The Beckhoff BC5150 is a CANopen Compact Bus Terminal Controller, designed to provide both fieldbus communication and standalone PLC functionality in one compact device. Engineered for decentralised automation, it allows control tasks to be executed locally at the I/O level while maintaining seamless communication with higher-level CANopen networks. This dual functionality reduces system complexity, increases resilience, and provides engineers with a flexible solution for a wide range of industrial applications.

As a fieldbus coupler, the BC5150 connects Beckhoff’s modular Bus Terminals directly to a CANopen master, enabling integration of digital, analogue, and special-function terminals into distributed control architectures. Up to 64 terminals can be attached directly, with expansion available via K-bus, making the device scalable for both small and medium-sized automation projects.

The BC5150 also acts as a standalone PLC, equipped with 48 kB of program memory and 32 kB of data memory. In addition, it provides 2 kB of remanent data for retaining critical information after a power cycle, ensuring reliable restart behaviour. The device supports a single PLC runtime task, with a processing speed of approximately 3 ms per 1,000 instructions (excluding I/O cycle time). This ensures that local logic executes responsively, even in distributed setups.

Programming is performed using Beckhoff TwinCAT software, giving engineers access to a familiar and powerful development environment. The BC5150 supports IEC 61131-3 programming languages, including Instruction List (IL), Ladder Diagram (LD), Function Block Diagram (FBD), Sequential Function Chart (SFC), and Structured Text (ST). This wide range of languages ensures flexibility in development, allowing engineers to choose the most suitable programming style for their application.

By integrating PLC functionality directly into the bus coupler, the BC5150 enables decentralised control, allowing subsystems to operate autonomously while maintaining coordination with the main CANopen controller. This reduces network load, improves fault tolerance, and enhances the overall robustness of the automation system.

The compact housing makes the BC5150 easy to install in control cabinets, while its modular architecture ensures adaptability for future expansions. As with all Beckhoff products, it is designed for continuous 24/7 operation, guaranteeing long-term reliability in industrial environments.

Applications for the BC5150 span a wide range of industries. In packaging systems, it provides local control for fast and precise machine modules. In logistics and material handling, it manages decentralised sensor and actuator signals. In building automation or smaller process systems, it delivers cost-effective and reliable control at the field level.

In summary, the Beckhoff BC5150 CANopen Compact Bus Terminal Controller is a versatile, compact, and reliable device that combines CANopen bus coupling with powerful local PLC capability. With its integrated runtime system, IEC 61131-3 programming support, and fast execution times, it offers a scalable and future-ready solution for decentralised automation in demanding industrial environments.