The Mitsubishi MELSEC iQ-F Series represents a comprehensive renewal of the MELSEC-F series, delivering next-generation compact PLC performance. It features a high-speed system bus, rich built-in functions, and advanced motion control capabilities via SSCNET III/H, all within a compact, all-in-one package that integrates power supply, CPU, and I/O.

CPU Performance

The MELSEC iQ-F Series is equipped with a CPU capable of high-speed processing with an instruction operation speed (LD instruction) of 34 ns. The CPU supports execution of structured programs and multiple programs, SFC language, ST language, and FBD/LD language. Program memory capacity is 128k steps, with comment and statement areas separated, allowing all 128k steps to be used exclusively for program storage. The program memory uses non-volatile flash ROM, eliminating the need for battery backup.

Built-in Functions

The FX5U CPU module comes standard with extensive built-in functions:

• Built-in Positioning: 4 axes, up to 200 kHz pulse output (transistor output type), supporting JOG operation, machine home position return, 1-speed/2-speed positioning, variable speed operation, and table operation.
• Built-in High-Speed Counter: Up to 8 channels at 200 kHz high-speed pulse input (FX5U-32M: 6 ch 200 kHz + 2 ch 10 kHz).
• Built-in Analog I/O: A/D 2 channels 12-bit voltage input (0-10V DC, resolution 2.5mV) and D/A 1 channel 12-bit voltage output, with alarm output function.
• Built-in Ethernet Port: 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX, supporting socket communication, remote maintenance via GX Works3 over VPN, and SLMP communication.
• Built-in RS-485 Port: Conforming to RS-485/RS-422 standards, supporting inverter communication (up to 16 units, max. 50m) and MODBUS RTU communication (up to 32 devices).
• Built-in SD Memory Card Slot: Supports SD/SDHC cards up to 16 GB for program updates, data logging, and device comment storage.
• Web Server Function: Enables remote monitoring of PLC status and data via standard web browser.

Expandability and Modules

• Motion Control: High-accuracy positioning control is possible with CC-Link IE TSN-compatible motion modules (FX5-40SSC-G, FX5-80SSC-G) and SSCNET III/H-compatible simple motion modules (FX5-40SSC-S, FX5-80SSC-S), supporting linear/circular interpolation, continuous trajectory control, S-curve acceleration/deceleration, synchronous control, cam control, and torque control.
• I/O Modules: Available in various configurations with and without built-in power supply. Control scale ranges from 32 to 384 points on CPU modules, expandable up to 512 points with CC-Link, AnyWireASLINK, and Bitty series remote I/O.
• Analog Control Modules: Options for analog inputs/outputs, temperature sensor inputs, and temperature control (PID, heating/cooling PID, cascade control). FX3 series analog intelligent function modules can also be connected using bus conversion modules.
• Network/Communication Modules: RS-232, RS-485, RS-422 communication modules. FX3 series CC-Link master modules can also be connected.
• Safety Extension Modules: Easily implement safety control for small-scale equipment by connecting safety main module (FX5-SF-MU4T5) to FX5U/FX5UC/FX5UJ CPU modules. No programming required—simply select one of nine built-in programs via rotary switch. Compliant with SIL3 (IEC 61508) and PL e (EN ISO 13849-1 Category 4). Safety inputs can be expanded with FX5-SF-8DI4 modules.

Engineering Environment

Programs and parameters are configured using GX Works3 engineering software, which provides an integrated environment for system design, programming, debugging, and maintenance. GX Works3 significantly improves parameter setting efficiency and supports multiple programming languages including ladder, SFC, ST, and FBD/LD.

Certifications and Compliance

The MELSEC iQ-F Series conforms to international standards including UL, cUL, CE (EMC/LVD/RoHS), KC (EMC), and major ship classification standards (LR, NK, DNV, ABS, RINA, BV, KR).

Applications

From standalone machine control to networked system applications, the MELSEC iQ-F Series is ideal for packaging machines, material handling, assembly lines, small-scale production equipment, and IoT-enabled smart manufacturing environments.