Model Series

Series: X20 System — Compact CPU

Full Model Designation: X20CP0291

Related Models in the Same Series:

• X20CP0201 — Compact CPU, μP 16, 100 KByte SRAM, 512 KB FlashPROM
• X20CP0292 — Compact CPU, μP 25, 750 KByte SRAM, 3.4 MB FlashPROM
• X20CP1301 — Compact CPU, μP 16, extended features
• X20CP1381 — Compact CPU, Intel x86 200 MHz, 128 MB DDR3 SDRAM, 1 GB eMMC

Technical Specifications

Functional Features

• Integrated RS232 and CAN interfaces on the CPU base eliminate the need for additional communication modules for basic networking.
• 100 Base-T Ethernet provides standard network connectivity for programming, diagnostics, and HMI communication.
• POWERLINK real-time Ethernet enables deterministic cyclic data exchange with drives, I/O modules, and other POWERLINK devices.
• USB 1.1/2.0 ports (2×) allow direct connection of USB devices such as programming adapters, memory sticks, or HMI panels without extra hardware.
• X2X-Link interface enables daisy-chaining of modules and provides power distribution to remote I/O stations up to 100 m away.
• 3 modular expansion slots allow addition of fieldbus modules, communication interfaces, or special function modules.
• 30 integrated digital I/O points and 2 integrated analog inputs reduce the need for external I/O modules in small to medium applications.
• Pt1000 RTD temperature measurement support on one analog input channel.
• Battery-free real-time clock with FRAM backup ensures time retention during power loss without maintenance.
• LED status indicators for CPU function, Ethernet, POWERLINK, RS232, CAN bus, I/O power, and per-channel I/O status.
• Short task cycle time of 2 ms supports high-speed control applications.

Structural Characteristics

• Form Factor: Plug-in module for DIN rail mounting (EN 60715, 35 mm top-hat rail).
• Module Width: Single-slot X20 module (25 mm pitch).
• Connection Base: Compatible with X20BB22 (RS232 only) or X20BB27 (RS232 + CAN) compact CPU bases.
• Terminal Connection: Via 16-pin terminal block X20TB1F for RS232 variant; other terminals available for CAN.
• Cooling: Fanless design — passive heat dissipation through module housing.
• Enclosure Material: High-impact industrial-grade plastic housing with metal shielding for EMC compliance.
• Mounting Orientation: Horizontal or vertical installation permitted.

Working Principle

The X20CP0291 operates as a real-time programmable logic controller executing user programs written in Automation Studio (B&R’s unified engineering environment). The μP 16 processor fetches and executes control logic stored in the 512 KB FlashPROM using the 100 KByte SRAM as working memory. The integrated I/O processor handles all 30 digital I/O and 2 analog input channels in the background, offloading the main CPU. Communication is managed through dedicated hardware controllers: the Ethernet controller handles TCP/IP and POWERLINK traffic, the CAN controller manages CANopen or CAN-based fieldbus protocols, and the RS232 UART handles serial point-to-point communication. The X2X-Link provides both power and a high-speed serial bus for connecting additional X20 I/O modules in a daisy-chain topology. The POWERLINK interface operates as a managed or controlled node, enabling cycle times down to 100 μs in synchronized motion control applications when combined with ACOPOS servo drives.

Advantages and Highlights

• All-in-one compact design — CPU, power supply for I/O, and communication interfaces integrated in a single module.
• No additional costs for basic communication — RS232, Ethernet, USB, and CAN are all standard.
• POWERLINK integration provides real-time deterministic communication without extra modules.
• Cost-effective solution for standard machine automation and small to medium control tasks.
• High scalability — up to 250 X20 I/O modules (3000 channels) can be connected to a single CPU.
• Remote I/O capability via X2X-Link up to 100 m, supporting IP67-rated modules.
• Free programming and configuration via Automation Studio — compatible across all X20 hardware.
• Long-term investment security — B&R’s platform strategy ensures backward compatibility and future-proofing.
• Wide operating temperature range suitable for industrial environments.
• ATEX and SIL certification for use in hazardous areas (Zone 2).

Applicable Industries

• Packaging machinery
• Printing machines
• Plastics processing
• Textile machinery
• Food and beverage
• Machine tools / CNC
• Semiconductor equipment
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Power generation and distribution
• Metallurgy
• Municipal infrastructure
• Transportation systems
• Oil and gas
• Chemical processing
• Cement production
• Robotics and handling systems
• Wood processing
• Automotive manufacturing

Compatible Base Modules

Installation Requirements

• Mounting: DIN rail EN 60715 (35 mm top-hat rail), horizontal or vertical orientation.
• Mounting Altitude: 0 to 2000 m above sea level, unlimited.
• Wiring: Use shielded cables for all high-speed digital I/O; maximum cable length 20 m.
• Power Wiring: 24 VDC supply with reverse polarity protection; fuse rated maximum 10 A, slow-blow.
• Grounding: Ensure proper protective earth (PE) connection for EMC compliance.
• Ambient Conditions: Ensure ventilation clearance around the module; avoid direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Terminal Tightening Torque: Per B&R specification — typically 0.5–0.8 Nm for screw terminals.

Usage Precautions

• Do not exceed the maximum I/O power fuse rating (10 A slow-blow).
• Do not connect unshielded cables to high-speed digital I/O channels — this causes EMC issues and signal integrity degradation.
• Maximum cable length for high-speed digital I/O is 20 m.
• Do not operate outside the specified temperature range (0°C to +55°C horizontal; -25°C to +50°C vertical).
• FRAM data retention is guaranteed >10 years — do not attempt to replace or modify the FRAM chip.
• The real-time clock retains time for ≥300 hours without power — program accordingly for long power outages.
• X2X-Link daisy-chain maximum length is 100 m from CPU to farthest I/O station.
• For ATEX Zone 2 installations, follow all relevant safety instructions in the X20 user manual (ATEX 09, certificate 0083X).
• Firmware updates must be performed via Automation Studio — do not use unauthorized programming tools.