CX5020-N031-0003 | BECKHOFF | Embedded PC Intel Atom Z530 RS485

Product Overview

The CX5020-N031-0003 (CX5020-N031-0003) is a high-performance, fanless Embedded PC designed for demanding PLC and Motion Control applications. Powered by an Intel Atom Z530 processor with a 1.6 GHz clock frequency, this unit provides the computational power necessary for complex automation tasks while maintaining a compact, DIN rail-mounted form factor. This specific "N031" configuration includes a factory-integrated RS485 interface, making it an ideal controller for systems requiring serial communication with field devices, such as energy meters, specialized sensors, or legacy drive systems. With its robust magnesium housing and wide operating temperature range of -25 to +60 Celsius, the CX5020-N031-0003 is engineered for long-term reliability in harsh industrial environments.

Technical Configuration

The hardware architecture of the CX5020-N031-0003 is centered on modularity and data security. It features a 1-second integrated UPS that ensures 1 MB of persistent data is safely written to the Compact Flash card during power failure, preventing the loss of critical process variables. The "N031-0003" variant is hardware-configured as a drop point with internal termination off, allowing the device to be integrated into the middle of an RS485 network segment without disrupting bus impedance. It supports dual-bus technology with automatic recognition of both EtherCAT (E-bus) and Bus Terminals (K-bus), providing a versatile interface for diverse I/O configurations. The unit also includes dual Gigabit Ethernet ports and four USB 2.0 interfaces for high-speed connectivity and peripheral expansion.

Technical Specifications

Technical FAQs

What is the significance of the TwinCAT 3 "Performance (40)" level for this unit?

The platform level indicates the processing power available for TwinCAT 3 runtimes. A level of 40 (Performance) allows the CX5020-N031-0003 to handle medium-to-complex PLC logic, HMI tasks, and coordinated motion control axes with deterministic precision.

Can the memory on this unit be upgraded?

The 512 MB RAM is expandable ex-factory to 1 GB. The Flash memory uses a standard Compact Flash slot, allowing for larger cards to be used for data logging or more extensive operating system requirements.

Is the UPS capable of keeping the PC running during a power outage?

No, the 1-second UPS is a functional safety feature specifically designed to provide enough energy to save the "Retain" data to the Flash card. It is not intended to support continued operation of the PC without a 24 VDC main supply.

Engineering & Installation Guide

• RS485 Network Placement: Since this model is configured as a drop point with termination OFF, it must be placed as an intermediate node in your serial chain. If you move this unit to the physical end of the cable, you must install an external 120 Ohm termination resistor across the D-sub pins to prevent signal reflections.

• Compact Flash Handling: Always ensure the "Flash Access" LED is not active before removing power or the CF card. While the 1-second UPS protects persistent data, abrupt power loss during general OS writes can lead to file system corruption if the UPS capacity is exceeded.

• Thermal Clearances: To maintain fanless cooling, the unit must be mounted vertically. Ensure a minimum clearance of 30 mm above and below the PC to allow for natural convection. In high-vibration environments, verify that the DIN rail lock is fully engaged to prevent intermittent I/O bus connections.

• Grounding and EMI: Connect the power supply ground to a central PE (Protective Earth) rail. For the RS485 serial connection, use high-quality shielded cables and ensure the D-sub housing makes good contact with the shield to prevent electromagnetic noise from affecting serial data frames.