Description
Engineered for direct integration into control cabinets and machine consoles, the Beckhoff CP6701-0020-0050 serves as an industrial-grade human-machine interface (HMI) and processing terminal. This fanless, compact panel PC combines a robust 12-inch 800x600 display with an Intel Atom E3815 processor to deliver reliable performance for TwinCAT-driven automation applications. Built with a durable aluminum front and a sheet-steel rear cover, it provides a high-reliability hardware base for space-constrained, machine-level visualization and control system deployment.
Key Features
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Industrial Display: 12-inch TFT display with an 800x600 resolution and a single-finger resistive touch screen.
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Embedded Processing: Power-efficient Intel Atom E3815 processor (1.46 GHz, single-core) optimized for PLC and motion control architectures.
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Dual Gigabit Ethernet: Dual on-board 100/1000BASE-T RJ45 ports for isolated control network and plant network separation.
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Fanless Design: Passive cooling via an optimized internal heat sink, minimizing particulate ingress and mechanical failure points.
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Robust Storage & Memory: Equipped with 2 GB DDR3L RAM and a dedicated 40 GB CFast card slot for fast read/write cycle execution.
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IP-Rated Protection: IP65 protection on the front face against fluid spray and dust, with IP20 protection on the rear terminal cover.
Applications
- Machine-level HMI visualization and plant monitoring.
- Embedded PLC, motion control, and TwinCAT-based logic execution.
- Dedicated communication gateway and data concentration in manufacturing environments.
- CNC machinery interface and tool control applications.
Technical Specifications
| Manufacturer |
Beckhoff Automation |
| Model / Article Number |
CP6701-0020-0050 |
| Display Size & Type |
12-inch TFT with single-finger touch screen |
| Resolution |
800 x 600 pixels |
| Processor |
Intel Atom E3815 (1.46 GHz, 1 Core, TwinCAT Performance Class 40) |
| Memory |
2 GB DDR3L RAM |
| Storage System |
40 GB CFast card (1 accessible slot) |
| Interfaces |
2 x RJ45 Ethernet (100/1000BASE-T), 4 x USB 2.0, 1 x DVI-D |
| Operating Voltage |
24 V DC |
| Operating System |
Windows Embedded Compact 7, English |
| Housing Material |
Aluminum front panel, sheet-steel rear cover |
| Protection Class |
Front IP65, Rear IP20 |
| Operating Temperature |
0 to 55 degC |
| Shipping Weight (Calculated) |
3.00 kg |
Connections and Interfaces
| Port / Interface |
Description & Purpose |
| LAN1 / LAN2 |
2 x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet ports for connection to EtherCAT or plant networks |
| USB 1 - 4 |
4 x USB 2.0 host ports for peripheral devices, keyboard, or mouse integration |
| DVI |
1 x DVI output port for driving an external, secondary monitor |
| Power |
3-pin screw terminal block for stable 24 V DC power feed |
| CFast Slot |
Dedicated slot populated with a high-durability industrial CFast storage card |
Empirical Engineering Insights
Alternative Models & Compatibility
This model belongs to the CP67xx series of built-in Panel PCs. Users transitioning from older CP66xx platforms will notice the performance improvements of the Intel Atom E38xx family, which is classified under TwinCAT Performance Class 40. This allows for small-to-medium motion control profiles alongside traditional PLC logic. Note that when replacing models with different screen aspects, cutout dimensions must be carefully cross-checked against standard 12-inch dimensions.
Application Pitfalls & Engineering Notes
Because this device relies strictly on passive, fanless thermal dissipation, cabinet installations must allow for at least 50 mm of vertical clearance above and below the rear sheet-metal cover to prevent thermal throttling under high CPU load. Ensure that write filters (such as Unified Write Filter or Enhanced Write Filter) are properly configured in Windows Embedded Compact 7 to prevent premature wear on the CFast card from repeated database or log writes.
Commissioning & Wiring Tips
When connecting the 24 V DC power supply, use a low-impedance ground connection directly from the terminal block to the main functional earth bar of the cabinet. Shielded Ethernet cables (S/FTP Cat6 or better) are highly recommended when using the on-board LAN interfaces for EtherCAT master communications to eliminate electromagnetic noise interference from adjacent variable frequency drives or high-current contactors.
Installation Guidelines
CRITICAL WARNING: Completely de-energize the entire control cabinet before beginning mechanical installation or physical connection routines. Verify that all 24 V DC power sources are locked out and tagged out to prevent accidental power restoration, which can cause terminal damage or severe equipment faulting.
1
Prepare the cabinet cutout to match the precise dimensions specified for the 12-inch built-in housing. Ensure the edges are clean and free of metal filings.
2
Ensure the IP65 rubber sealing gasket is flat and securely seated around the front aluminum flange of the panel PC before inserting it into the cutout.
3
Deploy the integrated pull-out clamping levers from the rear cover, tightening them evenly to pull the front flange flush against the cabinet wall, establishing an air-tight IP65 seal.
4
Connect the 3-pin 24 V DC power plug, securing the terminal screws, and route the functional ground connection back to the main ground terminal.