Helix 521-PLC Fanless Edge Controller Runs CODESYS on Intel Core Ultra

Helix 521-PLC Fanless Low-Profile SoftPLC Edge Controller

The Helix 521-PLC is an industrial Fanless Edge Controller from Helix, designed for machine control, industrial automation, and edge computing. The system combines Intel Core Ultra processors with a pre-configured CODESYS software stack to run control logic and industrial applications on a single platform. It features up to 96 GB of DDR5 memory, PCIe Gen4 M.2 storage, four 2.5GbE LAN ports, four serial COM ports, and native digital input/output capabilities.

The controller supports industrial communication protocols, including PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP, PROFIBUS, Modbus RTU, and DeviceNet through CODESYS. Its fanless design and compact enclosure make it suitable for space-constrained control cabinets and machine panels. The system also supports machine vision, edge analytics, and AI workloads, allowing industrial users to consolidate multiple applications on one controller.

Helix 521-PLC bottom

Helix 521-PLC Specifications:

• Processor and Graphics:
  • Intel Core Ultra 5 125H, Core Ultra 5 135H, or Core Ultra 7 165H, depending on configuration
  • Integrated Intel Arc graphics
• Memory and Storage:
  • Up to 96 GB dual-channel DDR5-5600 memory
  • One M.2 2280 M-key slot with PCIe Gen4 x4
  • One M.2 B-key slot for expansion
• Ethernet Connectivity:
  • Four 2.5GbE LAN ports
  • Intel I226-series Ethernet controllers
• USB and Serial Interfaces:
  • Six USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports
  • Two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports supporting up to 40 Gb/s
  • Four RS-232/422/485 COM ports
• Display Outputs:
  • Two DisplayPort 2.1 outputs
  • Support for up to four displays
• Industrial I/O and Expansion:
  • Native digital input/output, with optional DIO configurations
  • Optional CAN bus support
  • 3FF SIM slot mapped to the M.2 B-key interface
  • Optional 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity
• Remote Management and Security:
  • Intel AMT and Intel vPro support on selected configurations
  • Onboard TPM 2.0
  • Secure Boot
• AI Acceleration:
  • Optional Hailo AI accelerator
  • Supports edge AI inference workloads
• Power Supply:
  • 12–24V DC input
  • 4-pin terminal block power connector
• Dimensions: 50.8 × 177 × 225 mm
• Weight: 2.26 kg
• Environmental Specifications:
  • Operating temperature: 0°C to 50°C
  • Operating humidity: 5% to 95% (non-condensing)
• Certifications and Compliance: CE, cULus, FCC, UKCA, VCCI, RCM, RoHS, and WEEE markings

Versatile Fieldbus and Edge Connectivity

The Helix 521-PLC comes pre-configured and optimized for CODESYS, which enables users to develop and run industrial control applications. Its pre-tuned Windows operating system supports machine control and edge computing workloads. The controller also supports software environments such as Ignition, Red Hat, and Ubuntu. Depending on the configuration, users can combine control logic with machine vision, AI inference, and edge analytics. Optional wireless connectivity and CAN bus support further expand its integration options.

Dimensions (all measurements in mm)

The Helix 521-PLC Fanless Edge Controller costs $3,146. The manufacturer lists free shipping on orders over $250. Buyers can explore available configurations, processor options, and ordering details on the official Helix 521-PLC product page.