The Baumüller b maXX PLC mc is a paradigm-shifting automation platform that collapses the traditional boundary between industrial PCs and classical PLC control units. By combining both functionalities on a single, shared piece of hardware, it offers a uniquely flexible and powerful solution for central automation concepts. The controller is built around an Intel Atom multi-core CPU, partitioned to run a dedicated real-time operating system (RTOS) for deterministic control tasks and a Windows 10 IoT Enterprise operating system for higher-level PC applications. This innovative architecture allows machine visualization, data processing, and complex motion control to coexist on one device, saving valuable cabinet space and reducing overall system complexity.

As a motion control powerhouse, the b maXX PLC mc features an integrated EtherCAT master and excels at highly synchronized real-time tasks, making it ideal for coordinated, multi-axis motion applications. Engineers can leverage comprehensive Baumüller technology libraries to rapidly deploy high-performance automation solutions. The system's ability to achieve high-precision synchronization is further enhanced by support for EtherCAT Distributed Clocks. The controller is equally at home managing discrete logic, process variables, and complex motion profiles, providing a unified platform for the entire machine lifecycle.

Software development is streamlined through the ProMaster engineering framework, which provides a fully integrated environment for configuration, programming, and diagnostics. Control logic can be developed using the ProProg programming system, which offers the full suite of IEC 61131-3 languages. For maximum flexibility and performance, engineers can also program using the open Common Intermediate Language (CIL) directly within Visual Studio®, allowing them to accelerate applications by combining traditional PLC code with high-level languages. A dedicated, externally replaceable battery powers the real-time clock, while 128 kB of NOVRAM ensures that critical process data is securely retained even in the event of a power failure.

Designed with Industry 4.0 in mind, the b maXX PLC mc includes native support for key IoT communication standards such as OPC UA and MQTT. This allows for seamless, interoperable data exchange from the machine level up to cloud-based analytics platforms, enabling advanced use cases like predictive maintenance and new "pay-per-x" business models. Despite its immense processing power, the controller is housed in an ultra-compact, IP20-rated stainless steel enclosure measuring just 110 x 90 x 35 mm and mounts easily on a standard DIN rail. This combination of extreme performance, software flexibility, and a space-saving design makes the b maXX PLC mc a future-proof core for demanding automation tasks.

Technical Specifications