CX1030-0021

The Beckhoff CX1030-0021 is a rugged embedded PC unit in the CX Embedded PC Systems series designed for industrial automation applications requiring dependable real-time control. It is powered by an Intel Pentium M 1.8 GHz processor and provides a single processing core, delivering deterministic performance for PLC and motion-control tasks. The system includes 256 MB DDR RAM as standard, expandable up to 1 GB to accommodate more demanding software environments. An integrated flash memory slot is provisioned with a 128 MB CompactFlash card, and additional storage can be installed via the Type I/II slot with an eject mechanism. Connectivity is achieved through 2 x RJ45 10/100 Mbit/s ports with an internal switch, enabling flexible network topologies.

Technical specifications are comprehensive and optimized for harsh environments. The control software runtime is TwinCAT 2 PLC runtime, and supported operating systems include Windows CE 6 and Windows Embedded Standard 2009. The system bus is a 16-bit ISA (PC/104) design, ensuring compatibility with legacy I/O modules. Real-time clock functionality is maintained by a battery-backed RTC with replaceable battery for uninterrupted timekeeping. Maximum power consumption is specified at 32 W, and the unit implements a replaceable fan module with double ball bearings and speed control for efficient cooling. Diagnostics are facilitated by dedicated LEDs: 1 power, 2 LAN link/activity, 1 TC status, and 1 flash indicator.

Operational performance is assured over a wide temperature range: 0…+50 °C operating temperature and –25…+85 °C storage temperature, making the CX1030-0021 suitable for both factory-floor and remote installations. The IP20 protection rating safeguards internal components against solid ingress in controlled environments. I/O expansion is managed via the power supply module, offering E-bus, K-bus, or K-bus/IP-Link interfaces to integrate a variety of field devices without additional cabling. Power-up and warm-start behavior is streamlined through flash-based boot procedures, reducing system downtime during maintenance. The robust embedded architecture yields consistent performance under continuous operation.

System integration is simplified by the standardized form factor and industrial mounting options, allowing the CX1030-0021 to fit seamlessly within existing control cabinets. The combined capabilities of the Intel Pentium M processor, expandable memory, and integrated network switch make it ideal for distributed control, data acquisition, and HMI tasks. It is targeted at machine builders, process control engineers, and OEMs seeking compact, scalable computing platforms. With its industrial qualification and flexible I/O interfaces, the CX1030-0021 delivers a reliable building block for automation solutions across manufacturing, logistics, and infrastructure sectors.