Product Overview

The B&R X20BC00G3 is a high performance EtherCAT bus controller within the modular X20 I/O system architecture, designed to seamlessly connect X2X Link I/O modules to any EtherCAT master system. As an EtherCAT slave device, it functions as a gateway, enabling distributed I/O nodes to communicate deterministically with central controllers over real time industrial Ethernet networks. Built on B&R’s robust X20 platform, the X20BC00G3 inherits the system’s modular design philosophy, allowing engineers to combine IP20, IP67, and XV protection rated modules on a single bus segment at distances up to 100 meters, facilitating decentralized control cabinet architectures and direct machine mounting of I/O.

The module fully supports the modular slice concept via CoE (CANopen over EtherCAT), providing standardized object dictionary access for configuration and diagnostics. Its ability to auto configure I/O modules and perform firmware updates through the fieldbus using FoE (File access over EtherCAT) reduces setup time and simplifies maintenance in distributed installations.

Technical Specifications

Key Features

• Couples X2X Link I/O modules to EtherCAT networks, allowing operation with any EtherCAT master controller from any manufacturer.

• Supports hardware topology including line, tree, star (limited), and combinations, providing flexibility for machine layouts of any scale.

• Auto configuration of I/O modules reduces engineering time and eliminates manual addressing errors.

• Firmware update via fieldbus (FoE) enables remote maintenance and simplified device management across distributed systems.

• Configurable I/O cycle from 0.2 ms to 4 ms, allowing optimization of network bandwidth versus control response time for different applications.

• Supports full CoE (CANopen over EtherCAT) for standardized parameter access and device profile implementation.

• Transition between IP20 and IP67 protection outside the control cabinet by arranging X20, X67, or XV modules sequentially, reducing enclosure costs.

• Diagnostic LEDs for module status and bus function provide rapid fault identification at the module level.

Applications

The X20BC00G3 bus controller is deployed in high performance industrial control systems requiring deterministic, low latency communication between a central controller and distributed I/O. Typical applications include multi axis motion control systems where EtherCAT serves as the motion bus for synchronized drives, high speed packaging machinery requiring rapid I/O response, and material handling systems spanning long distances across production floors.

Its compatibility with any EtherCAT master makes it suitable for hybrid automation architectures where different brands of controllers coexist. In process automation, the module facilitates remote I/O placement directly on skids and equipment, reducing field wiring runs and improving signal integrity. The X20BC00G3 is also widely used in retrofitting legacy systems with modern EtherCAT based control, leveraging the rich ecosystem of X20 I/O modules for analog, digital, temperature, and specialty signal processing.