B&R X20CS1012 PLC Module X20 CS 1012

The B&R X20CS1012 (also designated X20 CS 1012) is a compact controller from the X20 system family, combining a powerful CPU and communication interfaces in a single slot. It is designed for high-performance machine control and motion tasks. The module features an Intel Atom E3815 processor (1.46 GHz) with 256 MB DDR3L RAM and 512 MB flash memory for the runtime and application. The controller operates on B&R Automation Runtime and is programmed via Automation Studio.

Processor and Memory

The single-core Atom E3815 includes 512 KB L2 cache. Program memory: 256 MB (available for user code). Data memory: 128 MB retentive (FRAM). The flash drive (512 MB) stores the operating system, boot project, and configuration files. External storage: one USB 2.0 host port (Type A) and one SD card slot (SDHC). The real-time clock (RTC) is battery-backed (lithium coin cell, life 10 years).

Communication Interfaces

• 2 x Ethernet ports (10/100/1000) supporting POWERLINK (V2) for real-time communication and standard TCP/IP.

• 1 x X2X Link master port (RJ45) for connecting up to 253 X20 or X67 I/O modules, cycle time 1 ms.

• 1 x RS-232 (9-pin D-sub) for serial devices.

• 1 x CAN interface (ISO 11898) with 5 kV isolation.

Power Supply and Environmental

The X20CS1012 requires an external 24V DC (20.4–28.8V). Power consumption: 8 W typical (without I/O load). The module is fanless and passively cooled. Operating temperature: -25°C to +60°C (derate above 50°C). Storage: -40°C to +85°C. Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing. Protection class: IP20. Dimensions: 100 mm height x 55 mm width x 70 mm depth. Weight: 200 g. Mounting: DIN rail with integrated clip.

I/O Expansion via X2X Link

The built-in X2X Link master allows connection of any X20 digital, analog, and motion modules. Maximum distance between stations: 100 m (copper) or 2 km (fiber optic). The bus is deterministic with cycle times as low as 400 µs. The controller can also act as a slave on a higher-level POWERLINK network.

Real-Time Capabilities

The X20CS1012 supports isochronous real-time communication with jitter < 1 µs. Up to 8 axes of motion (CNC or robotics) can be controlled directly with cycle times of 1 ms. The controller includes a hardware watchdog timer (configurable 10–1000 ms).

Programming and Software

Automation Studio (version 4.8 or later) provides IEC 61131-3 languages (LAD, ST, FBD, SFC, IL), plus C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink integration. The controller supports mapp technology (pre-engineered software blocks for printing, packaging, and robotics). Built-in OPC UA server (DA and HA) is included for IIoT connectivity.

Diagnostics and LEDs

Front panel LEDs: PWR (green), RUN (green), ERR (red), LINK (yellow for Ethernet), and X2X (green/red). A 2-digit 7-segment display shows boot status and error codes. The controller logs system events to a circular buffer (1000 entries). Remote diagnostics via web server or Automation Studio.

Certifications and Standards

CE, UL 61010-1, cUL, ATEX Zone 2, DNV GL (marine), and RoHS. The X20CS1012 complies with SIL 2 (IEC 61508) when used with TwinSAFE safety modules. IP rating: IP20. Order code: X20CS1012. The unit is supplied with a bus connector (X20BR9300) for stacking I/O modules.

Typical Applications

Used in high-speed packaging lines, printing presses, textile machinery, and laboratory automation. Its compact form factor fits into small control cabinets, while the X2X link enables distributed I/O over long distances.