SAVAGE, Minnesota, August 28, 2024 – Beckhoff Automation has opened a new regional office in Greater Atlanta. With more than 5,000 square feet, the facility will boost sales, support and training capabilities in addition to accommodating customer meetings, seminars and other events. Strategically located in Alpharetta, Georgia, the office will help ensure Beckhoff continues its strong customer and market share growth across the Southeast U.S.   The new Atlanta-area facility features a state-of-the-art training room to keep customers and employees up to date on the latest advances in automation software, networking and motion control. To support special projects and proof-of-concept validation for customers, the office also has a research and development room stocked with technologies that Beckhoff engineers can use to collaborate with experts across industries.   Known as the “Technology City of the South,” Alpharetta is home to more than 600 tech companies, which employ a significant percentage of the area’s residents. Alpharetta also maintains a strong talent pool of recent graduates of the area’s top universities. The new Beckhoff office is conveniently located in the Sanctuary Park, a lush business campus that resides on a 150-acre nature preserve. The location also offers convenient transportation to downtown ATL and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.   “The new Atlanta office has already become the home base for our Georgia-based team of sales and application engineers and the main hub for our Southeast Region,” said Buck Tanner, Business Development Manager at Beckhoff USA. “Beckhoff continues to experience significant market share growth across industries in Georgia and surrounding states, with many customers who are excited to redefine what’s possible through adaptive automation technologies like XTS and XPlanar. With the new facility in Alpharetta, we’re not only creating opportunities for our team to collaborate and share knowledge, but we’re also demonstrating a firm commitment to our customers and their success.”   In addition to the expansion in Atlanta, Beckhoff has opened new or relocated U.S. facilities in 2024 in Los Angeles, Chicago and Austin, Texas. Along with its U.S. headquarters in the Minneapolis area, Beckhoff maintains numerous regional offices in key metropolitan areas across the United States.   About Beckhoff Automation LLC At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve some the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.     Contact Atlanta Sales and Support Office 877-894-6228 atlanta.usa@beckhoff.com   Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com  

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Aug. 1, 2024 – Beckhoff’s new EL8601-8411 EtherCAT Terminal offers incredible interface flexibility in a compact, 12-mm-wide design. With up to 12 signal interfaces (8 x DI, 2 x DO, 1 x AI, 1 x AO) and nine signal types in one terminal, the multi-interface is ideal for numerous applications. These use cases include systems that require only a few complex signals or to enable highly flexible signal configuration on custom machines without adding single-purpose hardware.   The EL8601-8411 offers a large number of configurable combinations to create a compact solution for applications where only a few complex signals are required. For example, it can serve as an ideal complement to microcontrollers, such as the CX7000 Embedded PC, which offer a direct backplane connection to the Beckhoff I/O system.   In addition to the digital inputs and outputs, one analog input and one analog output can be configured as a current or voltage signal. The digital inputs with configurable filter times can also be used for 24 V HTL encoders with A/B track, including latch and gate function, or as an up/down counter with a counting frequency of up to 100 kHz. Two of the digital outputs can be used as a PWM signal that can be modulated in both pulse width and frequency in a range of 20 Hz to 25 kHz.   As such, the EL8601-8411 can operate in an extremely flexible manner. It can provide digital/analog, counter/PWM/analog, or encoder/PWM/analog configuration options for wide-ranging industrial automation applications.   About Beckhoff Automation LLC At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve some of the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com

SAVAGE, Minnesota, June 6, 2024 – With the EL4374 EtherCAT Terminal, Beckhoff introduces a powerful analog I/O module to increase system flexibility and simplify parts management. The EL4374 is a multipurpose, combined input/output for -10/0 to +10 V or -20/0/+4 to +20 mA signals that can be used for standard automation tasks at a rate of 1 ksps per channel.   The ability to measure such a wide range of signals enables companies to use a single terminal in place of multiple specialized terminals, reducing cost and space requirements in I/O systems. As a result, engineers can easily adapt to evolving application requirements and stock fewer part numbers while improving readiness for unforeseen challenges and future application changes.   The EL4374 terminal combines two analog inputs and two analog outputs in a compact 12-millimeter housing. Engineers can individually parameterize these channels for current or voltage mode using Beckhoff’s TwinCAT 3 automation software. The analog inputs and outputs are digitized with a resolution of 16 bits and transmitted to the higher-level automation device under galvanic isolation.   With a signal measuring range of +107% of the nominal range, the EL4374 terminal also supports commissioning with sensor values in the limit range and evaluation in accordance with NAMUR NE43. The outputs can provide up to 107% of the nominal value. In addition, the high output power allows a load of up to 750 Ω at 20 mA.   About Beckhoff Automation LLC At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com

SAVAGE, Minnesota, April 30, 2024 – Beckhoff Automation has relocated its Chicago operations to an enhanced and expanded office to better serve customers. In addition to housing local sales and support engineers, the new location in Rosemont, Illinois, offers roughly 4,800 square feet for meetings, seminars and training courses in a state-of-the-art learning center. This will further support innovators across industries and drive Beckhoff market share growth.   The new Beckhoff Chicago office is just minutes from O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and offers many nearby options for lodging, dining and entertainment for visitors. Situated at the intersection of Interstates 90 and 294, the facility offers easy access to the Windy City’s downtown and outlying communities.   Beckhoff opened its first Chicago-area office in 2013 in Woodridge, Illinois. Chicago is home to high-tech companies across industries, and the local market has continuously proven its excitement for breakthrough automation technologies from Beckhoff. All of these factors made it an easy decision for the company to double down on the larger, contemporary facility.   “The new Chicago office is truly a showplace location for Beckhoff USA in the Great Lakes region,” said Don Shanklin, Regional Director – Sales and Process Improvement at Beckhoff Automation LLC. “We selected Rosemont due to its convenient location for visitors, whether they’re from Greater Chicago or flying in from across the U.S. or the globe. But this is more than an infrastructure expansion; it’s an investment in our growing local team. This centralized facility will help them share ideas and foster team dynamics as they serve our long-term customers and pursue prospects in the rapidly growing Chicago market.”   In addition to the expansion in Chicago, Beckhoff is opening other new U.S. facilities in 2024 in Los Angeles, Atlanta and Austin, Texas. Along with its U.S. headquarters in the Minneapolis area, Beckhoff maintains numerous regional offices in prominent metropolitan areas across the country.   About Beckhoff Automation LLC At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.     Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC Chicago Sales and Support Office 877-894-6228 chicago.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com

