Hilscher COMX 51CA - RE Multi-Protocol Real-Time Ethernet Embedded Communication Module (Official Model Designation: COMX 51CA - RE)
The Hilscher COMX 51CA - RE is a compact, industrial-grade embedded communication module engineered for integration into edge devices, industrial controllers, and IoT gateways, with a core focus on multi-protocol Real-Time Ethernet (RTE) connectivity. It empowers embedded systems to establish high-speed, deterministic data communication with RTE-enabled equipment—such as PLCs, motion drives, and smart sensors—in factory automation, robotics, and precision manufacturing scenarios. As a flagship member of Hilscher’s COMX series, renowned for its ultra-small form factor, low power consumption, and modular protocol support, it features a hardware-accelerated RTE processing core. This design streamlines integration into resource-constrained embedded platforms, ensures compatibility with diverse RTE network architectures, and meets the strict real-time demands of industrial IoT (IIoT) applications.
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The Hilscher COMX 51CA - RE is a compact, industrial-grade embedded communication module engineered for integration into edge devices, industrial controllers, and IoT gateways, with a core focus on multi-protocol Real-Time Ethernet (RTE) connectivity. It empowers embedded systems to establish high-speed, deterministic data communication with RTE-enabled equipment—such as PLCs, motion drives, and smart sensors—in factory automation, robotics, and precision manufacturing scenarios. As a flagship member of Hilscher’s COMX series, renowned for its ultra-small form factor, low power consumption, and modular protocol support, it features a hardware-accelerated RTE processing core. This design streamlines integration into resource-constrained embedded platforms, ensures compatibility with diverse RTE network architectures, and meets the strict real-time demands of industrial IoT (IIoT) applications.
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1. Protocol Support (Per Hilscher Official Design)
Delivers comprehensive support for leading industrial Real-Time Ethernet protocols via modular firmware, adhering to global industry standards:
PROFINET IRT/RT: Compliant with IEC 61158-3-10 and EN 50170, enabling ultra-fast cycle times as low as 125 µs (IRT mode) for high-precision motion control applications and 1 ms (RT mode) for general factory automation.
EtherCAT: Certified by the EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG), supporting distributed clock synchronization with accuracy ≤ 100 ns and high-throughput process data transfer, ideal for multi-axis robotics.
Ethernet/IP: ODVA (Open DeviceNet Vendor Association) compliant, with built-in support for CIP Sync (IEEE 1588 PTP) for time synchronization and CIP Motion for coordinated motion control in complex automation systems.
Modbus TCP: Compliant with IEC 61158-3-14, designed for non-real-time tasks such as data logging, device configuration, and integration with legacy industrial systems.
All supported protocols enable cyclic process data exchange (critical for real-time control loops) and acyclic messaging (for device parameterization, diagnostics, and maintenance). Except for Modbus TCP (client/server architecture), other protocols support configurable master/slave roles to adapt to diverse network topologies.
2. Hardware Specifications (Based on Hilscher COMX Series Standards)
Physical Form Factor: Ultra-compact embedded module with dimensions of approximately 22 mm × 30 mm × 5 mm, optimized for surface-mount (SMT) integration into custom printed circuit boards (PCBs). The RoHS-compliant, lead-free package is suitable for high-volume manufacturing of edge controllers, IoT gateways, and compact industrial devices.
Power Requirements: Operates on a single +3.3 V DC power supply (tolerance ± 10%), with typical current consumption ≤ 180 mA in active mode and ≤ 10 µA in sleep mode. This low-power profile makes it ideal for battery-powered IoT devices or energy-constrained industrial controllers.
Integrated Memory: Equipped with 128 KB SRAM for high-speed real-time data buffering, ensuring smooth handling of process data during peak network traffic. It also includes 512 KB Flash memory for storing firmware, configuration files, and protocol parameters—supporting easy firmware updates and persistent configuration storage. The SRAM can accommodate process data sizes up to 4 KB (input) / 4 KB (output) per protocol, meeting the data volume needs of most industrial applications.
Ethernet Interface: Features an integrated 10/100 Base-T PHY (compliant with IEEE 802.3 standards) with MII (Media Independent Interface) and RMII (Reduced Media Independent Interface) support. Designed for direct PCB routing to external RJ45 connectors, it supports CAT 5e or CAT 6 twisted-pair cabling for reliable data transmission. The interface includes galvanic isolation (500 V DC for 1 minute) to protect against ground loops and electrical surges common in industrial environments.
Certifications: UL 508 certified for safe operation in industrial control equipment, CE marked for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) per EN 61000-6-2 (industrial environment) and EN 61000-6-4 (generic immunity). It also holds protocol-specific certifications, including ETG 2.0 for EtherCAT and ODVA compliance for Ethernet/IP, validating its reliability and compatibility in harsh industrial settings.