Beckhoff CX1100-0920 CX Series UPS Module

Description

Providing short-term backup power for orderly system shutdowns, the Beckhoff CX1100-0920 is an integrated capacitive UPS module engineered for direct system bus integration with CX series Embedded PCs. Operating via a 16-bit ISA PC/104 standard system interface, this hardware module prevents critical data loss during sudden mains failure by supplying buffered energy directly to the host CPU. By utilizing durable ultra-capacitors instead of electrochemical battery chemistry, the unit delivers maintenance-free operation and high thermal tolerance in demanding industrial environments.

Features

• Capacitive Storage Technology: Maintenance-free energy storage using gold-capacitors, eliminating chemical wear and battery aging.
• Integrated PC/104 Interface: Seamless 16-bit ISA data and power connection directly to the embedded controller stack.
• Adjustable Retention Time: Load-dependent backup windows configurable through system software control to match specific CPU shutdown cycles.
• Visual Diagnostic Array: On-board LEDs providing real-time status indication for 24 V DC input, 24 V DC output, and charging status.

Applications

• Persistent Data Saving: Ensuring TwinCAT persistent variable registries are fully written to non-volatile flash memory during power dropouts.
• Orderly Machine Stop: Driving critical low-current control circuits to bring active machinery to a safe physical state before complete CPU power-down.
• Unstable Power Grids: Buffering micro-interruptions and voltage sags in industrial processing plants without system reboots.

Technical Specifications

Empirical Engineering Insights

Alternative Models & Compatibility

The CX1100-0920 is purpose-built to align within Beckhoff CX1010, CX1020, and CX1030 Embedded PC hardware configurations. It is not compatible with newer CX2000 multi-core series architectures, which utilize differing bus layouts and power supply coupling mechanisms. Always verify your existing CPU connection header pins match the PC/104 16-bit physical bus spacing before locking the stack modules together.

Application Pitfalls & Engineering Notes

Capacitive storage units like the CX1100-0920 have a linear voltage discharge curve compared to chemical batteries. With a capacity of 40 As, the actual retention backup time is highly load-dependent. When running a maximum system load of 1.1 A, power is held for approximately 36 seconds. Systems must be configured within the TwinCAT software interface to trigger the write-to-disk persistent cycle immediately upon mains failure detection. Running external, non-CPU bus powered peripherals directly from the same 24 V DC line during an outage can rapidly deplete capacitive reserves before write sequences complete.

Commissioning & Wiring Tips

During initial commissioning, the module requires up to 4.0 A of charging current to energize the internal ultra-capacitor cells from a discharged state. Ensure the system primary power supply is sized with sufficient overhead to handle this transient inrush alongside standard operational load profiles. Check that the on-board LED diagnostics show a steady "Charge" light indicating complete capacitive cell charge before activating persistent file writes in the control logic.

Installation Guidelines