Engineered for high-performance industrial control, the Beckhoff CX2020-0123 basic CPU module integrates an Intel Celeron 1.4 GHz processor to execute complex PLC, NC, and CNC tasks within a compact, DIN-rail mountable form factor. This embedded PC serves as the central processing unit of a CX2000 controller configuration, providing robust computational power, dual independent Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, and native integration with the TwinCAT 2 NC I runtime environment. Designed for demanding industrial environments, it features a fanless, passive cooling design and non-volatile NOVRAM for reliable data retention without battery backup.
Key Features
- High-performance Intel Celeron 827E 1.4 GHz single-core processor.
- Integrated 128 kB NOVRAM for non-volatile, battery-free retention of critical variables.
- Dual independent RJ45 ports supporting 10/100/1000 Mbit/s for network segregation.
- Flexible I/O integration with automatic detection of E-bus (EtherCAT) or K-bus (Bus Terminal) systems.
- Four USB 2.0 ports and one DVI-I port for direct HMI and peripheral connectivity.
- Pre-installed Windows Embedded Standard 7 P operating system.
Industrial Applications
- High-speed packaging machinery requiring precise multi-axis synchronization.
- CNC machine tool integration utilizing TwinCAT NC I interpolation.
- Distributed manufacturing lines utilizing high-throughput EtherCAT topologies.
- Process automation systems requiring robust non-volatile data logging.
Technical Specifications
| Specification Parameter |
Technical Value |
| Manufacturer |
Beckhoff |
| Model / Article Number |
CX2020-0123 |
| Processor |
Intel Celeron 827E 1.4 GHz (Single Core) |
| Main Memory |
2 GB DDR3 RAM (expandable ex factory to 4 GB) |
| Persistent Memory |
128 kB NOVRAM integrated |
| Flash Memory |
CFast card slot (20 GB or 40 GB depending on OS) |
| Operating System |
Windows Embedded Standard 7 P |
| Control Software |
TwinCAT 2 NC I runtime |
| TwinCAT 3 Platform Level |
Performance Plus (50) |
| Supply Voltage |
24 VDC (-15% / +20%) |
| Max. Power Consumption |
21 W |
| Protection Rating |
IP20 |
| Operating Temperature |
-25 to +60 degC |
| Storage Temperature |
-40 to +85 degC |
| Relative Humidity |
95%, non-condensing |
| Vibration/Shock Resistance |
Conforms to EN 60068-2-6 / EN 60068-2-27 |
| EMC Immunity/Emission |
Conforms to EN 61000-6-2 / EN 61000-6-4 |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) |
144 mm x 99 mm x 91 mm |
| Weight |
1160 g |
| Shipping Weight (Calculated) |
3.0 kg |
Connections and Interfaces
| Interface Port |
Functional Assignment |
| LAN1 (RJ45) |
Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbit/s), PCIe-based |
| LAN2 (RJ45) |
Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbit/s), PCIe-based |
| DVI-I |
Connection for digital or analog monitor (VGA via adapter) |
| USB 1 - 4 |
USB 2.0 Type A interfaces for external peripherals (Max. 500 mA per port) |
| Optional Interface Slot |
Accommodates optional fieldbus or serial interfaces (e.g., Profibus, CANopen, RS232/RS485) |
| PC104 Connector |
Internal bus connection for system modules (left-side expansion) |
Empirical Engineering Insights
Alternative Models & Compatibility
The CX2020-0123 is pre-configured with TwinCAT 2 NC I. If upgrading to TwinCAT 3, ensure the target runtime license matches Platform Level 50 (Performance Plus). Note that while the hardware supports Windows Embedded Standard 7, migrating to Windows 10 IoT Enterprise requires a hardware revision check and a larger CFast card (minimum 40 GB recommended).
Application Pitfalls & Engineering Notes
Passive cooling relies on vertical mounting on a standard DIN rail. Installing the unit horizontally or restricting airflow below 100mm clearance will cause thermal throttling of the Celeron CPU under high PLC cycle loads. If operating near the upper limit of 60 degC, consider the factory-fitted active cooling option (CX2020-xxxx-0002).
Commissioning & Wiring Tips
Always use shielded Cat.6 or Cat.6A cabling for the dual RJ45 ports to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) from adjacent variable frequency drives (VFDs) from disrupting EtherCAT communication. Ensure the functional earth (FE) is connected directly to the DIN rail via the grounding spring on the back of the housing.
Installation Guidelines
CRITICAL WARNING
Risk of electrical shock and equipment damage. Disconnect all power sources before mounting, wiring, or removing the CX2020-0123 module. Verify that the 24 VDC power supply is completely de-energized. Failure to follow these precautions can result in severe hardware damage or personal injury.
1
Mount the CX2020-0123 on a 35 mm DIN rail (EN 60715) by hooking the top of the rail clip and pressing down until it snaps securely.
2
Connect the power supply module (e.g., CX2100-0014) to the right side of the CPU module, ensuring the internal bus connectors align perfectly.
3
Insert a compatible, pre-configured Beckhoff CFast card containing the operating system and TwinCAT boot project into the designated slot.
4
Connect the network cables to the RJ45 ports and the DVI-I monitor cable if local visualization is required.
5
Apply 24 VDC power and monitor the diagnostic LEDs (Power, TC, Flash) to verify successful boot sequence.