Description
Product Overview
The Bachmann MX213 is an industrial processor module in the MX200 family, designed for the Bachmann M1 modular automation system. It provides the central processing capability for machine control, real-time automation tasks, communication management, and coordination with the M1 I/O subsystem. The documented configuration uses an AMD LX-class x86 processor operating at 266 MHz, with 256 MB of working memory and 512 kB of non-volatile retentive memory. Its integrated power supply also provides power for connected I/O modules, allowing a compact controller arrangement without a separate processor power module.
Communication options are a significant part of the Bachmann MX213 design. The module provides two 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet interfaces, one CAN interface supporting CANopen and J1939, one RS-232 port, one configurable RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 port, and one USB 2.0 interface. A CompactFlash slot supports removable storage, while the front-side PC-Card capability is revision-dependent and should not be assumed on every unit. The processor supports IEC 61131-3 programming and C/C++ development within the Bachmann M1 environment.
For replacement planning, the Bachmann MX213 requires more than a model-number comparison. The current manufacturer item number is 00031491-00, while earlier hardware and order-code generations may carry different identifiers. Internal storage capacity also varies by hardware revision: the manufacturer notes 16 MB on certain revisions up to KR15x.000 and 64 MB on later documented configurations. Before transferring an application, verify the controller revision, M-Base/MxCCore software level, retained data, CompactFlash configuration, and M1 backplane compatibility.
Product Introduction (Non-Templated)
A controller replacement can fail at the software level even when the replacement module fits the same M1 backplane. Hardware revisions, retained memory, CompactFlash contents, and runtime versions all affect how an MX213 returns to service. A successful power-on test alone does not prove that the original application and field communications will operate correctly.
When sourcing this processor, check the complete item number and revision label. In particular, distinguish the standard MX213 from MX213 CC and versions supplied with preinstalled CompactFlash media. Confirm the existing application’s M-Base and MxCCore requirements before scheduling a controller change.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Model | |
| Manufacturer | Bachmann electronic GmbH |
| Manufacturer Item Number | 00031491-00 |
| Product Series | MX200 |
| Controller Platform | M1 |
| Product Type | Processor / CPU module |
| CPU Architecture | x86 / AMD LX |
| CPU Frequency | 266 MHz |
| Processor Cores | 1 |
| Main Memory | 256 MB DRAM |
| Retentive Memory | 512 kB NVRAM |
| Internal File Flash | 64 MB on later documented revisions; 16 MB on certain earlier revisions |
| Removable Storage | CompactFlash slot |
| Ethernet | 2 × 10/100 Base-TX, RJ45 |
| Serial Port 1 | RS-232 |
| Serial Port 2 | RS-232 / RS-422 / RS-485 |
| USB | 1 × USB 2.0 Type-A |
| CAN Interface | CAN / CANopen / J1939 |
| CAN Isolation | Galvanically isolated |
| Supply Voltage | 24 VDC nominal |
| Operating Voltage Range | 18–34 VDC |
| I/O Power Supply | Integrated; rated output 16.75 W |
| Cooling | Fanless |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +60°C |
| Protection Class | IP20 |
| Dimensions | 110 × 119 × 61 mm |
| Weight | Approximately 675 g |
| Mounting | Bachmann M1 backplane |
| Programming | IEC 61131-3, C/C++ |
| Minimum Software Reference | MxCCore V3.80 / M-Base V3.80; later versions may be recommended depending on application |
Specifications are based on Bachmann’s MX200 processor documentation. The internal flash capacity and some interface features depend on hardware revision.
MX213
Major Features and Advantages
Industrial x86 processing
The 266 MHz AMD LX-class processor provides the computing platform for M1 control applications. Its single-core architecture supports the platform’s priority-controlled multitasking environment.
Retentive non-volatile memory
The 512 kB NVRAM retains application data without relying on a conventional battery-backed RAM arrangement. This is relevant to applications that use retained variables or stored operating parameters.
Dual Ethernet connectivity
Two 10/100 Base-TX ports allow the controller to connect to separate Ethernet networks or devices, depending on the system architecture. Confirm IP configuration, network segmentation, and application-level protocol requirements before commissioning.