SAVAGE, Minnesota, April 18, 2024 – Beckhoff Automation opened a new office in Austin, Texas, to supercharge the company’s presence in the Southwest. Beyond creating a collaborative workspace, the 3,500-square-foot facility is ideal for hosting industry-specific application seminars, customer meetings, trainings and events.   Complementing the Beckhoff offices in Houston and Dallas, this third Texas facility creates a central site for the local sales and application engineering team to support a growing customer base. Austin is a hub of advanced tech industries, including electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturing. This facility presents countless possibilities for Beckhoff to supply the market with breakthrough automation solutions.   The new Beckhoff office sits between the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and downtown Austin, 4 miles from each. This convenient location in one of the Austin’s most vibrant and diverse communities provides accessibility to local culture for visitors from around Texas, the U.S. or the world. The creative office design and 9,000-square-foot central courtyard space are ideal for customer meetings and collaborative brainstorming.   “As a hotbed of innovation, Austin, Texas, is becoming one of Beckhoff USA’s fastest growing markets,” said Sixto Moralez, Regional Manager – South at Beckhoff Automation LLC. “We’ve seen a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 15% largely due to the area’s focus on disruptive tech. Austin’s rising industries include everything from medical devices and lab automation to EV and battery production, with major activity in process automation and digital manufacturing. The innovators in these industries are embracing our breakthrough technologies, so the Austin office is a great addition to accelerate growth within the region.”   In addition to the expansion in Austin, Beckhoff is opening other new or relocated U.S. facilities in 2024 in Los Angeles, Chicago and Atlanta. Along with its U.S. headquarters in the Minneapolis area, Beckhoff maintains numerous regional offices in prominent metropolitan areas across the United States.    About Beckhoff At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve some of the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind. Learn more at www.beckhoff.com.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 952-890-0000 beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com   Austin Sales and Support Office 844-894-6228 southwest.sales@beckhoff.com  

VERL, Germany, April 11, 2024 – Beckhoff Automation continued its powerful growth trajectory in 2023, increasing global revenue to 1.75 billion euros. This represents a 16% increase compared with the previous year's sales. The company’s more than 5,500 employees worldwide (as of March 2024), including over 2,000 engineers, contributed to this international success.   In the U.S., revenue topped $163.13 million in 2023 – a 21.6% increase over 2022 – and accounted for roughly 10% of Beckhoff global revenue. Beckhoff USA expanded its workforce by 20% as the subsidiary forged new paths, with substantial growth in all areas of operations, technology and sales.   Beckhoff’s success comes largely from its breakthrough technologies. The company, long known as a leader in PC-based control and real-time industrial networking, continues to redefine what’s possible through its development of cabinet-free automation, adaptive manufacturing and integration of AI into industrial applications.   Challenging economic trends in 2023 and 2024 Despite the strong finish, 2023 was a challenging financial year. “The intense growth of incoming orders from 2022 continued in the first few months of 2023 and led to records in order backlog and sales,” explained Hans Beckhoff, Managing Director at Beckhoff. “However, incoming orders declined significantly as the year progressed. We can primarily attribute this to the fact that our customers built up large stockpiles of automation products and placed mass orders in 2022 and at the beginning of 2023 to compensate for fluctuations in deliveries during the global supply chain crisis. They balanced this by ordering smaller quantities as 2023 progressed. In addition, cyclical declines had an impact on some regions and industries.”   In the first quarter of 2024, Beckhoff observed a stabilization in incoming orders with a slightly positive trend. "We anticipate a significant increase in demand in the second half of the year," Hans Beckhoff added. “In 2024, we will probably still see a significant decline in incoming orders and sales in comparison to 2023. We do not expect to see decent growth again until 2025. However, that doesn't worry us. It will be the fifth sharp downturn that we will experience over our 44-year history. As a solid family business, we are well prepared for this and will make the most of the resulting opportunities together with our customers.”   Beckhoff USA invested heavily in people and infrastructure while championing new organizational goals to return to rapid growth. “We took all necessary steps to deliver in the face of extraordinary demand last year,” said Kevin Barker, President of Beckhoff USA. “In 2024, we continue to focus on providing world-class customer experiences, building high-performing teams and maintaining a culture of continuous improvement.”   All Beckhoff products available in-stock again Over the past two years, Beckhoff has made extensive investments in production, warehousing and infrastructure, including increasing production capacity by more than 100%. In the U.S., order fulfillment returned to pre-pandemic lead times through strategic warehousing and supply chain initiatives. The subsidiary completed an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) at its headquarters in the Minneapolis area. The AS/RS increased warehouse storage capacity by 60% with room to grow.   “Implementing the AS/RS was a major undertaking. It was complicated by the fact that we continued to receive product and ship in high volumes from the warehouse during the ambitious two-phase project,” Barker said. “But the positive impact has been huge. We’ve transformed processes for faster turnaround times and provide a more engaging, tech-enabled work experience for our growing warehouse staff.”   In addition, the global supply chain for components has improved significantly across the market. Beckhoff currently supplies almost all products from stock. "Our goal was to do everything we could to assure reliable standard delivery times for our customers again by the end of 2023," Hans Beckhoff stated.   A positive outlook in the long term Overall, Hans Beckhoff remains very positive about the future. The company is engaging with engineers in Germany, the U.S. and around the globe in countless category-defining applications using breakthrough automation tech.   "Automation is a foundational technology used in all areas of society worldwide, and it is a driver behind digital and environmental transformation. Constantly growing demand and the introduction of new categories of products and technology should enable us to return to strong, steady growth from 2025 onward,” Hans Beckhoff said. “Our software and PC-based control technology – in combination with our powerful hardware for I/O, motion, vision and AI, along with the expertise and commitment of our employees – provide an excellent foundation for many successful customer applications. We are looking forward to taking on these challenges."   About Beckhoff At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com 952-890-0000 www.beckhoff.com

