Industrial-grade Linux® for automation systems
The Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution is a Linux® platform specially developed for industrial use. It is based on the free Debian operating system and has been specifically tailored to the requirements of automation environments.
A central component of the distribution is the integrated real-time kernel, which enables precise and deterministic control. The distribution supports use on a large number of Beckhoff Industrial and Embedded PCs and is continuously maintained and updated.
Real-time capability and system openness
The Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution combines real-time capability with the openness and flexibility of a Linux® system. Additional software components are easy to install and manage via the Debian package system. A real-time kernel optimized for control is available as standard, this makes the platform suitable for a wide range of application scenarios – from classic control tasks to advanced applications with GPU acceleration.
Containerization and modular architecture
The distribution is prepared for the use of container technologies such as Docker®, Podman, or LXC. This allows applications to be cleanly separated from each other, designed as modules, and independently maintained.
By supporting containerization, the system offers a flexible foundation for implementing advanced automation concepts, e.g., in virtualized environments or with distributed control units.
TwinCAT Runtime for Linux® as a component of the software system
A key application scenario of the Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution is the operation of the TwinCAT Runtime for Linux®. This enables the execution of TwinCAT control applications directly under Linux®, both in classic and containerized environments.
Several TwinCAT runtimes can be operated in parallel on one industrial PC, enabling flexible control of different system components on a common hardware platform. GPUs can also be accessed from the real-time environment for the purposes of hardware acceleration.
Scalability on Beckhoff hardware
The distribution is available for various system classes – from compact CX82xx series Embedded PCs to powerful industrial PCs. Close coordination with the Beckhoff hardware and the use of tested drivers and configuration components ensure reliable system integration.
The technological foundation for advanced automation
The Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution provides a powerful, flexible, and real-time-capable platform for industrial applications. The combination of real-time kernel, package management, container support, and TwinCAT runtime provides a solid basis for future-oriented control solutions.
Product status:
Please check availability on the product page of the respective devices or in the product finder.
Product information
| Ordering information | |
|---|---|
| C9900-S624 | Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution license for one CPU with TwinCAT 3 platform level 20. The Beckhoff software license agreements are valid. |
| C9900-S625 | Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution license for one CPU with TwinCAT 3 platform level 30. The Beckhoff software license agreements are valid. |
| C9900-S626 | Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution license for one CPU with TwinCAT 3 platform level 40. The Beckhoff software license agreements are valid. |
| C9900-S627 | Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution license for one CPU with TwinCAT 3 platform level 50. The Beckhoff software license agreements are valid. |
| C9900-S628 | Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution license for one CPU with TwinCAT 3 platform level 60. The Beckhoff software license agreements are valid. |
| C9900-S629 | Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution license for one CPU with TwinCAT 3 platform level 70. The Beckhoff software license agreements are valid. |
| C9900-S630 | Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution license for one CPU with TwinCAT 3 platform level 80. The Beckhoff software license agreements are valid. |
| C9900-S631 | Beckhoff RT Linux® distribution license for one CPU with TwinCAT 3 platform level 81. The Beckhoff software license agreements are valid. |
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