernet | Two switched 10/100 Mbit/s RJ45 ports |
| USB | Four USB 2.0 ports |
| Video output | One DVI-D port |
| I/O connection | Beckhoff E-bus or K-bus |
| Bus recognition | Automatic E-bus/K-bus detection |
| Supply voltage | 24 VDC, −15%/+20% |
| Maximum controller consumption | Approximately 5 W |
| Terminal-bus current | Maximum 2 A |
| Cooling | Passive, fanless |
| Operating temperature | −25°C to +60°C |
| Dimensions | Approximately 84 × 100 × 91 mm |
| Weight | Approximately 590 g |
| Mounting | 35 mm DIN rail |
| Real-time clock | Battery-backed |
| Optional interfaces | Serial, CANopen, PROFIBUS and EtherCAT slave options |
Main features
- PLC and industrial PC in one compact controller
- Fanless construction
- Integrated TwinCAT 2 PLC Runtime
- Direct connection to Beckhoff EtherCAT and K-bus terminals
- Two internally switched Ethernet ports
- Four USB interfaces
- DVI-D output for local HMI or monitor
- Non-volatile memory for retaining important process data
- Two replaceable microSD-card slots
- Extended industrial operating-temperature range
- Compact DIN-rail installation
- Suitable for controller replacement and legacy-system support
Marine and industrial applications
- Machinery automation
- Engine-room auxiliary control
- Pump and valve sequencing
- Generator auxiliary panels
- Cargo-handling equipment
- Crane and winch control
- HVAC automation
- Process skids
- Production machinery
- Remote-I/O control stations
- Data acquisition
- Alarm and monitoring systems
- Building automation
- Test and measurement equipment
Suitability for a class-critical marine installation must be confirmed against the applicable environmental and classification requirements.
Important lifecycle information
Beckhoff currently lists the CX9020 under regular delivery but not recommended for new projects. The recommended modern alternative is the CX9240.
This makes the CX9020-0111 particularly relevant for:
- Direct replacement in existing machinery
- Recovery of failed legacy PLC systems
- Maintaining compatibility with TwinCAT 2 programs
- Systems using Windows Embedded Compact 7
- Installations already wired with CX9020 terminals and interfaces
Microsoft support for Windows Embedded Compact 7 has ended, so it should not normally be selected for a completely new network-connected system.
Version comparison
| Model | Operating system and runtime |
|---|---|
| CX9020-0100 | No operating system; no TwinCAT |
| CX9020-0110 | Windows Embedded Compact 7; no TwinCAT |
| CX9020-0111 | Windows Embedded Compact 7; TwinCAT 2 PLC Runtime |
| CX9020-0112 | Windows Embedded Compact 7; TwinCAT 2 NC PTP Runtime |
| CX9020-0115 | Windows Embedded Compact 7; TwinCAT 3 Runtime without licences |
These versions are not automatically interchangeable because the operating system and TwinCAT runtime differ.