SAVAGE, Minnesota, March 12, 2024 – Beckhoff Automation opened an office in Greater Los Angeles to further grow the company’s presence on the West Coast. With a spacious layout spanning more than 4,100 square feet, the new office will function as a collaborative workspace and a hub for events, seminars and customer meetings. Los Angeles' diverse ecosystem of high-tech industries offers opportunities to provide cutting-edge automation solutions, while expanding Beckhoff sales presence and market share.   Located four miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and just minutes from the beach, the Beckhoff office in El Segundo offers convenience and local flair for customers visiting from across the state or the U.S. Its 15th-floor windows show stunning panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.   The location serves as an excellent space for employee and customer collaboration. The local Beckhoff sales and application engineering team will provide support to both new and existing customers across various industries, such as entertainment and digital manufacturing.   “The Southern California territory has become one of the fastest growing areas for Beckhoff USA, with a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) going from 22.5% to 69% in just the last two years,” said Joe Martin, Regional Director – Sales & Strategy at Beckhoff Automation LLC. “The predominant markets of entertainment, space, medical devices, lab automation and digital manufacturing fit perfectly with Beckhoff’s advanced automation technology. It was truly a no-brainer to open a new office in Los Angeles to keep accelerating our sales growth.”   In addition to the expansion in Los Angeles, Beckhoff is opening other new or relocated U.S. facilities in 2024 in Austin, Texas, and Chicago. Along with its U.S. headquarters in the Minneapolis area, Beckhoff maintains numerous regional offices in prominent metropolitan areas across the country.   About Beckhoff Automation At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.     Contact beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com 952-890-0000 www.beckhoff.com

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Jan. 30, 2024 – Alec Abkemeier is taking on a new challenge at Beckhoff USA as a Software Product Manager focused on test and measurement technologies. With a background in measurement software and hardware, Abkemeier will grow Beckhoff’s test and measurement market share in rapidly evolving industries that require next-generation data acquisition and power monitoring capabilities. Abkemeier reports to Daymon Thompson, Director of Product Management.   “Alec's expertise in the test and measurement domain, coupled with his deep knowledge of the complete Beckhoff portfolio, makes him the perfect fit for this position,” Thompson said. “He will be entrusted with product ownership for our TwinCAT 3 LabVIEW™ Interface software. His role will also touch many other technologies that he has a wealth of experience in, from high-speed, high-accuracy measurement I/O terminals to analytics and cloud computing.”   Before joining Beckhoff in 2020, Abkemeier held industrial automation engineering roles at Itron, Inc. and KAMP Automation LLC, a custom machine builder and integrator. At Beckhoff, he has served customers in a broad range of high-tech industries, offering hands-on support at all stages of design, commissioning and operation. His experience with LabVIEW™ also made him an invaluable resource for test and measurement applications that leverage TwinCAT and the scalable ELM EtherCAT measurement terminals.   “Beckhoff has a compelling test and measurement offering for more advanced machine designs through a fully open and integrated platform. My goal in this new role is to bring together my experience from all areas of automation to redefine what’s possible in test and measurement,” Abkemeier said. “Beyond our hardware and software tech, Beckhoff has extraordinary engineering teams that support cutting-edge advances for customers in high-tech industries – and that makes every day especially exciting.”   Abkemeier earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Minnesota State University, Mankato.   LabVIEW™ is a registered trademark of National Instruments. Neither Beckhoff, nor any software programs or other goods or services offered by Beckhoff, are affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by National Instruments.   About Beckhoff Automation At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com 952-890-0000 www.beckhoff.com

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Jan. 23, 2024 – The C6675 control cabinet Industrial PC (IPC) from Beckhoff supports growing requirements for adaptive manufacturing, machine learning (ML) and other transformational applications. Building on proven Beckhoff technologies, the new IPC meets these demands through its robust ATX motherboard and high-performance GPU cards.   With properties typical of an industrial server, the C6675 consolidates numerous complex automation tasks previously handled by separate controllers into one high-powered device. The new control cabinet IPC is equipped with components of the highest performance class based on latest-generation Intel® Celeron®, Pentium® or Core™ i3/i5/i7 platforms on an ATX motherboard designed and assembled by Beckhoff.   By leveraging the rugged housing, heat dissipation and power supply tech from the C6670 series, the new controller enables the use of additional high-performance graphics cards, among other benefits. This makes it possible to implement even computationally intensive ML or machine vision applications in industrial environments.   The C6675 offers numerous available expansion slots, including two PCIe-x1, two PCIe-x4, one PCIe-x16 and two PCI for full-length plug-in cards with a total of up to 300 W power. Two removable SSD or hard disk frames, in conjunction with the on-board RAID controller, form a RAID-1 system with two mirrored hard disks or SSDs. This ensures high data security, so hard disks or SSDs can easily be replaced during operation.   About Beckhoff Automation At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com 952-890-0000 www.beckhoff.com

The CX5600 series offers expandable interfaces, operating system options and a familiar, rugged design for wide-ranging automation applications   SAVAGE, Minnesota, Jan. 18, 2024 – The new CX5600 Embedded PC series expands Beckhoff’s workhorse machine control line with powerful AMD Ryzen™ processors, additional interfaces and operating system options. Retaining the same form factor as previous generations, these DIN rail-mounted embedded PCs provide the flexibility to support an even greater range of applications that require PLC, HMI, motion control and much more.   The new CX5600 series currently includes two device versions, both with AMD Ryzen™ processors: CX5620 (1.2 GHz) and CX5630 (2.0 GHz). Beyond low power consumption, the fanless embedded PCs deliver many standard features: two independent Gbit Ethernet interfaces four USB 3.0 interfaces one DVI-D interface a flexibly assignable multi-option interface ex-factory 4 GB or 8 GB RAM options The system can be expanded on the left-hand side with a CX2500 module. This enables the simple addition of further PC interfaces, such as two additional 1 GB Ethernet ports, or fieldbus interfaces as needed. With an extended operating temperature range from -25 C to +60 C, the CX5600 series devices can be used even in applications with demanding climates.   With TwinCAT 3 automation software, the management in the TwinCAT real-time kernel ensures that sufficient time remains for executing the human-machine interface (HMI) in addition to executing the real-time control tasks in one CPU. The high performance of the graphics kernel integrated in the processor supports demanding visualizations, including advanced user interfaces.   The CX5600 devices offer further flexibility with multiple operating system options. These include Windows 10 and the TwinCAT/BSD alternative OS from Beckhoff.   About Beckhoff Automation At Beckhoff, automation is our calling. We empower engineers to differentiate and succeed as industry leaders – to harness new technologies, embrace open standards and solve the world’s most complex problems. Founded and led by engineers, we organically create advanced controls, communication, IoT and motion technologies that become unique tools for your one-of-a-kind challenges in an age of digital transformation. As a global partner with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis, we remain committed to sustainability, inclusivity and support for the people behind the automation. So whether you’re powering the EV revolution, dazzling on Broadway, launching satellites or harnessing the wind – you can reach new heights for your business, industry and humankind.   Contact beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com 952-890-0000 www.beckhoff.com

