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How to Use X8-20: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of X8-20
Cirkit Designer LogoDesign with X8-20 in Cirkit Designer

Introduction

The X8-20 is a versatile programmable logic controller (PLC) developed by Myactuator. It is designed for industrial automation and control applications, offering a robust and reliable solution for managing complex processes. The X8-20 features multiple input/output (I/O) channels, supports a variety of communication protocols, and is engineered for ease of programming and integration into existing systems.

Explore Projects Built with X8-20

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
ESP32-Based Wi-Fi Controlled Robotic System with Multiple Sensors and Motor Drivers
Image of mit: A project utilizing X8-20 in a practical application
This circuit is a sensor and motor control system powered by a 9V battery and regulated by a buck converter. It includes multiple sensors (SEN0245, SEN0427, I2C BMI160) connected via I2C to an ESP32 microcontroller, which also controls two N20 motors with encoders through an MX1508 DC motor driver.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Satellite-Based Timing and Navigation System with SDR and Atomic Clock Synchronization
Image of GPS 시스템 측정 구성도_Confirm: A project utilizing X8-20 in a practical application
This circuit appears to be a complex system involving power supply management, GPS and timing synchronization, and data communication. It includes a SI-TEX G1 Satellite Compass for GPS data, an XHTF1021 Atomic Rubidium Clock for precise timing, and Ettus USRP B200 units for software-defined radio communication. Power is supplied through various SMPS units and distributed via terminal blocks and DC jacks. Data communication is facilitated by Beelink MINI S12 N95 computers, RS232 splitters, and a 1000BASE-T Media Converter for network connectivity. RF Directional Couplers are used to interface antennas with the USRP units, and the entire system is likely contained within cases for protection and organization.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32-WROOM-32UE Wi-Fi Controlled Robotic Car with OLED Display and RGB LED
Image of mkrl bot: A project utilizing X8-20 in a practical application
This circuit is a WiFi-controlled robotic system powered by an ESP32 microcontroller. It features an OLED display for status messages, an RGB LED for visual feedback, and dual hobby gearmotors driven by an L9110 motor driver for movement. The system is powered by a 4 x AAA battery pack regulated to 5V using a 7805 voltage regulator.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32 and L298N Motor Driver-Based Wi-Fi Controlled Robotic Vehicle with GPS and Metal Detection
Image of Revolutioning Demining: AI Powered Landmine Detection: A project utilizing X8-20 in a practical application
This circuit is a robotic vehicle control system that uses an ESP32 microcontroller to drive four DC gear motors via an L298N motor driver. It also includes a GPS module for location tracking, a metal detector for object detection, and an ESP32 CAM for capturing images or video, all powered by a 12V battery.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with X8-20

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of mit: A project utilizing X8-20 in a practical application
ESP32-Based Wi-Fi Controlled Robotic System with Multiple Sensors and Motor Drivers
This circuit is a sensor and motor control system powered by a 9V battery and regulated by a buck converter. It includes multiple sensors (SEN0245, SEN0427, I2C BMI160) connected via I2C to an ESP32 microcontroller, which also controls two N20 motors with encoders through an MX1508 DC motor driver.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of GPS 시스템 측정 구성도_Confirm: A project utilizing X8-20 in a practical application
Satellite-Based Timing and Navigation System with SDR and Atomic Clock Synchronization
This circuit appears to be a complex system involving power supply management, GPS and timing synchronization, and data communication. It includes a SI-TEX G1 Satellite Compass for GPS data, an XHTF1021 Atomic Rubidium Clock for precise timing, and Ettus USRP B200 units for software-defined radio communication. Power is supplied through various SMPS units and distributed via terminal blocks and DC jacks. Data communication is facilitated by Beelink MINI S12 N95 computers, RS232 splitters, and a 1000BASE-T Media Converter for network connectivity. RF Directional Couplers are used to interface antennas with the USRP units, and the entire system is likely contained within cases for protection and organization.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of mkrl bot: A project utilizing X8-20 in a practical application
ESP32-WROOM-32UE Wi-Fi Controlled Robotic Car with OLED Display and RGB LED
This circuit is a WiFi-controlled robotic system powered by an ESP32 microcontroller. It features an OLED display for status messages, an RGB LED for visual feedback, and dual hobby gearmotors driven by an L9110 motor driver for movement. The system is powered by a 4 x AAA battery pack regulated to 5V using a 7805 voltage regulator.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of Revolutioning Demining: AI Powered Landmine Detection: A project utilizing X8-20 in a practical application
ESP32 and L298N Motor Driver-Based Wi-Fi Controlled Robotic Vehicle with GPS and Metal Detection
This circuit is a robotic vehicle control system that uses an ESP32 microcontroller to drive four DC gear motors via an L298N motor driver. It also includes a GPS module for location tracking, a metal detector for object detection, and an ESP32 CAM for capturing images or video, all powered by a 12V battery.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

