Description
Designed for direct integration into machine control enclosures, the Beckhoff CP6603-0020-0020 Built-In Panel PC combines a high-performance ARM Cortex-A8 1 GHz processor with a 5.7-inch display to deliver dedicated visualization and control. This fanless device functions as a compact, industrial-grade operator interface, featuring a 5.7-inch active matrix TFT display with 640 x 480 VGA resolution and single-finger analog resistive touch technology. Designed with a robust aluminum front bezel and sheet-steel rear cover, it withstands demanding plant floor environments. The integrated 128 kByte NOVRAM ensures non-volatile data storage during power disruptions, backed by a capacitive 1-second UPS. Running Windows Embedded Compact 7, the CP6603-0020-0020 serves as an ideal hardware platform for TwinCAT 2 and TwinCAT 3 PLC and Motion Control runtimes (Performance Class 30).
Key Features
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High-Performance Processing: Powered by an ARM Cortex-A8 CPU running at 1 GHz with 1 GB DDR3 RAM.
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Industrial Display: Features a high-contrast 5.7-inch TFT display with single-touch analog resistive touch screen.
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Dedicated Interfaces: On-board RJ45 Ethernet and dedicated RJ45 EtherCAT interfaces facilitate high-speed fieldbus communications.
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Non-Volatile Memory: Integrated 128 kByte NOVRAM retains persistent control state variables without battery backup.
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Integrated UPS: Equipped with a capacitive 1-second UPS to ensure safe data persistence during unexpected power loss.
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Expandable Storage: Features 1 microSD card slot, populated with a default flash card, expandable up to 16 GB.
Industrial Applications
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Machine Level HMI: Provides compact control and local visualization on packaging, assembly, and wood-processing machinery.
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EtherCAT Master Controller: Serves as a localized, high-speed master controller coordinating remote I/O nodes and servo drives.
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Specialized Process Nodes: Ideal for compact process installations requiring localized processing with persistent memory requirements.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Manufacturer |
Beckhoff Automation |
| Model Number |
CP6603-0020-0020 |
| Processor |
ARM Cortex-A8, 1 GHz (TwinCAT Performance Class 30) |
| System Memory |
1 GB DDR3 RAM |
| Display Size & Resolution |
5.7-inch TFT, 640 x 480 VGA |
| Touch Technology |
Single-touch analog resistive |
| Persistent Memory |
128 kByte NOVRAM |
| Interfaces |
1 x RJ45 10/100Base-T Ethernet, 1 x RJ45 EtherCAT, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x RS232 |
| Storage Slot |
1 x microSD slot (supports up to 16 GB; default 512 MB included) |
| Power Supply |
24 V DC (-15 percent / +20 percent) |
| UPS Technology |
Capacitive 1-second UPS (retains NOVRAM variables) |
| Operating System |
Windows Embedded Compact 7 (English) |
| Protection Rating |
Front IP65, Rear IP20 |
| Operating Temperature |
0 to 55 degC (ambient operating) |
| Country of Origin |
Germany |
| Shipping Weight |
5.0 kg (including secure transit packaging) |
Connections and Interfaces
| Port / Interface |
Connection Type |
Function |
| Power Input |
3-pin removable screw terminal |
24 V DC power supply connection plus functional ground |
| Ethernet (LAN) |
RJ45 (10/100Base-T) |
Upper-level network, host integration, or Modbus TCP communication |
| EtherCAT |
RJ45 |
Direct EtherCAT network connection to field devices and couplers |
| USB Ports |
2 x USB 2.0 Type A |
Peripheral connection (keyboard, mouse, flash drives) |
| COM1 |
D-sub 9-pin, male |
RS232 serial communication interface |
Empirical Engineering Insights
Alternative Models & Compatibility
The CP6603 series features several configurations. The CP6603-0020-0020 is specifically configured with Windows Embedded Compact 7. When substituting an older unit running Windows CE 6 (such as the CP6603-0000-0000), check your custom compiled C++ or .NET visual software dependencies, as DLL targets may require recompilation for WEC7 compatibility.
Application Pitfalls & Engineering Notes
Because this is a passively cooled, fanless Panel PC, keeping physical clearances around the sheet-steel rear cover is critical. In tight, unventilated control boxes, heat build-up can lead to CPU throttling. Always maintain at least 50 mm of free air space above and below the rear enclosure. Also, while the system features a 1-second UPS, this UPS is capacitive and designed strictly to write non-volatile data from RAM to the NOVRAM; it does not sustain full OS operation during long power outages.
Commissioning & Wiring Tips
To ensure stable communication on the EtherCAT interface, do not route the RJ45 fieldbus cables parallel to high-voltage AC motor lines. Always ground the Panel PC chassis directly to the main mounting plate using a low-impedance ground strap connected to the designated ground lug on the rear of the unit. This step prevents high-frequency electrical noise from disrupting the resistive touch panel sensor.
Installation Guidelines
CRITICAL WARNING:
Isolate and lock out all 24 V DC power sources before starting physical mounting or wiring tasks. Touching live electrical terminations can damage internal electronic circuits and lead to physical equipment malfunctions.
1
Prepare a cutout in the front panel of the control cabinet. Ensure the cutout dimensions match the panel physical requirements, deburring all rough edges to ensure a reliable seal.
2
Carefully insert the Panel PC into the cutout from the front, ensuring the front sealing gasket sits flat and flush against the outer cabinet face.
3
From the rear, mount and engage the pull-out clamping levers. Tighten them evenly to compress the front gasket for full IP65 ingress protection.
4
Wire the 24 V DC power connector, ensuring proper polarity. Terminate the functional ground conductor directly to the chassis ground connection before energizing the system.