SAVAGE, Minnesota, March 29, 2023 – Beckhoff Automation LLC generated impressive results in 2022, growing revenue to $134 million in the U.S., a remarkable increase of 33.4% over the previous year. Beckhoff’s strategic growth goes beyond the impressive sales figures – it crossed over into company footprint expansions and growing the U.S. team to 218 employees. President Kevin Barker attributes the successes to the growing awareness of PC-based automation benefits among technology leaders and continued digital transformation efforts at Beckhoff USA.   “We work side by side with the world’s leaders in electric vehicles, space exploration, sustainable energy, life sciences and other emerging high-tech industries. Our team of experienced engineers – combined with innovative new technologies – continues to be a critical enabler for the engineering teams at these visionary companies, empowering them to move faster and do more,” Barker said. “So we are seeing a decisive shift toward open, adaptive automation technologies that harmonize IT and OT. Beckhoff has been a leader in this trend for decades, so we don’t have to reinvent ourselves as innovative and disruptive. That’s just who we are.”   Beckhoff has already helped transform many of its customers' businesses by implementing adaptive automation technologies in the field. Numerous adaptive manufacturing applications featuring the XPlanar “flying motion” system and the eXtended Transport System (XTS) took shape throughout the U.S. in 2022. The announcement of emerging technologies like the MX-System for cabinetless machine design and the new modular robot ATRO confirms Beckhoff’s relentless commitment to innovation and delivering cutting-edge automation technology.   Beckhoff USA continues the charge to deliver exceptional customer experiences by focusing on a strategic digital transformation. The company has invested in new business software and systems to enhance all areas, from sales and marketing to operations and customer support. Installation of a new automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS), which began in late 2022, will further shorten lead and shipping times upon completion in mid-2023. Beckhoff achieved a 50% increase in local inventory in 2022 to buffer global supply chain challenges and is working to add another 50% increase in 2023.   “As an organization, doubling every three years is a huge challenge. However, we have the ability to think long-term and make the investments we need to not only sustain that growth but to accelerate it,” Barker said. “People are at the heart of what we do. By investing in great people and giving them the tools, support and freedom they need to be successful, we can meet that challenge.   “While there will continue to be global economic forces we can’t control, we can absolutely control how we prepare for uncertainty and respond to opportunities,” he added.   To support this growth, Beckhoff USA expanded its executive team. In the sales organization, Beckhoff promoted Jake Schieffer to Vice President of Sales, Steve Boelte to Regional Director – Central, Don Shanklin to Regional Director – Sales and Process Improvement, and David Emory to Director of Strategic Sales, overseeing strategic industry efforts and the Beckhoff Integrator Group in the U.S. Heading up the technical team, Beckhoff tapped Daymon Thompson as Director of Product Management, Matt Lecheler as Director of Application Engineering, and new hire Kevin Manton as Director of Engineering.   “We’re excited to be able to create so many opportunities for career growth at Beckhoff and to continue to build on the great team and culture we’ve created here,” Barker said.   Dedicated to mentoring and empowering young engineers, Beckhoff USA expanded its internship offering and doubled the program in 2022. After the program, Beckhoff hired 66% of the interns. This trend will continue as the company again doubles the number of interns in the program for 2023. The Associate Application Consultant position is another exciting opportunity launching at Beckhoff USA this year. As a part of this new program, recently graduated engineers will learn on the job and take on challenges in multiple departments at the automation leader’s offices across the U.S.   “Building an incredible, talented team remains critical for sustaining this level of growth. We’re building something amazing here and want amazing people to be part of it,” Barker said. “We will keep making investments in employees at every level, from bringing on skilled new hires to offering current team members opportunities for education and advancement. Our technologies never stop advancing, so we will ensure we have the people and infrastructure to ensure our customers’ success in 2023 and beyond.”   Contact:  Beckhoff Automation LLC 13130 Dakota Ave Savage, MN 55378 Toll-free: 1-877-TwinCAT Local: 952-890-0000 Email: beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com  

