The Beijer Electronics Nexto series is a powerful modular programmable logic controller (PLC) platform that combines classic modular control with innovative CODESYS software. Designed for demanding industrial applications in oil and gas, electrical energy, and transportation, Nexto offers a scalable, high-performance solution for both small and large automation systems. Its open architecture supports the company's product philosophy of transparent solutions, allowing the same control project to be applied across different Beijer Electronics products and even adapted from other CODESYS-based platforms.

Key Features & Technical Specifications

• High-Performance CPU Options: The Nexto series offers a range of CPU options. Standard CPUs feature a RISC 32-bit PowerPC processor capable of executing more than 145,000 Boolean instructions or 200 PID loops per millisecond, with application memory from 3MB to 8MB. High-performance CPUs (BCS-NX3008) feature a 1 GHz 64-bit ARM processor, 32MB program memory, 1MB retentive memory, and 3 Gigabit Ethernet ports, capable of 1000 PID loops in less than 5ms.
• Integrated Safety (SIL3 / PLe): Nexto offers complete solutions with integrated safety CPU and I/O modules, allowing ordinary and safety modules to be mixed in the same PLC rack. The system conforms to IEC 61508 SIL3 and ISO 13849-1 Category 4 PLe, and supports PROFIsafe, the most widely used safety communication protocol in industrial automation. This ensures reliable safety monitoring for emergency stops, light curtains, and other safety devices.
• Redundant CPUs & Hot Swapping: For critical and continuous applications, Nexto supports redundant CPUs and hot-swappable modules, minimizing downtime for maintenance. Redundant systems can be located up to 100 meters apart, and up to 30km with a media converter, providing high availability for geographically distributed systems.
• Comprehensive Communication Protocols: Nexto provides high connectivity with support for Modbus TCP server/client, Modbus RTU master/slave, EtherCAT master, Profibus DP master/slave, PROFINET, CANopen, OPC UA, MQTT, and Ethernet/IP. User-defined protocols over serial link or TCP/IP allow integration with any industrial device. The high-performance CPU includes 3 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, 2 of which can be configured as PROFINET I/O controllers with MRP ring manager capability.
• Enhanced Diagnostics: One Touch Diagnostics (OTD) shows system information such as IP address, short-circuited outputs, and alphanumeric tags directly on the module display, activated by a button on each module. This simplifies commissioning and troubleshooting. An integrated web server provides additional diagnostic capabilities and user web pages (Webvisu).
• Compact Modular Design: The Nexto series features a compact and modular design with 18mm and 36mm wide modules. The Easy Plug System (EPS) allows simple plug-in/out of I/O modules without auxiliary tools. The Nexto Xpress compact controllers offer up to 43 I/O points in a single DIN rail-mounted unit, including digital inputs, digital outputs, analog inputs, RTD inputs, and analog outputs.
• IEC 61131-3 Programming with CODESYS: Nexto PLCs are programmed using BCS Tools, Beijer Electronics' powerful CODESYS-based software platform. BCS Tools supports all IEC 61131-3 programming languages: Instruction List (IL), Structured Text (ST), Ladder Diagram (LD), Sequential Function Chart (SFC), Function Block Diagram (FBD), and Continuous Function Chart (CFC). The software includes offline simulation, online editing, and debugging capabilities. Four versions are available: Lite, Basic, Professional, and Advanced.
• Rugged Environmental Ratings: Nexto PLCs are designed for harsh industrial environments with an extended operating temperature range from -20°C to +60°C (standard). Nexto Xpress series operates from 0°C to +55°C. The IP20 protection rating is suitable for control cabinet installation. The high-performance CPU (BCS-NX3008) has a built-in power supply capable of supplying 15W to the bus.
• Comprehensive Certifications: Nexto PLCs hold multiple international certifications including CE, UL, cUL, DNV-GL (marine), and Class 1 Div 2 for hazardous locations where flammable gases, vapors, or liquids may be present. The high-performance CPU (BCS-NX3008) is DNV and UL certified, ensuring compliance with international safety and quality standards.
• Data Storage & Expansion: Multiple Block Storage (MBS) with mini SD card (or micro memory card) supports data logging, project transfer, user file storage, and project documentation. USB interface supports storage, mass memory, USB-Serial converter, wireless, and 3G/4G modem connectivity.

Applications

The Nexto series is ideal for a wide range of demanding industrial applications, including oil and gas extraction and refining, electrical energy generation and distribution, transportation systems, water and wastewater treatment, building automation, food and beverage processing, textile machinery, factory automation, and OEM machine control. Its scalability from small standalone systems to large distributed control architectures makes it a versatile choice for systems integrators and machine builders worldwide.