Flexible serial communication
The separate RS-232 and configurable RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 interfaces support legacy serial equipment and external devices. The electrical interface and pin assignment must match the connected equipment; a software setting alone cannot convert an incorrectly wired connection.
CAN-based field communication
The isolated CAN interface supports CAN, CANopen, and J1939 operation. The actual protocol and device profile depend on the application software and configured network.
Integrated I/O power supply
The processor includes an I/O power supply rated at 16.75 W in the referenced specification. This reduces the need for a separate I/O supply module in supported configurations, but the total connected I/O load must remain within the specified output limits.
Fanless operation
The MX200 platform is specified for operation from -30°C to +60°C without a cooling fan. Cabinet temperature, airflow around adjacent modules, and installation conditions still need to be considered.
CompactFlash storage support
The removable CompactFlash slot supports storage media used by the controller application. Do not assume that a replacement module includes a card or that an existing card can be transferred without checking its contents, format, and software compatibility.
Related Products
- MX207 – MX200 processor module with a different processor and interface configuration.
- MX220 – Higher-performance MX200 processor model; verify application requirements before considering an upgrade.
- CC – Related configuration with a different product designation and item number.
- BS2xx – Bachmann M1 backplane family associated with processor installation.
- BS2xx/S – Related M1 backplane configuration.
- BS2xx/E – Another M1 backplane variant.
- CF 2GB – order variant supplied with a 2 GB CompactFlash card.
- CF 4GB – order variant supplied with a 4 GB CompactFlash card.
These are related platform components and configurations, not universal substitutes. Check the exact backplane type, software baseline, and order-code suffix before selecting a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the Bachmann used for?
The is the processor module for the Bachmann M1 automation platform. It executes control applications and manages communication with the M1 I/O subsystem and connected devices.
Q2: What is the manufacturer item number for the ?
The documented current item number is 00031491-00. Other order codes exist for CC configurations and versions supplied with CompactFlash cards. Check the complete label before ordering.
Bachmann electronic GmbH
Q3: Can the replace an MX207 or MX220?
Do not assume direct interchangeability. These processors have different performance and configuration characteristics. Verify the M1 backplane, application resource requirements, communication configuration, and software compatibility before substituting another model.
Q4: Can I hot-swap the ?
Do not assume that live removal is supported. Follow the M1 system’s approved shutdown and isolation procedure. If the controller is part of a running machine or process, establish a safe process state and confirm the consequences of controller power loss before removal.
Q5: Does the support firmware v3.1?
A generic firmware v3.1 compatibility claim cannot be confirmed from the model number alone. Bachmann documentation references MxCCore and M-Base software versions, including a minimum reference of V3.80 for the documented platform configuration. Confirm the installed runtime, hardware revision, and application build requirements before updating or migrating software.
Series (Compact)
Q6: Does every include a CompactFlash card?
No. The manufacturer’s order list distinguishes the standard from versions supplied with 2 GB or 4 GB CompactFlash media. Confirm the complete item number and quotation contents rather than assuming a card is included.
Q7: What should be checked before installing a replacement ?
Verify the hardware revision, item number, backplane compatibility, M-Base/MxCCore version, application backup, retained variables, CompactFlash contents, network settings, serial interface mode, and CAN configuration. After installation, test controller startup and each connected communication path.
Procurement and Quality Control Notes
For Bachmann , the most important sourcing checks are the item number, hardware revision, and storage configuration.
Before shipment, request:
- A clear photograph of the complete model and item-number label.
- Hardware revision and serial number.
- Confirmation of item number 00031491-00, or a documented alternative order code.
- Confirmation of whether CompactFlash media is included and its capacity.
- Photographs of Ethernet, serial, CAN, USB, and power connections.
- A power-on test showing RUN, INIT, and ERR status indicators.
- Confirmation of the module’s condition and any repair history.
- Warranty terms and return conditions.
Engineering recommendation: Do not treat all units as identical. Confirm the hardware revision and internal storage capacity, then compare the controller’s software baseline and CompactFlash configuration with the existing installation. A matching model designation does not guarantee that an application can be transferred without engineering work.