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Feb. 28, 2023 – Beckhoff will showcase the latest adaptive automation technologies for the intralogistics industry at ProMat 2023. Top highlights in Beckhoff booth S1541 will include the intelligent mechatronic systems, XPlanar and the eXtended Transport System (XTS) now with No Cable Technology (NCT), and the TwinCAT/BSD alternative operating system (OS) for Beckhoff controls. An advance preview of the MX-System, the emerging hardware platform for completely cabinet-free machine design, will also be on display at the show from March 20-23 at the McCormick Place convention center in Chicago.   Via a variety of hands-on demos, visitors to the Beckhoff booth will be able to interact with the latest in machine control, IoT and analytics, EtherCAT networking and integrated safety. The fully integrated and flexible automation and IoT portfolio from Beckhoff helps engineers tackling wide-ranging intralogistics applications to build the data-driven warehouses of tomorrow – today.   Intelligent transport systems enable adaptive automation Proven in thousands of applications globally, XTS is helping equipment manufacturers completely rethink how to solve complex material handling challenges. XTS delivers high dynamics, software-based changeovers and dramatic footprint reductions. In its ProMat debut, the new NCT extension provides contactless, continuous power supply and synchronous real-time data transmission to XTS movers. The system can now incorporate wide-ranging end effectors and powered devices for processing, material handling or inspection tasks directly on the wireless mover during operation. NCT preserves the compact design of XTS, leverages ultra-fast EtherCAT communication and is fully integrated into TwinCAT 3 automation software.   The XPlanar “flying motion” system delivers unbeatable competitive advantages with magnetically levitating movers. Taking an adaptive automation approach, XPlanar can fundamentally change how equipment manufacturers approach material handling and robotic tasks to disrupt their industry segments. Boosting throughput and flexibility, the system boasts zero friction, automatic collision avoidance, path planning, anti-slosh, 360-degree rotation and zero wear on the system, among other benefits. The base tiles can also be covered with stainless steel, glass or plastic for hygienic distribution and fulfillment environments, such as meal kits, health product subscriptions or pharmaceuticals as just some examples.   PC-based control advantages, now without Windows The TwinCAT/BSD OS continues to see great success in intralogistics applications. Not only does TwinCAT/BSD provide an alternative to Windows, but it also offers the security of a modern UNIX-like OS, selection from a wide range of powerful CPUs and all of the advantages of Beckhoff machine control technologies. The solution works seamlessly on Beckhoff controllers as a non-Windows OS in conjunction with the universal engineering environment and deterministic runtime of TwinCAT.   Continuing the existing benefits of the Beckhoff control architecture, the TwinCAT/BSD environment supports the execution of third-party software from the large FreeBSD repository. The new Hypervisor extends this capability further by enabling virtual machines to run third-party software in Linux, Windows or other OS environments on the same controller. Also continuing the existing benefits of the TwinCAT automation platform, separate tasks can be executed in separate cores of a multi-core processor.   The future of intralogistics is cabinetless with MX-System In another ProMat first, Beckhoff will highlight an emerging technology for comprehensive, IP67-rated machine control: MX-System. Every square foot is valuable in a distribution operation, yet electrical cabinets devour limited floor space, increase installation efforts, add costs and eliminate system flexibility. Freeing up this wasted space has long been a priority for Beckhoff, with innovations like EtherCAT P, the AMP8000 distributed servo system and the C7015 ultra-compact Industrial PC (IPC), an IP65/67 machine controller. Now MX-System puts a truly cabinet-free solution for complete machine control and system engineering into view. The ProMat sneak peek will highlight how the MX-System will handle all tasks and requirements of a machine’s control cabinet in a space-saving design.   Automation solutions for the smart warehouse of tomorrow Visitors to the Beckhoff booth can explore the deep, feature-rich New Automation Technology portfolio. From servo solutions of all sizes to MDR controllers to wide-ranging EtherCAT I/O and inherently scalable machine control hardware, Beckhoff delivers a fully integrated, flexible automation platform to optimize intralogistics equipment and operations.   “The intralogistics industry keeps hearing about building data-driven smart warehouses, and at ProMat 2023, Beckhoff will show how it’s possible today,” said Doug Schuchart, Global Material Handling & Intralogistics Manager at Beckhoff Automation. “While some in the industry are looking ahead to tomorrow, others are still trying to catch up with demand from the e-commerce boom in recent years. Our flexible, scalable automation portfolio offers solutions for many different scenarios – from greater data throughput and freedom of topology with EtherCAT to IoT and advanced control in TwinCAT all the way to next-level mechatronics like XTS and XPlanar. We look forward to showing how these technologies can deliver exciting competitive advantages for today’s leaders in distribution and fulfillment.”   https://www.beckhoff.com/promat       About Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.   Contact: Beckhoff Automation LLC 13130 Dakota Ave Savage, MN 55378 Toll-free: 1-877-TwinCAT

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Dec. 15, 2022 – Beckhoff Automation recently added Wesley Maine to its rapidly growing team as Business Development Leader in the Great Lakes region. Maine brings deep experience in application engineering, sales and management roles across the automation industry. In this role, he will develop new sales opportunities with current customers and prospects throughout Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and Kentucky to further accelerate Beckhoff market share growth. Based out of the company’s Cincinnati-area office, he reports to Don Shanklin, Regional Director – Sales and Process.   “Wes has everything you look for in a business development professional. He is an exciting addition, and we are thrilled to have him on the Beckhoff USA team,” Shanklin said. “Wes is in a great position to leverage his deep experience in sales process, team selling and new customer development – along with enthusiasm for our market-leading automation technologies – to help us drive growth in the Great Lakes region and across the company.”   Maine spent the first 10 years of his career in manufacturing and engineering roles at Mitsubishi Electric Automotive and ATS Automation, Inc. He then worked as a regional sales manager for B&R Industrial Automation for seven years and a sales engineer at Motor Systems, Inc. for four years. After that, Maine joined Mitsubishi Electric Automation for 12 years, most recently serving as Regional Sales Manager.   “As a market-leading, family-run, global business that actively encourages employees to help shape its future, I am thrilled to join Beckhoff,” Maine said. “My 10 years of manufacturing experience and 20 years as a sales engineer provide a solid foundation for me to spearhead new technical sales activities at Beckhoff. My primary goal is to help customers think differently about automation so they can lead in their respective industries.”   Maine earned a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of Dayton.     About Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well-positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.   Contact Beckhoff Automation LLC 13130 Dakota Ave Savage, MN 55378 Toll-free: 1-877-TwinCAT Local: 952-890-0000 Email: beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com  

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Dec. 6, 2022 – Beckhoff USA has promoted Daymon Thompson to Director of Product Management. As a longstanding, key member of the company’s product management team, Thompson has advocated for innovation in manufacturing through advanced automation, IIoT and machine learning technologies. He will leverage his significant experience to lead new product initiatives across the entire Beckhoff portfolio. Based out of the company’s Denver-area office, he reports to President Kevin Barker.   Thompson has achieved more than two decades of success in automation and industrial-controls applications. After beginning his career specializing in CNC technologies, he spent 12 years in the New Technologies Group at DePuy Synthes, a multinational medical-device manufacturer, focusing on R&D while based in the U.S. and Switzerland. Thompson joined Beckhoff in 2011 as an applications engineer in Colorado before quickly taking on the role of North American Product Manager for TwinCAT automation software.   Prior to his promotion to Director of Product Management, Thompson served as Sr. Software Product Manager at Beckhoff USA since 2020, overseeing the growing team of TwinCAT experts as the software platform adds more diverse capabilities. Thompson’s new role will enable him to further drive adoption of New Automation Technology across all product categories and industries.   Thompson also oversees the U.S.-based Advanced Applications Group, which focuses on application proof-of-concepts and prototypes to give customers with complex projects a faster path to adoption and the utmost confidence. Aligning the Advanced Applications Group with the product management team improves understanding of customer needs, helps set product development priorities and optimizes product launch roadmaps. As a result, Beckhoff can deliver innovative solutions at the right time to help machine builders, system integrators and equipment end users across industries gain and maintain competitive advantages.   “Beckhoff’s culture of innovation empowers us to focus resources on R&D and long-term technology strategies rather than letting quarterly stock earnings drive product priorities. We are known for developing revolutionary technologies, and we continue to develop tomorrow’s category-defining solutions today,” Thompson said. “I am excited to work with the strong U.S. and global product management teams to bring those new technologies to the U.S. market. Through our unique, open approach to automation, our customers can continue to be global leaders in their own industries.”   Thompson earned two Bachelor of Science degrees from Regis University in Denver, one in computer science and one in computer information systems.   About: Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well-positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.   Contact: Beckhoff Automation LLC 13130 Dakota Ave Savage, MN 55378 Toll-free: 1-877-TwinCAT Local: 952-890-0000 Fax: 952-890-2888 Email: beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com  

