Description
Product Overview
The Bachmann MX213 is an industrial processor module from the MX200 series, designed for the Bachmann M1 automation and control system.
It combines the CPU, memory, communication interfaces, and an integrated power supply in a compact controller module. The MX213 uses a 266 MHz single-core processor and provides 256 MB of DRAM together with 512 kB of non-volatile RAM.
With two 10/100 Mbit Ethernet interfaces, CAN/CANopen, serial communication, USB 2.0, and CompactFlash support, the MX213 can handle machine control, communication, monitoring, and other automation tasks within an M1-based system. Bachmann specifies fanless operation and an operating temperature range of -30°C to +60°C for the MX200 platform.
Key Features
- MX200 series industrial processor module
- 266 MHz single-core CPU
- 256 MB DRAM working memory
- 512 kB NVRAM
- Integrated file flash memory
- CompactFlash mass-storage support
- 2 × 10/100 Mbit Ethernet interfaces
- 1 × CAN/CANopen interface
- 1 × RS232/RS422/RS485 interface
- 1 × additional RS232 interface
- 1 × USB 2.0 port
- Integrated I/O power supply
- Fanless industrial design
- RUN, INIT, and ERROR status indication
- Designed for Bachmann M1 controller systems
Product Datasheet
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bachmann electronic |
| Model | MX213 |
| Product Family | MX200 |
| Product Type | Processor Module |
| Controller Platform | Bachmann M1 |
| CPU | Industrial processor |
| CPU Frequency | 266 MHz |
| CPU Type | Single Core |
| Main Memory | 256 MB DRAM |
| Non-Volatile Memory | 512 kB NVRAM |
| File Flash | 64 MB |
| Mass Storage | CompactFlash |
| Ethernet | 2 × 10/100 Mbit |
| CAN Interface | 1 × CAN/CANopen |
| Serial Interface 1 | RS232/RS422/RS485 |
| Serial Interface 2 | RS232 |
| USB | 1 × USB 2.0 |
| I/O Power Supply | Integrated, 17 W |
| Process Image Controller | Integrated |
| Status LEDs | RUN / INIT / ERROR |
| Mounting | Bachmann M1 modular system |
| Cooling | Fanless |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +60°C |
| Application | Industrial Automation / Machine Control |
The current Bachmann MX200 product information confirms the MX213’s 266 MHz single-core CPU, 256 MB DRAM, 512 kB NVRAM, 64 MB file flash, dual Ethernet, CAN/CANopen, RS232/422/485, RS232, USB 2.0, and 17 W I/O power supply.
Communication Interfaces
The MX213 is built for applications where several industrial communication channels need to be handled by the same controller.
Ethernet
Two 10/100 Mbit Ethernet ports allow the controller to communicate with separate network segments or connected automation devices.
Typical uses include:
- Controller-to-controller communication
- Engineering access
- Industrial Ethernet networks
- Remote diagnostics
- SCADA communication
- Machine-level networking
CAN / CANopen
The integrated CAN interface supports CAN and CANopen applications. This can be used for communication with compatible drives, I/O modules, sensors, and other CAN-based devices.
Serial Communication
The module provides both a configurable RS232/RS422/RS485 interface and an additional RS232 interface, allowing connection to compatible serial equipment.
Memory & Storage
The MX213 provides 256 MB of DRAM for program execution and working data.
Its 512 kB NVRAM provides non-volatile data storage without requiring battery backup. The MX200 documentation also identifies 64 MB file flash and CompactFlash support for application and data storage.
This arrangement is useful for control programs, configuration files, machine data, and other controller-related information.
Integrated Power Supply
Unlike a simple CPU-only board, the MX213 includes an integrated power supply for the I/O subsystem.
Bachmann specifies an I/O power supply capacity of 17 W for the MX213.
This allows the processor module to form part of a compact M1 controller configuration without requiring a separate I/O power module for the same function.
Typical Applications
The MX213 can be used in:
- Industrial machine control
- Factory automation
- Motion-related control systems
- Process monitoring
- Condition monitoring
- Industrial communication gateways
- Distributed I/O systems
- Production equipment
- Packaging machinery
- Material-handling systems
- OEM machine controllers
Bachmann specifically describes the MX200 platform as suitable for machine control, simple motion control, communication tasks, and condition monitoring.
Installation & Configuration Notes
Before replacing an existing MX213, verify the complete hardware configuration of the M1 system.
Recommended checks:
- Confirm the processor model and hardware revision.
- Verify the M1 backplane and connected modules.
- Check the installed application and controller configuration.
- Record existing Ethernet addresses and network settings.
- Check CAN/CANopen node configuration where applicable.
- Verify serial communication parameters.
- Confirm CompactFlash or application-storage requirements.
- Check the controller status LEDs after startup.
- Verify communication with connected I/O modules.
- Run the machine application and confirm normal process operation.
For a replacement project, retaining a backup of the existing controller program and configuration is strongly recommended.
Environmental Characteristics
The MX200 platform is designed for industrial environments and uses a fanless thermal design. Bachmann specifies operation from -30°C to +60°C.
The fanless construction eliminates a mechanical cooling fan from the processor module, which can be useful in control cabinets where maintenance access is limited.
FAQ
Q: What is the Bachmann MX213?
A: It is an industrial processor module belonging to Bachmann’s MX200 series for the M1 control system.
Q: What processor speed does the MX213 use?
A: The MX213 uses a 266 MHz single-core processor.
Q: How much RAM does it have?
A: It provides 256 MB of DRAM.
Q: Does it have non-volatile memory?
A: Yes. The module provides 512 kB of NVRAM.
Q: How many Ethernet ports are available?
A: The MX213 has two 10/100 Mbit Ethernet interfaces.
Q: Does it support CANopen?
A: Yes. One integrated interface supports CAN/CANopen communication.
Q: Does it have serial ports?
A: Yes. It provides one RS232/RS422/RS485 interface and one additional RS232 interface.
Q: Does the MX213 have USB?
A: Yes. It has one USB 2.0 interface.
Q: Does it have an integrated power supply?
A: Yes. The MX213 includes an integrated 17 W I/O power supply.
Q: Can it be used for machine control?
A: Yes. Bachmann identifies machine control as one of the applications of the MX200 platform.
Q: What is the operating temperature range?
A: Bachmann specifies -30°C to +60°C for the MX200 processor platform.
Q: Is the MX213 suitable as a replacement part?
A: It can be used as a replacement when the existing M1 system, hardware configuration, application, and communication requirements are compatible. Always verify the complete system configuration before installation.
Recommended Bachmann Models
For customers maintaining Bachmann M1 automation systems, related processor and controller models include:
- MX207
- MX213
- MX220
- MX208
- MX214
- MX215
- MX221
- MPC240
- MPC270
- MC205
The MX207, MX213, and MX220 belong to the established MX200 processor family, while Bachmann currently lists newer MX208, MX214, MX215, and MX221 variants in the same family.
Inspection Before Shipment
For an industrial processor module, recommended inspection includes:
- Model and nameplate verification
- Connector inspection
- PCB and housing inspection
- Ethernet port test
- Serial interface test
- CAN/CANopen communication test
- USB interface check
- Memory and storage verification
- M1 backplane recognition
- RUN / INIT / ERROR LED verification
- Controller startup test
- Application/configuration verification where available
For an existing automation installation, matching the exact MX213 configuration is preferable to selecting a processor based only on CPU speed or physical appearance.