  • Industrial automation and process control
  • Machine control and monitoring
  • Building management systems (BMS)
  • Conveyor systems and robotics
  • Data acquisition and remote monitoring

Technical Specifications

The X8-20 is built to handle demanding industrial environments while maintaining high performance and flexibility. Below are its key technical specifications:

General Specifications

Parameter Value
Supply Voltage 24V DC
Power Consumption 10W (typical)
Operating Temperature -20°C to 60°C
Storage Temperature -40°C to 85°C
Dimensions 120mm x 90mm x 60mm
Weight 450g
Mounting Type DIN Rail

Input/Output Specifications

Type Channels Voltage Range Description
Digital Inputs 8 0-24V DC Optically isolated inputs
Digital Outputs 8 0-24V DC Relay or transistor outputs
Analog Inputs 4 0-10V or 4-20mA Configurable for voltage/current
Analog Outputs 2 0-10V or 4-20mA Configurable for voltage/current

Communication Interfaces

Protocol Description
RS-485 Modbus RTU support
Ethernet Modbus TCP/IP, HTTP, MQTT
USB Programming and debugging
CAN CANopen protocol support

Pin Configuration

Power and Communication

Pin Number Label Description
1 V+ 24V DC Positive Supply
2 V- 24V DC Negative Supply
3 GND Ground
4 RS485+ RS-485 Positive Line
5 RS485- RS-485 Negative Line
6 CAN_H CAN High Line
7 CAN_L CAN Low Line

Digital Inputs and Outputs

Pin Number Label Description
8-15 DI1-DI8 Digital Input Channels 1-8
16-23 DO1-DO8 Digital Output Channels 1-8

Analog Inputs and Outputs

Pin Number Label Description
24-27 AI1-AI4 Analog Input Channels 1-4
28-29 AO1-AO2 Analog Output Channels 1-2

Usage Instructions

The X8-20 is designed for ease of use in industrial environments. Follow the steps below to integrate and program the device:

Step 1: Powering the X8-20

  1. Connect a 24V DC power supply to the V+ and V- terminals.
  2. Ensure the power supply is stable and within the specified voltage range.

Step 2: Connecting Inputs and Outputs

  • Digital Inputs: Connect sensors or switches to the DI1-DI8 terminals. Ensure the input voltage does not exceed 24V DC.
  • Digital Outputs: Connect actuators, relays, or other devices to the DO1-DO8 terminals.
  • Analog Inputs: Configure the AI1-AI4 channels for voltage (0-10V) or current (4-20mA) as required.
  • Analog Outputs: Use AO1-AO2 for controlling devices like variable frequency drives (VFDs) or proportional valves.

Step 3: Communication Setup

  • Use the RS-485 or Ethernet interface for communication with other devices or systems.
  • Configure the communication protocol (e.g., Modbus RTU or TCP/IP) using the provided software.

Step 4: Programming the X8-20

  1. Install the Myactuator programming software on your PC.
  2. Connect the X8-20 to your PC via the USB port.
  3. Use the graphical programming interface to create logic for your application.
  4. Upload the program to the X8-20 and test its functionality.

Example: Controlling an LED with Arduino UNO

The X8-20 can be interfaced with an Arduino UNO for additional control. Below is an example code to toggle a digital output on the X8-20:

// Example: Controlling X8-20 Digital Output with Arduino UNO
// Connect Arduino pin 7 to the X8-20's DO1 terminal

#define X8_20_DO1 7  // Define Arduino pin connected to X8-20 DO1

void setup() {
  pinMode(X8_20_DO1, OUTPUT);  // Set pin as output
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(X8_20_DO1, HIGH);  // Turn on the output
  delay(1000);                    // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(X8_20_DO1, LOW);   // Turn off the output
  delay(1000);                    // Wait for 1 second
}

Best Practices

  • Use proper shielding for communication cables to avoid interference.
  • Ensure all connections are secure to prevent accidental disconnections.
  • Regularly back up your programs and configurations.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues

  1. Device Not Powering On

    • Check the power supply voltage and connections.
    • Ensure the polarity of the power supply is correct.
  2. Communication Failure

    • Verify the communication protocol and settings (e.g., baud rate, parity).
    • Check the integrity of the communication cables.
  3. Inputs/Outputs Not Responding

    • Ensure the connected devices are functioning properly.
    • Verify the configuration of the I/O channels in the programming software.

FAQs

Q: Can the X8-20 be used in outdoor environments?
A: The X8-20 is not weatherproof. Use it in a controlled environment or within a protective enclosure.

Q: What programming languages are supported?
A: The X8-20 supports ladder logic and function block programming via the Myactuator software.

Q: How do I reset the X8-20 to factory settings?
A: Refer to the Myactuator user manual for detailed instructions on performing a factory reset.

Q: Can I expand the I/O channels?
A: Yes, the X8-20 supports expansion modules for additional I/O channels. Contact Myactuator for compatible modules.

By following this documentation, users can effectively integrate and operate the X8-20 in their automation projects.