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Dec. 1, 2022 – Beckhoff has once again created new possibilities in adaptive automation by expanding the functionality of the XPlanar “flying motion” system. Now, on top of XPlanar’s impressive, field-proven capabilities, the solution can handle more products with even more flexibility through new mover identification, movers for two lanes of traffic on one tile, rectangular movers and mover coupling for higher payloads.   XPlanar now provides greater traceability through ID technology integrated into the mover bumper. The ID functionality enables unique identification of XPlanar movers by reading the mover’s individual serial number. The ID bumper is easy to mount or retrofit on movers already in the field, and it requires no additional hardware. This solution makes it possible to seamlessly track movers and the products they carry – even after system shutdown and restart. The bumper ID also eliminates the need for homing at system startup with appropriate programming.   Among the new XPlanar mover variants, the APM4221 is now the second smallest model in the APM4xxx family. It supports payloads up to 1 kg and is ideal for handling small and medium-sized products with 140 mm center-to-center spacing. With dimensions of 127 x 127 mm, the APM4221 allows two lanes of traffic to flow simultaneously across one row of XPlanar tiles. This enables a complete production cycle, including recirculation, with minimal footprint. The same applies to the APM4230 rectangular mover, which measures 115 x 155 mm, for payloads of up to 0.8 kg.? A third new variant is the AMP4350 rectangular mover, which measures 155 x 235 mm and supports payloads of up to 3 kg. By adding a second row of tiles to the XPlanar base, the APM4350 rectangular mover enables up to three lanes of transport for longer products, further increasing adaptive automation capabilities.   The APM4550 XPlanar mover is the largest version (235 x 235 mm) and can transport payloads up to 4.2 kg, making it the perfect device for handling larger, heavier products. More elaborate workpiece carriers and attached tooling can also help meet specific application requirements.   However, XPlanar can transport and position payloads weighing far more than 4.2 kg. Using a simple adapter, several movers can be mechanically fixed together and the payload increases linearly. Coupling four APM4550 movers would result in a new maximum payload of approximately 14.8 kg.   Contact: Beckhoff Automation LLC 13130 Dakota Ave Savage, MN 55378 Toll-free: 1-877-TwinCAT Local: 952-890-0000 Fax: 952-890-2888 Email: beckhoff.usa@beckhoff.com www.beckhoff.com LinkedIn | Twitter: @BeckhoffUSA

After successfully leading Beckhoff’s Midwest region team, Schieffer will promote further growth, alignment and effectiveness across the entire U.S. sales organization   SAVAGE, Minnesota, Sept. 27, 2022 – Jake Schieffer is taking on a new role within Beckhoff USA as Vice President of Sales. This promotion results from Schieffer’s significant successes as Regional Director – Midwest. In the newly created national position, he will continue to promote business alignment throughout the sales organization and accelerate growth across the U.S. Based at the Beckhoff USA headquarters office in the Minneapolis area, Schieffer reports to President Kevin Barker. After Schieffer’s promotion, Steve Boelte was selected to fill the position of Regional Director – Midwest.   “Jake has proven to be a powerful catalyst for positive change at Beckhoff USA,” Barker said. “He is excited about the future prospects for our company and people, as well as the current incredible market opportunities we are capitalizing on. As we continue to grow and add category-disrupting technologies, I am confident Jake is the right person to help scale our sales organization to take advantage of those opportunities.”   During his storied automation industry experience, Schieffer has focused on driving customer engagement across a broad spectrum of industries, applications and suppliers. He began his career at Rockwell Automation in sales and engineering roles, served as Sales Manager – Services for EESCO Distribution and then became District Sales Manager for Kaman Automation. Since joining Beckhoff USA in 2020, Schieffer has expanded sales and engineering teams to deliver increasingly better experiences for wide-ranging customers throughout the Midwest.   “I love this company and look forward to having a broader impact within Beckhoff USA,” Schieffer said. “It will be critical to ensure our sales organization has the resources needed to grow market share, pursue high-potential opportunities and increase alignment by removing barriers to open communication. There has never been a better time to be part of the Beckhoff family, and by continuing to strengthen the culture, our people will be in a position to do their best work and tell the exciting story of Beckhoff Automation technology.”   Schieffer earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He also holds an MBA from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.   About Beckhoff Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well-positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.   Contact James Figy Beckhoff Automation  Phone: 952-428-7321 j.figy@beckhoff.com  LinkedIn | Twitter: @BeckhoffUSA

