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B&R X20BT9400

Product Series: B&R X20 I/O System (X20BT Series)

Product Introduction: The X20BT9400 is a POWERLINK bus coupling terminal module that connects B&R X20 I/O modules to a POWERLINK real-time Ethernet network. It enables deterministic, cycle-synchronous communication between the X20 distributed I/O and the POWERLINK master controller with sub-microsecond synchronization accuracy.

Detailed content

Technical Specifications:

  • Communication Protocol: POWERLINK (IEEE 1588, IEC 61158)
  • Network Standard: Ethernet 100BASE-TX (IEEE 802.3u)
  • Port Type1 × RJ45 (100 Mbps)
  • Topology: Line / Tree / Star (with switch)
  • Synchronization Accuracy: < 1 μs (IEEE 1588 v2)
  • Cycle Time200 μs to 65.535 ms (configurable)
  • Number of I/O Nodes Supported: Up to 240 nodes per network segment
  • Supply Voltage: 24V DC via X20 bus connector
  • Power ConsumptionApprox. 2.0 W
  • Protection RatingIP20

Functional Features:

  • Full POWERLINK V1/V2 protocol support
  • On-board network diagnostics (link status, error counters)
  • LED indicators: Power (green), Link (green), Error (red)
  • Auto-negotiation support (10/100 Mbps)
  • Integrated ESD protection on Ethernet port (IEC 61000-4-2, ±8 kV contact)
  • Support for mapped and unmapped I/O data

Structural Features:

  • Form Factor45 mm width, X20 standard module
  • MountingDIN rail 35 mm / direct screw
  • Connector: X20 system bus (top) + RJ45 (front)
  • Housing Material: Polycarbonate (PC), UL94 V-0
  • Dimensions (W × H × D): 45 mm × 90 mm × 75 mm (approx.)
  • WeightApprox. 130 g

Operating Conditions:

  • Operating Temperature-25°C to +70°C
  • Storage Temperature-40°C to +85°C
  • Relative Humidity5% to 95% (non-condensing)

Applicable Industries:

  • High-speed packaging machines
  • Printing presses
  • CNC machine tool controls
  • Robotics (multi-axis synchronized motion)
  • Semiconductor manufacturing equipment
  • Wind turbine pitch control

Installation Requirements:

  • Mount on DIN rail adjacent to X20 I/O modules
  • Connect RJ45 to POWERLINK network using shielded CAT5e/CAT6 cable
  • Maximum cable length: 100 m per segment (without repeater)
  • Terminate network ends with 120 Ω resistor (if line topology)
  • Ensure POWERLINK master is configured for this node

Usage Precautions:

  • Use only shielded twisted-pair Ethernet cable
  • Do not exceed 100 m segment length without repeater/switch
  • Do not mix POWERLINK with standard Ethernet traffic on same segment
  • Ground the shield at one end only to avoid ground loops

Advantages & Highlights:

  • Sub-microsecond synchronization for motion control applications
  • Deterministic real-time communication with guaranteed cycle times
  • Seamless integration with B&R X20 I/O ecosystem
  • Up to 240 nodes per segment — excellent scalability

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