BX8000 - Introduction

BX8000 | RS232/RS485 Bus Terminal Controller

The BX8000 Bus Terminal Controller is a stand-alone PLC. One unit consists of the BX8000 Bus Terminal Controller with up to 64 Bus Terminals and a bus end terminal. With the terminal bus extension system, the connection of up to 255 Bus Terminals is possible.

The controller is programmed via the COM1 interface. In addition, the BX8000 has a second COM port, optionally RS232 or RS485. This can be used for connecting serial devices, such as displays. In terms of their equipment and performance, the BX series Bus Terminal Controllers are positioned between the BC series Bus Terminal Controllers and the CX series Embedded PCs. The main features distinguishing BC and BX are the larger memory and the expanded interfaces of the BX. Additionally, two serial interfaces are integrated for programming and for the connection of further serial devices. The device itself comprises an illuminated LC display with two lines of 16 characters each, a joystick switch and a real-time clock. Further peripheral devices, e. g. displays, can be connected via the integrated Beckhoff Smart System Bus (SSB).

The real-time clock enables decentralized applications, for which the day of the week or the time play an important role. The areas of application for this series are similar to that for the BC series, but due to the larger memory the BX can process significantly more complex and larger programs and can manage more data locally.

Controller for stand-alone applications

Like for all other Beckhoff controllers, the TwinCAT automation software is the basis for parameterization and programming. The BX devices are programmed according to the powerful IEC 61131-3 standard in the programming languages IL, FBD, LD, SFC or ST. Users therefore have the familiar TwinCAT tools available, e.g. the PLC programming interface, the System Manager and TwinCAT Scope. Data are exchanged via the serial port (COM1).

The configuration is also carried out using TwinCAT. The fieldbus interface, the SSB bus and the real-time clock can be configured and parameterized via the System Manager. The System Manager can read all connected devices and Bus Terminals. After the parameterization, the configuration is saved on the BX via the serial interface and can be accessed again later.