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Sept. 21, 2022 – Empowering leaders in packaging, food and beverage, and pharmaceuticals to conquer automation challenges, Beckhoff will showcase flexible robotics, cabinetless control systems and adaptive automation technologies at PACK EXPO International 2022. The modular Automation Technology for Robotics (ATRO) solution will appear for the first time in North America at the show from Oct. 23-26 in booth S-3882 in the south building of Chicago’s McCormick Place convention center. Beckhoff will also present the latest in adaptive automation, including XPlanar and the eXtended Transport System (XTS) now with No Cable Technology (NCT), an advance preview of the MX-System for cabinet-free machine design and other exciting industrial automation advances to take packaging operations to the next level.   Make the robot fit your packaging application with ATRO A breakthrough concept for packaging, microfulfillment and beyond, ATRO provides a flexible, fully modular system for robot kinematics with simplified assembly and path teaching. Users can select the number and type of axes required for robots with payloads up to 10 kg and reach of up to 1.3 meters. An innovative media feed concept routes data, power and fluids internally with infinite rotation available for all axes, which never need to stop to unwind cables.   Ideal for countless packaging applications, ATRO enables wide-ranging robot kinematics, including expansive configurations with as many as eight robotic arms. The TwinCAT control software simply scans the user-created robot mechanical assembly, and TwinCAT robotics functions automatically create the corresponding control application – including a digital twin.   New mechatronics tech powers adaptive packaging automation The XTS has proven itself in thousands of applications around the globe through high dynamics, software-based changeovers and footprint reductions by eliminating mechanical components. Beckhoff continues to advance this dynamic technology with the washdown-capable IP69K XTS Hygienic and highly flexible Track Management capabilities. Now, the new NCT extension takes XTS to the next step.   Making its PACK EXPO debut, NCT delivers contactless, continuous power supply and synchronous real-time data transmission to the XTS movers. NCT enables processing steps and high-quality control directly on the wireless mover during operation with a fully integrated solution that preserves the compact design of the mechatronic system. Ultra-fast communication with EtherCAT and the TwinCAT control software simplify the use of myriad sensors, end effectors and other tooling for advanced packaging processes.   Returning to the show, XPlanar delivers competitive advantages with magnetically levitating movers. This “flying motion” system replaces many functions of conventional material handling systems and robots, while revolutionizing throughput and flexibility. Other advantages include zero friction, automatic collision avoidance, path planning, anti-slosh, 360-degree rotation and zero wear on the system, along with the ability to cover the tile base with stainless steel, glass or plastic for hygienic production environments.   Packaging machines without electrical cabinets: MX-System In an emerging technology preview for the packaging industry, Beckhoff will present the MX-System, a comprehensive, IP67-rated solution for cabinetless machine control. Electrical cabinets are notorious for taking up valuable floor space, increasing installation efforts and adding costs, so Beckhoff has worked to eliminate them with innovations like One Cable Automation with EtherCAT P, the AMP8000 distributed servo system and the C7015 ultra-compact Industrial PC (IPC), an IP65/67 machine controller. MX-System offers the first complete machine and system engineering solution for truly cabinet-free automation.   This PACK EXPO sneak peek will highlight how the MX-System handles all tasks and requirements of a machine’s control cabinet in a space-saving design. The solution’s modular construction kit encompasses energy supply, fuse protection and distribution, generation and monitoring of auxiliary voltages, I/O sequence control and control of motors and actuators. The connection level for field devices is also included in this machine-mountable solution.   Automation solutions from infeed to end of line Beyond the exciting product introductions, visitors to the Beckhoff booth can explore the deep, feature-rich portfolio from the pioneer in PC-based automation. From servo solutions of all sizes to wide-ranging EtherCAT I/O and integrated safety technologies to inherently scalable IPC hardware, Beckhoff delivers a fully integrated, flexible automation platform to optimize packaging machines and plants.   Of course, no showcase of Beckhoff technologies would be complete without a major focus on TwinCAT automation software. As an end-to-end engineering and runtime platform, TwinCAT combines all machine functionality – PLC, IoT, motion control, analytics, machine vision, machine learning and more. This singular, universal software suite, along with how it moves packaging industry applications toward adaptive automation and Industry 4.0, will also be on display.   “With the U.S. debut of ATRO, along with the packaging industry’s first look at XTS NCT and the MX-System, Beckhoff will show the path toward adaptive packaging automation at PACK EXPO 2022,” said Mark Ruberg, Packaging Industry Manager at Beckhoff Automation LLC. “The pace of consumer trends and production challenges continues to speed up, so leaders in packaging, pharma, and food and beverage want extremely adaptable automation technologies to meet the pressing needs of today and adapt to the requirements of tomorrow. Beckhoff continues to develop category-defining solutions that are flexible, scalable and fully integrated to help everyone – from a small machine builder to a globally operating CPG – build the future of packaging machine technology.”   About Beckhoff Automation Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.  

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Sept. 13, 2022 – The MX-System from Beckhoff is a flexible, space-saving and intelligent automation hardware system that can completely replace conventional control cabinets, creating entirely new levels of efficiency in plant automation. Control system installation processes that normally took 24 hours or more can now be completed in just one hour.   As a modular control cabinet replacement that can also be decentralized on the machine if required, the MX-System saves engineering, assembly, installation and maintenance efforts. This promotes highly efficient processes for the manufacturers and operators of machines and systems – from the planning, setup and installation of the MX-System through to the maintenance of MX-System-equipped machines.    The basic concept of the MX-System is to standardize the electrical and mechanical interfaces for all electronic and electromechanical components. This novel approach results in two interfaces: The data interface integrates each functional module into an EtherCAT network and supplies it simultaneously with 24 V DC and, if necessary, also with 48 V DC. A second interface has been defined as standard for the low-voltage range. These interfaces distribute the mains voltage of up to 480 V AC and a DC voltage of up to 600 V for the drive system. This standardization means all functionality traditionally found in a control cabinet can be mapped in a backplane system. Just like the interfaces, there are two different backplane types, which have the described interfaces in the form of connectors as essential features. The backplanes feature robust aluminum housings for maximum durability. The combination of the backplane and housing is called a baseplate.    In addition, there is a full range of function modules from the areas of IPCs, bus couplers, I/O, motion, relays and system power supply. These are simply plugged in and screwed onto the baseplate. The combination of a baseplate and function modules results in an IP67-protected automation system that optimizes space utilization and can mount directly on the machine.   MX-System advantages for engineers The system architecture of a baseplate combined with function modules results in a highly modular solution that helps solve a wide range of automation tasks without enclosures. A particular advantage is that the MX-System function modules integrate individual functions, such as line protection for outgoing lines. This facilitates project planning and significantly reduces the number of components. As a result, these advantages can reduce the number of pages in circuit diagrams and parts lists by up to 80%.    Even in the engineering phase, the low installation space requirements of the MX-System create further advantages by facilitating better collaboration between departments. For example, there is usually no need to design special installation spaces and brackets for the system. The MX-System also meets the requirements of important control cabinet standards and, in contrast to conventional cabinets, it also complies with IEC, UL and CSA, making it a globally standardized solution.   Advantages for automation system setup The principle of plugging function modules onto a baseplate and fastening them with screws not only revolutionizes control cabinet design but also completely replaces it in the form known today. This approach eliminates mechanical assembly of the control cabinet and its own mounting plate as well as time-consuming manual wiring. Through these advantages, an MX-System can be set up within just one hour, including the necessary tests and checks. For a comparable control cabinet, the total setup time would be at least 24 hours. As a result, the MX-System also addresses the persistent shortage of skilled workers, as it takes individual employees significantly less time to complete a given task.    From a logistical point of view, there are also clear advantages for control cabinet design. By eliminating mechanical work steps, assembly tasks require considerably less space. Processes such as external control cabinet design can be completely dispensed with, and wiring errors no longer occur.   Advantages in machine installation The MX-System integrates visually and functionally into the machine installation space due to its considerably compact design compared to conventional solutions. This reduces the machine footprint many times over. The possibility of cascading MX-System installations enables modular machine concepts. In addition, there are significantly shorter cable runs to the sensor or actuator level. The use of pre-assembled cables shortens the installation time further and provides a high level of protection against errors during cable connection. The connections do not have to be completed by specially trained electricians due to the simple plug-and-produce nature of the modules.   Advantages for the machine end user For the machine end user, there are clear advantages in terms of service and maintenance: the MX-System consists of components that are networked throughout via EtherCAT, so comprehensive system diagnostics are always available. In addition to classic status LEDs, each function module has a unique serial number in the form of a DataMatrix code. This code can be scanned via a smartphone app, which connects the smartphone to the controller to retrieve diagnostic data on the corresponding function module.    MX-System module exchange is also very easy, since the modules are hot-swappable and can be plugged in and unplugged during operation. Just like the manufacturer of the machine, operators also benefit from the fact that the modular MX-System covers the complete range of automation technology with considerably fewer parts and therefore fewer assemblies to stock as spares. Through their simple basic principle, MX-System modules can also be reused very easily beyond the life cycle of the machine.   Beckhoff MX-System   About Beckhoff Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.   Contact James Figy Beckhoff Automation  952-428-7321 j.figy@beckhoff.com  LinkedIn | Twitter: @BeckhoffUSA    

