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B&R BRRT360-0
Product Introduction:
The B&R BRRT360-0 is a high-performance real-time Ethernet gateway module for the B&R X20 distributed I/O system. It bridges the X20 bus with industrial Ethernet networks, enabling the X20 I/O system to participate in real-time Ethernet protocols including EtherCAT, PROFINET IRT/RT, EtherNet/IP, POWERLINK, and SERCOS III. This module transforms a standard X20 system into a fully networked, real-time capable automation node.
Detailed content
Technical Specifications:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Ethernet Ports | 2× RJ45 (10/100 Mbps) |
| Supported Protocols | EtherCAT, PROFINET IRT, PROFINET RT, EtherNet/IP, POWERLINK, SERCOS III, Modbus TCP |
| Real-Time Cycle Time | ≤ 1 ms (EtherCAT), ≤ 4 ms (PROFINET IRT) |
| Jitter | < 1 µs (EtherCAT) |
| X20 Bus Interface | X20 system bus (up to 63 modules) |
| Supply Voltage | 24V DC (via X20 bus) |
| Operation Temperature | -25°C to +70°C |
| Protection Class | IP20 (front), IP65 (with cover) |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 22.5 mm × 90 mm × 120 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 200 g |
| Conformity | CE, UL, CSA, ATEX Zone 2 |
| LED Indicators | Power, Run, Error, Ethernet Link/Activity |
Functional Features:
- Dual Ethernet ports for line/ring topology redundancy (MRP support)
- Full real-time Ethernet protocol stack onboard — no external controller required for I/O data exchange
- Supports up to 63 X20 modules connected via the local bus
- Hot-standby redundancy via MRP (Media Redundancy Protocol) for zero-downtime network failover
- Web-based configuration via integrated HTTP server
- Diagnostic buffer for network fault analysis
- GSDML/ESI/EDS files available for seamless integration into third-party engineering tools (TIA Portal, Studio 5000, etc.)
Structural Characteristics:
- Snap-in DIN rail TS35 mounting
- Spring-loaded push-in terminals for 0.14 mm² to 2.5 mm² wire
- Housing: glass-fiber reinforced polyamide (PA66-GF30)
- Two RJ45 Ethernet ports on the front panel with integrated LED status indicators
- Rear X20 bus connector
Working Principle:
The BRRT360-0 contains a dedicated Ethernet controller ASIC with a real-time protocol stack. I/O data from connected X20 modules is collected via the X20 bus, packed into real-time Ethernet frames (e.g., EtherCAT telegram, PROFINET IRT frame), and transmitted over the Ethernet network to the master controller. Incoming commands from the Ethernet master are unpacked and distributed to the respective X20 modules. The onboard ASIC handles all real-time scheduling, ensuring deterministic cycle times independent of the host CPU.
Advantages & Highlights:
- Transforms X20 system into a full real-time Ethernet node — no separate Ethernet coupler needed
- Multi-protocol support — one module covers EtherCAT, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, POWERLINK, SERCOS III
- Sub-millisecond jitter on EtherCAT for motion control applications
- MRP redundancy for network failover without I/O interruption
- Web-based configuration eliminates need for B&R-specific tools for basic setup
Applicable Industries:
- High-speed packaging machines
- CNC machines and robotics
- Printing and converting machinery
- Automotive assembly lines
- Semiconductor and electronics manufacturing
Installation Requirements:
- Mount on DIN rail TS35 near the X20 bus coupler
- Use shielded CAT5e or CAT6 Ethernet cable (STP recommended for industrial environments)
- For EtherCAT: connect in daisy-chain topology; terminate last device with 120Ω termination resistor
- For PROFINET IRT: use switch with IRT support (e.g., SCALANCE XC-200)
- Ensure 24V DC bus power is stable (20.4V to 28.8V DC)
Usage Precautions:
- Do not mix EtherCAT and PROFINET on the same port — select one protocol at a time
- Enable MRP only when using ring topology — incorrect MRP configuration causes network storms
- Do not exceed 63 X20 modules on a single BRRT360-0 bus segment
- Update firmware only via B&R Automation Studio — incorrect firmware bricks the module
- Ground the Ethernet shield at one end only to prevent ground loops
