Beckhoff touts the reliability and long-term availability of the CP6608, whose embedded motherboard was designed and manufactured in Germany. It features an Intel IXP420 processor clocked at 266 MHz, plus 128 MB of RAM and 32 MB of flash memory, according to the company.
Other models in Beckhoff's "Economy" series of IXP420-based panel computers offer displays up to 19 inches in size, optional alphanumeric keys, and CompactFlash or mini PCI slots. The diminutive CP6608 has no room for the slots, but does deliver on the range's other key features. For example, in addition to the built-in touchscreen display and onboard graphics adapter, it has two 10/100 Ethernet ports, two USB 2.0 ports, and an RS-232 serial port.
Beckhoff's CP6608 mounts almost flush with a wall
(Click to enlarge)According to Beckhoff, the CP6608 is easy to install in a control cabinet or wall via pull-out clamping levers, protruding just 4 mm above the surface (see above). The rugged aluminum case is said to meet the IP 65 standard for environmental protection, meaning that it is sealed against dust and can also resist water being sprayed on it for at least three minutes.
The unit's I/O ports and its power input are all accessible in a row, protected from falling dust or damage by a protruding lip (see below), the company says. The design also allows the CP6608's lithium backup battery to be changed from an external source.
Beckhoff's CP6608 protects its ports under a protruding lip
(Click to enlarge)Key features and specifications cited by Beckhoff include:
- Processor -- Intel IXP420 clocked at 266 MHz
- Memory -- 128 MB DRAM; 32 MB flash
- Display -- 5.7-inch QVGA (320 x 240 pixel) display, with ELO AccuTouch touchscreen
- I/O ports:
- 2 x 10/100 Ethernet
- 2 x USB 2.0
- 1 x RS-232 serial
- Power -- 24 VDC input
According to Beckhoff, the CP6608 can be operated as a standalone computer, or can be employed as a thin client device running Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). Naturally, the company recommends its own TwinCAT automation software, for machine construction and system engineering applications.
The CP6608 appears to be available now, though specific pricing and availability details were not provided.
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