Brandon Snell How to leverage EtherCAT diagnostics that are built into Beckhoff's cabinet-free MX-System. The MX-System is fully networked via EtherCAT, providing a wide range of benefits, including powerful built-in diagnostic capabilities. Breaking free from cabinets, bundling functionality Each MX-System function module plugs into a baseplate, providing the module with a connection to the EtherCAT network and tapping into the integrated power distribution via the backplane. The baseplate design also allows for certain modules to be hot-swappable, and the system supports decentralized configuration with the flexibility to expand or integrate into existing cabinet-based architectures. The MX-System further simplifies what was already quite simple with EtherCAT diagnostics by introducing a Bluetooth-enabled dongle providing read-only access to MX-System modules. An accompanying app for smartphones and tablets provides the user with the ability to quickly diagnose and troubleshoot systems. Pinpointed fault detection and resolution Simplified maintenance via visual and remote interfaces Flexible, modular design and hot-swap capability The MX-System’s IP67-rated design and modular installation capabilities, combined with EtherCAT's diagnostic transparency, allows deployment in challenging industrial environments while providing quick access to control system and network insights. Leveraging diagnostics during commissioning can even speed up installation and configuration, while ongoing monitoring supports operational reliability. Future MX-System expansions remain straightforward thanks to the inherent modularity and increased visibility. An MX-System application as viewed in TwinCAT 3 HMI Scope which offers a range of tools for visualizing and charting large quantities of data which can further support diagnostics efforts. A new era of automation insights With each MX-System module functioning as an EtherCAT node, real-time diagnostics, exceptional performance, and network transparency are all built in. This increases uptime, simplifies service, and prepares operations for future expansion—especially for end users who are pressured to deliver the goods under the dueling pressures of maximizing uptime and keeping up with continuous technological innovation. Brandon Snell is the MX-System Product Manager at Beckhoff Automation