Beckhoff CX8110 Embedded PC: A Complete Guide from Hardware Architecture to Distributed Clock and Persistent Data Protection

In the field of industrial automation, embedded controllers need to have compact size, high reliability, and flexible fieldbus capabilities. Beckhoff's CX8110 embedded PC is based on Arm ®  Cortex ®- The A9 processor (800 MHz) integrates EtherCAT slave interface, 1-second UPS persistent data storage, and Windows Embedded Compact 7 operating system, making it a cost-effective controller designed specifically for distributed control and slave applications. Its width is only 71 mm, which can be directly installed on a DIN rail and connected to Beckhoff Bus Terminals (K-bus) or EtherCAT Terminals (E-bus) through the power terminal on the right side. CX8110 can function as an EtherCAT slave and continue to run control programs locally in the event of communication interruption with higher-level master stations. This article will comprehensively analyze the system composition, installation and cooling, power and grounding, network and bus interfaces, distributed clock configuration, 1-second UPS persistent variable mechanism, DIP switch explicit device identification, diagnosis, and maintenance points of CX8110 from the perspective of engineering applications, providing a detailed technical reference for on-site engineers.

Product Overview and Core Features

The CX8110 belongs to the Beckhoff CX8100 series, and its basic configuration includes:

Processor: Arm Cortex-A9 single core, 800 MHz

Memory: 512 MB DDR3 RAM (non expandable)

Storage: 512 MB microSD card (SLC industrial grade, upgradable to 16 GB)

Interface: 1 x Ethernet port (X001, 10/100 Mbit/s, used for programming and configuration), 2 x EtherCAT slave interfaces (X101 input, X102 output)

Bus interface: automatically recognizes K-bus (bus terminal) or E-bus (EtherCAT terminal)

1-second UPS: Built in UltraCap capacitor, can save up to 1 MB of persistent data to a microSD card after power failure

Real time clock: battery backup (CR2032)

Working temperature: -25 ° C~+60 ° C (horizontal installation), reduced to 50 ° C when vertical or non ideal direction

Typical application scenarios for CX8110 include:

As an EtherCAT slave, execute local PLC programs (IEC 61131-3)

Independently operate critical control logic in case of higher-level main station failure

Expand fieldbus through EtherCAT terminals (such as PROFIBUS, CANopen, PROFINET)

Cooperate with distributed clock (DC) to achieve high-precision synchronization

Mechanical installation and heat dissipation requirements

2.1 Size and Weight

Width x Height x Depth: 71 mm x 100 mm x 73 mm

Weight: Approximately 230 grams

2.2 Installation direction and ventilation gap

The top and bottom of the CX8110 casing are equipped with ventilation holes. To ensure stable operation of the CPU at an ambient temperature of 60 ° C, it must be installed horizontally (with the interface facing the side and the ventilation holes vertically up and down). At this time, at least 30mm of free space should be reserved above and below the device.

Permitted vertical installation: If the control cabinet space is limited, the CX8110 can be installed vertically (with the interface facing up or down), but the upper limit of the ambient temperature should be reduced to 50 ° C. Regardless of the direction, the connected bus terminals must also support this installation direction.

Prohibited installation method: Do not place the equipment on the side (with ventilation holes blocked), otherwise it may cause overheating.

2.3 DIN rail installation steps

Push the CX8110 onto the TS35/7.5 or TS35/15 rail (compliant with DIN EN 60715) from the front.

After hearing the "click" sound, use a screwdriver to push down the left locking buckle to fully engage with the guide rail.

Check if the equipment is secure.

When disassembling, first disconnect the power supply, then use a screwdriver to lift the left locking buckle and remove the device from the guide rail.

Power connection and grounding

3.1 Power Supply Requirements

CX8110 is connected to 24 V DC through the spring terminal on the right power terminal. The terminal block provides two sets of power supplies:

Us (upper row 24V/0V): Provides power for CPU module and bus communication (K-bus or E-bus).

Up (bottom row+/-/±): Provides power to the bus terminals and connected sensors/actuators through power contacts.

Power requirements:

Rated voltage: 24 V DC (allowable range -15%/+20%, approximately 20.4 V~28.8 V)

Minimum power supply capacity: 4 A (ensuring full load operation)

Wire cross-section: 0.5~2.5 mm ² (AWG 20~14), wire stripping length 8~9 mm

Terminal power supply current on the bus: maximum 2 A (internal current limit)

UL compliance requirements (equipment has obtained UL certification):

It must be powered by a 24 V power supply that complies with NEC Class 2, or an isolated power supply protected by a maximum 4 A fuse (UL 248).

Class 2 power supplies shall not be connected in series or parallel with other Class 2 power supplies.

3.2 Grounding and PELV specifications

The wiring inside the control cabinet must comply with EN 60204-1:2006 (PELV):