Beckhoff CX8050 CX8000 Series Embedded PC with CANopen Master

Description

Designed to integrate seamlessly into modular control architectures, the Beckhoff CX8050 serves as a compact, DIN-rail-mountable controller featuring an integrated CANopen master interface. This high-performance device is powered by a 400 MHz ARM9 processor and executes control logic via TwinCAT 2, allowing for highly efficient decentralized processing. Engineered with automatic recognition for both E-bus and K-bus terminal networks, this embedded PC provides a flexible path for interfacing local physical inputs and outputs directly with a CANopen fieldbus trunk. The inclusion of a robust 1-second UPS guarantees the secure storage of critical non-volatile application data onto the 512 MB microSD card in the event of power interruption.

Features

• Integrated CANopen Master: Dedicated 9-pin D-sub fieldbus interface with galvanic isolation for reliable communication across industrial networks.
• Dual Bus Auto-Detection: Automatic runtime recognition of connected E-bus (EtherCAT) or K-bus (standard Beckhoff Bus Terminals) interfaces.
• Non-Volatile Data Protection: Capacitive 1-second UPS preserves up to 1 MB of critical persistent variable data to flash storage during unexpected power loss.
• Flexible Memory Options: Equipped with a 512 MB microSD flash card, expandable to support larger local visualization files or log databases.
• Embedded Architecture: Runs Windows Embedded CE 6 for deterministic, low-latency execution of industrial automation logic.

Applications

• Distributed Fieldbus Control: Serving as a primary gateway or master controller in industrial installations utilizing CANopen-compliant drives, sensors, and remote I/O blocks.
• Modular Machine Building: Ideal for packaging, assembly, and conveyor systems requiring localized control units that seamlessly bridge distinct communication layers.
• Hazardous Area Deployments: Rated for demanding physical conditions under ATEX, IECEx, and Class I Division 2 safety standards.

Technical Specifications

Connections and Interfaces

Empirical Engineering Insights

Alternative Models & Compatibility

The CX8050 belongs strictly to the TwinCAT 2 programming landscape. It does not support TwinCAT 3 runtimes. For newer configurations that demand TwinCAT 3 support or multicore ARM performance, systems should consider migrating toward the Beckhoff CX8190 series, which also incorporates newer operating system configurations such as Windows Embedded Compact 7.

Application Pitfalls & Engineering Notes

The built-in 1-second UPS utilizes internal capacitive storage to safely write persistent variables to the microSD card. If the operating system or system configuration is constantly cycling power, ensure that the controller runs continuously for at least two minutes between power downs. Rapid, back-to-back power cycling will deplete the capacitive backup reservoir, preventing the persistent data block from saving correctly during the second cycle and potentially leading to parameter initialization errors.

Commissioning & Wiring Tips

When establishing a physical connection on the 9-pin D-sub CANopen trunk, remember that terminating resistors are not integrated into the hardware interface. A 120-ohm terminating resistor must be connected externally at both ends of the CAN bus trunk line to minimize signal reflections and ensure operational stability. When mixing or switching terminal types, remember that K-bus and E-bus modules cannot be mixed arbitrarily on the same segment without terminal bus coupling modules.

Installation Guidelines