Digital guide
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B&R ECFP128-0
Product Introduction:
The B&R ECFP128-0 is a fanless, compact CPU module from the B&R Automation PC 910 series, specifically designed for embedded control applications requiring floating-point arithmetic performance. The “FP” in the model designation indicates the Floating-Point Unit (FPU), and “128” indicates 128 MB DDR RAM. This controller runs B&R Automation Runtime and supports IEC 61131-3 programming alongside real-time Linux (optional). It is engineered for vibration-prone, space-constrained, and maintenance-free installations.
Detailed content
Technical Specifications:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Celeron M (ULV), 1.0 GHz (typical), with FPU |
| RAM | 128 MB DDR SDRAM (onboard, non-expandable) |
| Flash Storage | 256 MB CompactFlash (CF card, removable) |
| Operating System | B&R Automation Runtime (real-time) + Windows XP Embedded / Linux (optional) |
| Programming Languages | IEC 61131-3 (ST, LD, FBD, SFC, IL, CFC), ANSI C, C++ |
| Ethernet Ports | 2× 10/100 Mbps RJ45 |
| Serial Ports | 2× RS-232/RS-485 (configurable) |
| USB Ports | 2× USB 2.0 |
| Digital I/O | 8× DI (24V DC), 8× DO (24V DC, 0.5A) |
| X20 Bus Interface | 1× X20 system bus (up to 63 modules) |
| Supply Voltage | 24V DC (nominal), 18V to 30V DC operating range |
| Power Consumption | ≤ 15W (typical), ≤ 25W (max) |
| Operation Temperature | -25°C to +70°C |
| Protection Class | IP65 (front panel), IP20 (connectors) |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 140 mm × 90 mm × 50 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 0.7 kg |
| Conformity | CE, UL, CSA, ATEX Zone 2, Class I Div 2 |
| Vibration Rating | 5g (5 Hz to 500 Hz) per IEC 60068-2-6 |
| Shock Rating | 30g (11 ms) per IEC 60068-2-27 |
Functional Features:
- Floating-Point Unit (FPU) on the Intel Celeron M processor enables high-speed mathematical computations for complex control algorithms (PID with floating-point, kinematic calculations, filtering)
- Fanless design with aluminum heatsink housing — zero maintenance, silent operation, no dust ingress
- Dual Ethernet ports for separate control network and visualization/HMI network
- Built-in 8DI/8DO for local I/O without additional modules
- X20 bus interface for expanding to 63 additional I/O modules
- CompactFlash card for program and data storage — easily swappable for backup/recovery
- Web Visualization built into the runtime for remote monitoring via any browser
Structural Characteristics:
- Aluminum die-cast housing with anodized finish — serves as both enclosure and heatsink
- DIN rail TS35 mounting or panel mounting (4× M4 threaded holes)
- Screw terminals for all I/O connections
- IP65-rated front panel — fully sealed against dust and water jets
- Connector covers for unused ports to maintain IP rating
Working Principle:
The ECFP128-0 runs the B&R Automation Runtime as a real-time operating system. The IEC 61131-3 program executes in a deterministic scan cycle (configurable from 1 ms to 100 ms). The FPU accelerates floating-point calculations by up to 10× compared to integer-only processors. I/O data from the local 8DI/8DO and connected X20 modules is exchanged via the X20 bus and internal I/O mapping. Ethernet communication handles HMI data, recipe management, and remote diagnostics. The dual Ethernet ports allow network separation: one for real-time control (X20/POWERLINK) and one for IT/HMI traffic.
Advantages & Highlights:
- Fanless + IP65 — ideal for food & beverage, outdoor, and dusty environments
- Floating-point processor handles complex math natively — no software emulation overhead
- Compact form factor (140×90×50 mm) fits in tight cabinet spaces
- Built-in I/O (8DI/8DO) reduces need for additional modules in simple applications
- Vibration/shock rated — survives harsh mechanical environments
- Remote web visualization — no separate HMI panel required for basic monitoring
Applicable Industries:
- Food and beverage processing
- Outdoor machinery (agricultural, construction)
- Textile machinery
- Printing and packaging
- Material handling (conveyors, sorters)
- Water and wastewater treatment
Installation Requirements:
- Mount on DIN rail TS35 or panel with 4× M4 screws
- Ensure 24V DC supply is stable (18V to 30V DC) with ripple ≤ 5%
- Connect X20 bus to I/O modules — maximum 63 modules per bus
- For Ethernet: use shielded CAT5e cable; separate control and HMI networks
- Maintain minimum 50 mm clearance above the unit for passive heat dissipation
Usage Precautions:
- Do not block the heatsink fins — even fanless designs require airflow for heat dissipation
- Do not insert/remove CompactFlash card while powered — use the safe-remove function in B&R Automation Studio
- Do not exceed 30V DC on the power input — overvoltage destroys the internal regulator
- Back up the CompactFlash card before any firmware update — update failure corrupts the card
- Use shielded cables for all communication in electrically noisy environments
