CX5140-N031 Beckhoff Embedded PC with Intel Atom Processor

Product Overview

The CX5140-N031 (CX5140N031) is a high-performance, fanless Embedded PC from the Beckhoff CX5100 series, designed for DIN rail mounting in demanding industrial automation environments. Powered by a multi-core Intel Atom® processor, this controller balances high computational power with low energy consumption. The specific N031 variant is factory-equipped with an integrated RS485 interface, enabling direct communication with serial field devices, legacy PLCs, or specialized sensors without the need for additional I/O terminals. Ideal for medium-to-complex control tasks, the CX5140-N031 excels in machine building, building automation, and distributed processing where a compact, ruggedized Windows-based or TwinCAT-driven controller is required.

Advanced Serial Interface Logic

The integrated RS485 interface on the CX5140-N031 is configured through a standard 9-pin D-sub socket. This specific hardware revision is optimized for high-reliability serial networking, pre-configured as a network end point with internal termination switched on. This setup is critical for preventing signal reflections in RS485 loops, ensuring data integrity over long cable runs. Additionally, the interface operates without echo, meaning the transmitter does not receive its own data back, which simplifies software driver development and reduces CPU overhead during rapid polling cycles.

Technical Specifications

Implementation FAQs

What are the wiring requirements for the N031 RS485 port?

Since the module is configured with termination ON, it must be placed at the physical start or end of your RS485 bus. Use high-quality shielded twisted-pair (STP) cabling and ensure the D-sub hood is properly grounded to the CX5140 chassis to mitigate industrial EMI.

Does the fanless design limit the Intel Atom's performance?

No, the CX5140-N031 utilizes a sophisticated heat-sink chassis. The Intel Atom processor is selected for its high performance-per-watt ratio, allowing the PC to run complex TwinCAT PLC or Motion Control tasks at ambient temperatures up to 60 Celsius without thermal throttling.

Can I change the termination or echo settings via software?

While basic communication parameters (baud rate, parity) are software-defined in TwinCAT, the N031 hardware configuration (termination and echo suppression) is typically fixed at the factory level. If your network topology changes and the PC is no longer an end point, an external bus splitter or a different N-option module may be required.

Field Engineering & Installation Guide

• Interface Protection: The 9-pin D-sub socket is a precision component. When connecting field devices, ensure the mounting screws are finger-tight to prevent vibration-induced loosening, which can lead to intermittent "Bus Off" errors in your serial protocol.

• Power Supply Stability: Ensure the 24 VDC power supply to the CX5140 is filtered. Sudden voltage drops can cause the Intel Atom processor to initiate a safety shutdown. For mission-critical applications, the use of a Beckhoff UPS module (like the CX2100-09xx) is highly recommended to protect the persistent data on the CFast card.

• Mounting Orientation: To optimize the fanless cooling system, the CX5140-N031 should always be mounted horizontally on a DIN rail. Vertical mounting reduces the effectiveness of the convection cooling fins and may require de-rating of the processor's maximum load.

Engineering Advantages

The CX5140-N031 offers a "One-Box" solution for modernizing legacy systems. By integrating an RS485 port directly onto a high-speed Intel Atom PC, Beckhoff allows engineers to bridge the gap between legacy Modbus RTU devices and modern EtherCAT-based control logic. The 3 kg ruggedized housing acts as a massive heat sink and provides superior mechanical protection against the shocks and vibrations found in heavy industrial environments. With its ability to run TwinCAT 3, this embedded PC provides a future-proof platform for Industrie 4.0 applications, combining the flexibility of a PC with the reliability of a traditional PLC.