Hilscher North America Released comX 90CN Module

The new embedded communication module offers multiprotocol support for compact industrial automation equipment.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Robotics

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Hilscher North America released its new comX 90CN embedded module this week, offering developers expanded multiprotocol support for compact industrial automation devices. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Hilscher North America has launched the comX 90CN, an embedded communication module designed to support various industrial Ethernet technologies. The device provides flexible network connectivity through firmware selection.

Why it matters

The product design aims to provide developers of compact industrial automation equipment with greater flexibility and integrated connectivity. It streamlines the implementation of network interfaces directly on the device baseboard.

The comX 90CN module measures 30 mm by 70 mm and supports various protocols, including PROFINET, EtherCAT, and EtherNet/IP. It also provides IIoT connectivity via OPC UA and MQTT, alongside hardware-assisted security features.

The players

Hilscher North America

This is a regional division of a global company that specializes in industrial communication solutions and automation technology.

The details

The module allows developers to place physical network interfaces directly on a device baseboard to suit specific automation needs. Its firmware-based flexibility supports a wide range of Industrial Ethernet standards.

Timeline

  1. October 8, 2026: Hilscher North America released the comX 90CN module.

The Tech Race

The module follows the industry-wide move toward modular hardware that can adapt to the Industrial Ethernet standard through simple software updates. This replaces the need for proprietary, single-protocol hardware, positioning the company to compete in the growing market for IIoT equipment.

Developers and engineers can utilize this module to accelerate the development of compact machines requiring secure, multi-protocol connectivity. It simplifies hardware design by allowing the baseboard to remain consistent while firmware is tailored to specific communication requirements.

The takeaway

The move toward firmware-selectable communication protocols reduces the complexity of managing hardware inventory for automation providers. This approach enables manufacturers to adapt rapidly to different customer network requirements using a standardized physical module.

Further reading

For more on industry automation trends, visit the Robotics section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Embedded Computing Design.

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Do you believe industrial equipment manufacturers should prioritize modular design for field devices?