Beckhoff CX1020-0000 Embedded PC – Compact PC-based control for modular automation

The Beckhoff CX1020-0000 is a solid choice when you want true PC-based control in a DIN-rail form factor. From my experience, it’s a sweet spot for mid-range machines: fast enough for multi-axis motion and deterministic logic, yet compact and fanless so it quietly sits in the cabinet. The “-0000” variant ships without an operating system pre-installed, which many OEMs prefer for clean image deployment and tighter version control.

Our Order Placement Process & Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: 1 week if in stock; no more than 1 month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full balance prior to delivery
• Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• Intel Pentium M-class performance – Typically around 1.0 GHz, suitable for motion control, CNC light, and high-speed logic.
• Fanless, DIN-rail design – Quiet and reliable in control cabinets, with fewer moving parts to service.
• Dual Ethernet (10/100) – Separate machine and plant networks, or use one for EtherCAT master communication.
• DVI display output – Connects to an external monitor for local HMI; keeps the hardware count low.
• Scalable I/O – Attach Beckhoff K-bus or EtherCAT Terminals depending on the selected power/fieldbus module.
• TwinCAT-ready – Works with TwinCAT PLC and Motion; the -0000 hardware lets you load the image you standardize on.
• Industrial 24 V DC – Integrates cleanly with control power; typically low power draw for a PC-class controller.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

You might notice that CX1020-0000 sits comfortably in applications where cycle time and footprint both matter. Typical uses include:

• Packaging and converting lines with 4–16 axes of coordinated motion
• Assembly cells and robotic stations integrating EtherCAT Terminals
• Intralogistics subsystems: sorters, shuttles, gantries, and AGV interfaces
• Process skids and utilities with mixed analog/digital I/O and HMI
• Test benches and end-of-line inspection where PC tools and data logging are helpful

A customer in machine building summed it up well: “We standardized on CX1020 years ago. It’s fast enough for our servos, and we can image them in minutes. Downtime is rare, and replacements drop right in.”

Advantages & Value

• Lifecycle efficiency – PC-based control simplifies engineering; the same hardware can run PLC, motion, and HMI to cut component count.
• Network flexibility – Two Ethernet ports make segregating IT/OT or building line-topologies straightforward.
• I/O scalability – Add K-bus or EtherCAT Terminals as your channel count grows; no need to change the controller.
• Serviceability – Fanless design and Compact Flash storage make field swaps and imaging simple in many cases.
• Cost control – The -0000 variant lets you deploy your own OS and TwinCAT image, avoiding unnecessary preloads or licenses.
• Compatibility – Works smoothly with Beckhoff drives, terminals, and third‑party devices via standard fieldbuses.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & mounting – Install on a 35 mm DIN rail in a sealed control cabinet (IP20). Keep vertical orientation and allow ventilation space above/below the heat sink.
• Power & grounding – 24 V DC supply with protective earth; use clean control power and ferrules. From my experience, adding a small 24 V UPS smooths brownouts.
• Wiring & networking – Separate machine EtherCAT from plant IT where possible; shielded Ethernet cabling improves noise immunity.
• Environmental limits – Operate within 0…55 °C; avoid hotspots near VFDs and maintain airflow in the cabinet.
• Routine care – Periodically back up the Compact Flash image; schedule firmware/BIOS and TwinCAT updates during planned downtime. Check terminal blocks for torque and dust off heat sink fins as needed.
• Spare strategy – Keep a pre-imaged Compact Flash card; a cold swap usually gets you running fast.

Quality & Certifications

• CE conformant; UL/cUL (industrial control equipment) in most configurations
• RoHS compliant
• Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems by the OEM
• Warranty provided: 365 days

If you’re aligning on the exact CX power/bus module (K-bus vs. EtherCAT E-bus), or planning OS/TwinCAT image details, share your current panel layout and we’ll size the storage, RAM, and thermal clearances accordingly. That typically avoids surprises during commissioning.