Mitsubishi Electric’s new FX3S creates a new PLC category as it completes the market-leading FX3 compact PLC range with their most powerful micro PLC yet. Using the power and flexibility of the existing FX3G & FX3U premium compact PLCs in a micro format Mitsubishi have created a new PLC category of Premium Micro PLC.

Over the last 30 years Mitsubishi Electric has continually developed the compact PLC achieving sales of over 12 Million units worldwide during that period. Mitsubishi Electric’s philosophy is that the FX3S incorporates many of the features and functions of its larger FX3 siblings.

The FX3S comes in 10, 14, 20 and 30 I/O variants just like its predecessor the FX1S and it also has the same footprint, making it easy for users to upgrade to the newer PLC without a major redesign and associated engineering costs.  Prices range from £120 to £300.  There is also a new version of the 30 I/O FX3S CPU which includes built-in analogues and is ideal for simple temperature or flow control systems.

Adding Ethernet connectivity at this level means that FX3S is not just a PLC but should also be considered an intelligent data logger or even distributed I/O. When used in conjunction with Mitsubishi’s MAPS SCADA and MX4 Energy management software solutions, plant-wide data collection can be achieved with minimal cost and effort by deploying FX3S PLCs close to where they are needed.

The FX3S has increased memory capacity and a faster processor.  It is expandable by using the existing, slim FX3 ADP modules, and offers a choice of analogue and communication options including Ethernet and RS422/485 serial. The built-in “Freqrol” driver that enables users to set up a simple, low cost network of PLC and up to 8 Mitsubishi inverters allowing the FX3S to tackle tasks as diverse as materials handling to heating and cooling applications.

FX3S is programmed by the GXWorks2 software which offers total flexibility and choice, allowing the designer to choose a simple ladder style programming method, or the more advanced structured style. FX3S is also included in the comprehensive iQ Works navigator allowing users to easily configure systems using Mitsubishi’s GOT series HMIs and the FX3 PLCs in one software package.

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