CX5130-N031-0004 BECKHOFF Embedded PC Intel Atom RS422 Interface

Product Overview

The CX5130-N031-0004 (CX5130N0310004) is a high-performance Embedded PC designed to bridge the gap between compact controller-level performance and sophisticated industrial computing. Powered by a multi-core Intel Atom processor, this DIN rail-mountable controller is optimized for decentralized control tasks in complex automation environments such as pharmaceutical manufacturing, smart energy grids, and advanced robotics. This specific configuration features a factory-integrated RS422 interface, enabling reliable long-distance serial communication with high noise immunity. By consolidating PLC, Motion Control, and HMI functions into a single robust unit, the CX5130-N031-0004 eliminates the need for separate communication converters and reduces the overall control cabinet footprint, ensuring maximum system efficiency and long-term hardware availability.

Technical Configuration

The hardware foundation of the CX5130-N031-0004 is built for demanding industrial duty cycles. It features an integrated 9-pin D-sub socket configured as an RS422 full-duplex end point, facilitating simultaneous bidirectional data exchange. The interface is equipped with internal termination to prevent signal reflections over long cable runs, a critical feature for maintaining data integrity in electrically noisy plant environments. The Intel Atom CPU architecture provides sufficient computational overhead for complex TwinCAT 3 PLC and NC tasks while maintaining a fanless, low-power design. This configuration is engineered for reliability, utilizing high-quality components that support a wide range of standard industrial communication protocols alongside its native EtherCAT capability.

Technical Specifications

Technical FAQs

Can the RS422 interface on this model be reconfigured for RS485?

This specific hardware configuration (-N031) is factory-set as an RS422 full-duplex interface. While the physical connector is a D-sub 9-pin, the internal electrical pinning and termination are optimized for 4-wire RS422 communication. For RS485 (2-wire) applications, a different option module or an external converter is typically required.

How does the integrated termination benefit the RS422 communication?

The integrated termination resistors match the characteristic impedance of the communication line, which significantly reduces signal "ringing" and reflections. This is vital for high-baud rate transmissions or when the connected serial device is located at the maximum distance allowed by the RS422 standard (up to 1200 meters).

Is the CX5130-N031-0004 suitable for high-vibration environments?

Yes. As part of the CX5100 series, this Embedded PC is designed without moving parts (no rotating fans or hard drives when using CFast cards), making it exceptionally resistant to vibration and shock. It conforms to standard industrial EN 60068-2-6 and EN 60068-2-27 specifications.

Engineering & Installation Guide

• Serial Cable Wiring: When wiring the RS422 interface, always use high-quality shielded twisted-pair (STP) cabling. Connect the shield to the D-sub housing to ensure a continuous 360-degree ground path, which protects the serial data from electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by nearby variable frequency drives (VFDs).

• Thermal Clearance: Although the CX5130 is fanless, it relies on passive convection for cooling. Maintain a minimum clearance of 30 mm above and below the unit when mounted on the DIN rail. If the ambient temperature inside the cabinet exceeds 45 Celsius, consider active cabinet ventilation to ensure the processor remains within its optimal thermal operating window.

• RS422 Termination Logic: Since this unit is configured with termination "ON," it should be placed at one of the physical ends of the RS422 network. Ensure that the remote device at the opposite end of the cable also has termination enabled to provide a balanced and stable communication link.