Product Core Brief
- Model: CX1020-0000
- Brand: Beckhoff Automation
- Series: Embedded PC
- Core Function: Executes TwinCAT 2 PLC and NC I motion control logic as a fanless DIN-rail controller.
- Product Type: Embedded Automation Controller
- Key Specs: 1 GHz Celeron M ULV | 256 MB DDR RAM | 128 MB CF Card
- Condition: New Surplus / Original OEM
Key Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Beckhoff Automation
- Part Number:
- Processor: Intel® Celeron® M ULV, 1 GHz (1 Core)
- Main Memory: 256 MB DDR RAM (Expandable to 1 GB)
- Flash Memory: 128 MB CompactFlash® Card
- Interfaces: 2 x RJ45 10/100 Mbit/s (Internal Switch)
- System Bus: 16-bit ISA (PC/104)
- Control Software: TwinCAT 2 PLC, NC PTP, NC I Runtime
- Operating System: Windows Embedded CE 6 / Windows Embedded Standard 2009
- Max Power Consumption: 11 W (CPU), 10 W (E-bus/K-bus)
- Cooling: Passive (Fanless)
- Operating Temp: 0°C to 50°C
Product Introduction (No Fluff)
This serves as a foundational embedded PC module for Beckhoff automation systems, executing TwinCAT 2 PLC logic and NC I interpolating axis movements. It operates entirely without rotating components, relying on passive cooling for reliable DIN-rail integration.
Sourcing this exact OEM replacement part prevents extended machine downtime when legacy industrial PCs fail or suffer from flash memory corruption. Keeping verified new surplus stock on hand allows integrators to bypass extended lead times and restore controller functionality immediately.
QA & Testing SOP (Dynamic & Transparent)
Embedded controllers demand rigorous validation before deploymvery undergoes a strict inbound anti-counterfeit audit, verifying the PCB silkscreen, ISA connector integrity, and CompactFlash slot condition against Beckhoff baselines. Next, we mount the module on a dedicated CX1100 power supply test bench to validate the cold-boot sequence and verify the internal battery-backed clock. We then run a TwinCAT 2 runtime initialization test to ensure the PLC and NC I logic loads without fault logging. Finally, a 4-hour continuous burn-in under nominal load catches marginal RAM or thermal throttling issues. All units ship in dual-layer ESD shielding with a printed QA test report.
Installation Pitfalls & Guide (Engineer to Engineer)
❗ CompactFlash Boot Integrity: This controller boots exclusively from the CompactFlash card. If your previous unit died due to write-cycle exhaustion or power loss during a write operation, the CF card is likely corrupted. Always verify the CF card’s health before swapping it in new , or use a verified backup image.
❗ PC/104 Backplane Alignment: The 16-bit ISA (PC/104) connectors on both sides of this module are highly susceptible to bent pins from years of thermal expansion. Never force the module onto the CX1100 power supply or adjacent fieldbus modules. Inspect the receptacles with a bright LED light before mating.
❗ Passive Cooling Clearance: This is a fanless design relying entirely on passive convection. If you are mounting it in a sealed NEMA enclosure, ensure there is adequate vertical airflow clearance. A 5°C ambient temperature rise inside a poorly ventilated panel can push this module past its 50°C operating limit.
Replacement Protocol:
- Pre-Install: Lock out the 24 VDC system power. Verify 0 VDC at the CX1100 power supply terminals. Ground yourself properly.
- Removal: Release the PC/104 standoffs. Extract the failed module straight out. Inspect the ISA pins for debris or carbon tracking.
- Install: the with the PC/104 guides. Seat it evenly and secure the retaining hardware. Insert the CompactFlash card fully.
- Power-on Test: Restore 24 VDC power. Monitor the diagnostic LEDs (Power, TC Status). Verify TwinCAT 2 runtime initialization via Ethernet before returning the machine to auto mode.
Technical FAQ
Yes, provided your existing system uses the form factor and CX1100 power supply. However, Beckhoff offers multiple memory and OS configurations. Always verify the full part number and check the Windows Embedded OS version (CE 6 vs. Standard 2009) to ensure compatibility with your existing TwinCAT 2 project.
Why is this listed as “New Surplus” instead of factory-new?
This is genuine Beckhoff stock that was never deployed on a factory floor. It has been stored in climate-controlled inventory rather than running in a hot, vibrating control panel. You receive the exact same MTBF and lifespan as a factory-fresh unit, typically at a significantly lower cost and without the 12-week lead time.
Can I hot-swap this controller while the backplane is powered?
Absolutely not. The lacks hot-swap isolation on the PC/104 bus and E-bus/K-bus power rails. Removing or inserting this module under power will cause a bus fault, potentially destroying adjacent I/O modules and the CX1100 power supply. Always follow proper lockout/tagout procedures.
What is the warranty coverage on this part?
We provide a standard 12-month functional warranty. If the module fails under normal operating conditions within that window, we replace it. Our QA testing proves the controller booted and ran TwinCAT 2 perfectly before it left our bench, so we stand behind our inventory.








