CX5140-N031-0002 BECKHOFF Embedded PC Intel Atom® with RS485

Product Overview

The CX5140-N031-0002 (CX5140-N031-0002) is a high-performance Embedded PC from the Beckhoff CX5100 series, specifically tailored for sophisticated industrial automation and communication tasks. Powered by a multi-core Intel Atom® processor, this fanless controller provides the computational overhead required for complex PLC logic, motion control, and high-level visualization. This specific variant is equipped with the N031 optional interface, providing a dedicated RS485 serial communication port. Engineered for durability on the plant floor, the CX5140 excels in decentralized control architectures where high-speed E-bus processing and robust serial connectivity are essential for integrating legacy field devices or specialized sensors into an EtherCAT-based system.

Technical Configuration

The CX5140-N031-0002 architecture is optimized for real-time performance and modularity. The core processing power is delivered by an Intel Atom® CPU, supported by a fast internal bus and extensive diagnostic capabilities. The integrated N031 interface features a 9-pin D-sub socket, hardware-configured for RS485 communication. This interface is set as a "drop point" without echo and with termination switched off, making it ready for integration into existing RS485 network chains. The module supports direct connection to Beckhoff I/O terminals (E-bus or K-bus) and features multiple connectivity options, including dual independent Gigabit Ethernet ports and a multi-option interface, all housed in a rugged, thermally-optimized metal chassis.

Technical Specifications

Technical FAQs

How do I enable the termination resistor for the RS485 interface?

The CX5140-N031-0002 is shipped with termination "Off." If this unit is the last device in your RS485 chain, you must use a D-sub connector with an integrated termination resistor or enable it via software/hardware jumpers depending on the specific internal build of the N031 module.

Is this Embedded PC capable of running TwinCAT 3?

Yes. The CX5140 series is a flagship platform for TwinCAT 3. Its multi-core Intel Atom® processor is ideally suited for distributing PLC, Motion, and HMI tasks across separate CPU cores for maximum deterministic performance.

What is the significance of the "Without Echo" configuration for RS485?

"Without Echo" means the transceiver does not read back the data it has just transmitted. This is standard for 2-wire half-duplex RS485 communication, preventing the processor from receiving its own transmitted bytes as incoming data, which simplifies the communication driver logic.

Engineering & Installation Guide

Thermal Management and Mounting Position:

The CX5140 is a fanless device and relies on natural convection. It must be mounted horizontally on a DIN rail (with the cooling fins running vertically). Ensure a minimum clearance of 30 mm above and below the unit. In environments exceeding 45 Celsius, verify that the airflow within the cabinet is sufficient to prevent the Intel Atom® processor from thermal throttling.

RS485 Serial Wiring and Grounding:

When wiring the D-sub 9-pin connector for RS485, use high-quality twisted-pair shielded cables. Since this unit is configured as a "drop point," ensure the cable shield is grounded at the entry point of the cabinet to mitigate electromagnetic interference (EMI). Avoid routing the serial cable parallel to high-voltage motor power leads to prevent data corruption on the RS485 bus.

System Startup and Power Supply:

The CX5140 requires a stable 24 VDC power supply. Use a dedicated power source for the Embedded PC that is separate from the inductive load supply (valves/motors). This prevents voltage dips during heavy actuator switching from causing unplanned system reboots or data corruption on the internal storage media (CFast card).