Beckhoff Automation's Smart Controller

Dec. 13, 2004
Smart controller has built-in display
Smart Controller 
TFT Control Panelhas an Intel Pentium-compatible 266 MHz CPU that can run Windows CE and XP Embedded operating systems, so it can be used to run SCADA or visualization software provided by the end user. It has an anodized metal housing cut from solid aluminum and is available in protection class IP 65 (front)/IP 20 (rear) or completely IP 65. The CPU used in the Beckhoff CX1000 controller series opens up the option of a new design that removes the separation between Industrial PC and display unit: The CPU has moved into the Control Panel housing without changing its exterior dimensions, converting the Panel to a complete control computer including: 1.  Intel Pentium-compatible CPU, 266 MHz clock frequency2.  Passive cooling256 MB RAM main memory3.  8 kB NOVRAM (non-volatile memory) 4.  IDE interface for Compact Flash (can be changed from outside5.  Teal-time clock with date (RTC) and backup battery6.  Two Ethernet interfaces 10/100 Mbps7.  Two USB master interfaces8.  RS232 interface (optional)The Ethernet panel family is available with the following display sizes: 6.5, 10, 12 and 15 in. Like the Control Panel variants with CP-Link or DVI/USB interface, the device is flexibly equipped with normal and PLC keys, touchscreen and touchpad. The Ethernet panel works without fan and without rotating storage media, since a Compact Flash card is used as a hard disk substitute. The large main memory of 256 MB is particularly useful if the Ethernet panel is used with Windows XP Embedded.Software determines application options: from controller to local operating stationBecause Windows CE.NET 4.2 or Windows XP Embedded are used as operating system, the system can be used to run either SCADA software or visualisation software developed by the customer.If the Ethernet panel is to be used for solving an automation task, it makes sense to use TwinCAT automation software, either as a PLC or motion control application for axis control. I/O is integrated via one of the Ethernet connections via the Beckhoff real-time Ethernet protocol, or, in future, via the Ethernet-based EtherCAT protocol, which provides even higher data throughput at the field level.Another use for Ethernet Control Panels is as SCADA stations that are connected via Ethernet with one or several host computers.