With TwinCAT Runtime for Linux^®, Beckhoff provides the implementation of a virtual PLC – flexible, cost-optimized and resource-efficient.

TwinCAT Virtual Serial COM allows the EL60xx EtherCAT Terminals or EP60xx EtherCAT Box modules to be integrated into Windows 7/10 or Windows CE as normal serial interfaces. The computer on which a serial interface is to be generated for it is defined individually for each EL60xx/EP60xx. Access to the device connected to the terminal takes place via Windows API for serial interfaces.

The C5xxx Industrial PCs series is designed for 19-inch slide-in installation. They are equipped with maximum performance class components and are ideally suited for machine construction and plant engineering applications, for example with the TwinCAT automation software.

With a mounting space of just 82 x 82 x 40 mm, the C6015 Industrial PC represents Beckhoff's most compact entry-level Industrial PC and price savings of 25% or more (depending on the configuration) place it well below the previously least expensive x86 PCs. Due to its extremely compact size, the versatile and flexible mounting options and the impressive computing power of the Intel Atom^® processors, it fits into virtually any control cabinet and machine concept. Apart from use for a wide range of automation tasks, the C6015 is mainly suitable for use as an IoT gateway, or as an edge device. The basis for this is the full integration and compatibility of TwinCAT and EtherCAT.

With the CPX Control Panel series, the proven multi-touch technology of Beckhoff Control Panels is available in particularly robust versions, complying with the requirements for use in hazardous areas classified zone 2/22. The high level of functionality and excellent build quality ensure the reliability of CPX Control Panels even under harsh environmental conditions.

The EK1000 EtherCAT Coupler supports EtherCAT communication via switched Ethernet networks, such as TSN networks (Time-Sensitive Networking), and allows for connecting various EtherCAT Terminals from the wide range of I/Os with standard network technology. The EtherCAT Open Mode protocol enables communication via a layer 2 or a UDP connection. Via UDP, EtherCAT data can also be addressed across routers. The EK1000 is TSN-ready and can be made TSN-capable by a firmware update when the TSN technology is available. Proven EtherCAT features, such as distributed clocks and XFC, can also be used within a TSN network. In addition, it allows for connecting EtherCAT-capable drives that do not have a TSN-capable interface. Thus, the EK1000 effectively links EtherCAT and TSN networks, combining their benefits: EtherCAT provides a real-time capable single-device level and is therefore ideally suited to combine the numerous small data packets that come from the digital and analog inputs and are typical of industrial environments into a complete process image. TSN, on the other hand, defines a physical layer, which only relates to the switch layer in switched Ethernet networks. As a real-time extension of the general Ethernet technology, it controls the procedures and priorities for the transport of Ethernet telegrams through a TSN-capable, switched network. The EtherCAT Coupler has two RJ45 ports. One of these 100 Mbit/s ports connects the EK1000 to the Ethernet or TSN network. The second port enables EtherCAT network extensions, e.g., via the EK1100 EtherCAT Coupler. The EK1000 extends the TwinCAT automation software with a TSN-capable version of EtherCAT communication. In this way, TSN networks can also be managed seamlessly, and EtherCAT devices located in different terminal strands can be addressed via the TSN network.

Linux^® distribution from Beckhoff lays foundation for new type of runtime