CX5120-N031-0002 BECKHOFF Intel Atom Embedded PC with RS485 Interface

Product Overview

The CX5120-N031-0002 (CX5120N0310002) is a high-performance, fanless Embedded PC designed for DIN rail mounting, featuring a power-efficient Intel Atom® multi-core processor. This specific configuration is distinguished by its integrated RS485 interface, provided via a standard 9-pin D-sub socket. Engineered for B2B industrial automation environments such as building control, heavy machinery, and infrastructure monitoring, the CX5120-N031-0002 serves as a robust master controller capable of bridging modern EtherCAT networks with legacy serial communication protocols. Its compact design and high thermal stability make it a reliable choice for decentralized control architectures where space and reliability are paramount.

Technical Configuration (Deep Dive)

The CX5120-N031-0002 is optimized for serial networking, specifically configured for RS485 communication. The interface logic is factory-set as a drop point (node) without echo, and with internal termination disabled (termination off). This allows for flexible integration into existing multi-drop bus topologies where external termination resistors may already be in place.

Unlike the earlier CX50xx series, the CX51xx family utilizes advanced Intel Atom® architecture to provide higher compute power at a similar power envelope. The N031-0002 variant ensures that the system can communicate directly with Modbus RTU devices, frequency inverters, or other serial-based field equipment without the need for additional gateway modules. It maintains the series' hallmark flexibility by offering automatic bus recognition for both E-bus (EtherCAT) and K-bus (Bus Terminals) expansion.

Technical Specifications

Technical FAQs

Can the RS485 termination be enabled via software?

The hardware is configured as termination off. In an RS485 network, if this controller is the first or last node, an external 120-ohm resistor should be applied to the D-sub connector according to standard RS485 wiring practices to ensure signal integrity.

Does this unit support both TwinCAT 2 and TwinCAT 3?

Yes. The CX5120 hardware is a modern platform that supports TwinCAT 3 (XAR) for advanced multi-core processing, as well as TwinCAT 2 for maintaining legacy applications.

Is the RS485 port galvanically isolated?

Yes, Beckhoff N031-xxxx series interfaces generally provide internal galvanic isolation to protect the CPU core from common-mode voltage surges and ground loops common in long-distance serial wiring.

Engineering & Installation Guide

• Serial Wiring Precision: When wiring the 9-pin D-sub for RS485, ensure the use of twisted-pair shielded cable. The shield should be grounded at a single point to prevent ground loops. Since this unit is configured without echo, it is ideal for standard 2-wire half-duplex communication.

• Thermal Management: For optimal fanless cooling, mount the device horizontally. Ensure that the vertical airflow is not obstructed by cable ducts or other heat-generating components. The -25 to +60 Celsius range is only guaranteed with proper convective clearance.

• Bus Selection: Upon first boot, the CX5120 will automatically detect the attached terminal type (E-bus or K-bus). If you change the terminal technology on a pre-configured system, a TwinCAT "Scan" or "Reload Devices" may be required to update the process image.

Engineering Advantages

The CX5120-N031-0002 excels in versatility. By combining a modern Intel Atom® CPU with a legacy RS485 port, it eliminates the hardware "silo" between high-speed motion control and traditional serial field devices. Its high vibration and shock resistance (conforming to EN 60068-2-6/27) makes it suitable for mounting on moving machinery or in rugged environments. Furthermore, the Performance (40) platform level for TwinCAT 3 provides sufficient overhead for sophisticated PLC, Motion, and HMI tasks, making this Embedded PC an all-in-one solution for diverse industrial B2B applications.