Mitsubishi Electric launches next generation iQ-F controller range.

Mitsubishi Electric UK has expanded its iQ automation platform with the launch of a new generation of the market leading FX Series of PLCs with the next generation’ MELSEC iQ-F range of compact programmable logic controllers, starting with the FX5U.

The FX5U is addresses the demand for compact PLCs for machine control, and automation markets.  Mitsubishi claims industry leading performance and functionality and for the first time unified interconnectivity with other models from their iQ automation platform.  It also features a unified programming environment to improve user experience.

First model in new series

The first model in the iQ-F series is the FX5U, offering high performance in a compact, cost effective package. The FX5U continues the FX tradition of total flexibility by offering a huge range of new and existing add-on options which further enhance the built-in functions of Ethernet, analogue I/O, data logging, position control, security, communications and networking functions incorporated as standard.

The FX5U will provide users with the ability to specify more powerful systems but with fewer overall components, saving time and cost. It offers functions which to date have only been available on larger PLCs, such as motion control, data logging and sophisticated security features.

Common software platform

The iQ-F controllers are programmed using the new GX Works3 software which provides an intuitive, graphical, structured programming environment. GX Works3 offers a wide range of programming options including dynamic labels, parameterisation instead of programming, and the automatic creation of hardware function blocks and visual function blocks, including HMI templates. This drag-and-drop hardware and software configuration reduces overall configuration time by over 60%, whilst the intuitive approach to programming reduces development costs and development errors.

The iQ-F series builds on the legacy of the market leading FX series of PLCs and will extend over the coming years, offering even more choice in the compact PLC range.

Introducing the FX5U Compact PLC – The next level of industry on YouTube

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