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Sept. 15, 2022 – Beckhoff Automation hired Sixto Moralez to serve as South Region Sales Manager. Moralez brings nearly two decades of automation industry experience, spanning engineering, sales and management, with a particular focus on motion control and robotics. He plans to use his expertise to drive Beckhoff market share across industries and lead the strong regional team to further success. Based in the Dallas area, he reports to Regional Director – West Joe Martin.   Early in his career, Moralez held applications engineering roles, including at Danaher Motion, and served as a controls engineer for Wynright Robotics. He spent the previous 11 years at Yaskawa America, Inc., starting as Regional Motion Engineer and working up to Senior Regional Motion Engineer and Latin America Sales Manager. In this role, he maximized technical and sales support resources across the Yaskawa sales and engineering team and worked with sales partners, machine builder OEMs and end users to design and implement motion solutions.    “Beckhoff continues to release captivating automation technologies, and I am excited to join a customer-focused team so invested in ingenuity and innovation,” Moralez said. “In this role, I look forward to mentoring the strong South team – as well as being mentored – while capitalizing on Beckhoff USA’s established successes. My technical background will help enhance capabilities within the team and expand awareness of our impressive software and hardware technologies.”   Moralez earned a Bachelor of Science in electronic engineering technology from DeVry University.   Beckhoff USA   About Beckhoff Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well-positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.   Contact James Figy Beckhoff Automation  952-428-7321 j.figy@beckhoff.com  LinkedIn | Twitter: @BeckhoffUSA    

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Aug. 30, 2022 – Azad Jafari joined Beckhoff Automation as I/O Product Manager, a key role that oversees the company’s I/O systems, EtherCAT and other industrial networking solutions across the U.S. In addition to deep engineering experience with complex automation solutions, Jafari possesses considerable expertise in business development and industry management, particularly in consumer electronics. Based at Beckhoff USA’s Silicon Valley Technical Center in San Jose, he is an impressive addition to the already strong product management team.   Jafari comes to Beckhoff after an impactful career at Siemens in the San Francisco Bay Area, which began with 14 years in industry management. He then spent several years as a product manager and application engineer for EandM, a California-based automation distributor, before returning to Siemens. For the past decade, Jafari held various roles at the technology conglomerate, including Senior Automation Network Consultant, Business Development Manager and, most recently, Industry Manager and Senior System Engineer.    “Joining Beckhoff gives me the opportunity to deliver complete, state-of-the-art I/O systems to customers and work with an incredible product management team,” Jafari said. “From my experience working with OEMs and end users in Silicon Valley, it’s clear that scalable, futureproof technologies are critical. The EtherCAT industrial Ethernet protocol and a wide-ranging, expandable I/O portfolio from Beckhoff offer the optimal solution. I look forward to serving as a trusted adviser to our customers and technology partners, along with my new colleagues, to solve today’s most pressing industrial networking challenges.”   Jafari earned a Master of Engineering with a focus on electrical engineering and control systems from South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences in Hagen, Germany.   About Beckhoff Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well-positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.   Contact Shane Novacek Beckhoff Automation  Phone: 952-808-6515 s.novacek@beckhoff.com LinkedIn | Twitter: @BeckhoffUSA

SAVAGE, Minnesota, Aug. 31, 2022 – Beckhoff is taking the next step in mechatronics flexibility with No Cable Technology (NCT), a major extension of its proven eXtended Transport System (XTS). NCT provides contactless power supply and synchronous real-time data communication directly to XTS movers. This solution enables individual movers to serve as mobile handling and processing stations, essentially turning the intelligent transport system into a powerful, highly flexible multi-robot system.    The modular XTS solution has been expanded with NCT to include a special motor module as well as electronics that mount on the movers. The hardware required for the transmission technology is fully integrated into the motor module, so the system does not sacrifice any existing functionality or expand equipment footprint. No additional connections or supply lines are needed. The control of the hardware on the mover is fully implemented in standard TwinCAT software. All known TwinCAT functionalities are available for simple project implementation.    For the first time, NCT makes it possible to process and check the quality of products on the XTS mover while the process is running. Sufficient power and fast communication with the TwinCAT control system enable easy connection of sensors and actuators. The data communication is real-time capable and can synchronize system-wide events with μs accuracy in conjunction with the EtherCAT industrial Ethernet protocol.    The impressive capabilities of XTS with NCT empower engineers to design new breakthrough solutions, especially for dynamic product handling, machining and measuring in parallel with product transport. Its strengths also assist with adapting production machines for rapidly changing production lots: Various motion sequences can be implemented on the mover itself, for example, to align a product. The mover becomes a mobile handling system with electromotive grippers, lifting magnets or vacuum suction cups that can pick up, transfer and deposit products. Heating or cooling of products during transport is just as possible as performing inline measurement. The integrated data communication enables, for example, unique mover, toolbox and product identification as well as state and process monitoring on individual movers. No Cable Technology (NCT) for XTS                                                           About Beckhoff Beckhoff Automation is a provider of advanced and open automation solutions based upon proven technologies for customers to implement high performance control systems faster and at a lower overall cost than traditional PLC and motion control systems. Beckhoff’s “New Automation Technology” product range includes PC-based control, Industrial PCs, automation controllers, operator interfaces, I/O, servo drives and motors. With representation in more than 75 countries, Beckhoff is well positioned to provide global sales and service to its customers. Beckhoff sales and service are handled directly, with no intermediaries involved for exceptional customer service and consultation.   Contact James Figy Beckhoff Automation  Phone: 952-428-7321 j.figy@beckhoff.com  LinkedIn | Twitter: @BeckhoffUSA