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Industrial Automation & Network Hardware
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The Powerhouse of Automation: Unveiling the Unmatched Capabilities of Mitsubishi MELSEC iQ-F series PLCs

May 25, 2025

In the dynamic world of industrial automation, precision, efficiency, and reliability are paramount. Enter the Mitsubishi iQ-F series PLC, a powerful and versatile programmable logic controller system that has been making waves in the automation industry. As manufacturing processes become increasingly complex, the iQ-F series PLC offers a comprehensive solution designed to streamline operations, enhance control capabilities, and drive productivity to new heights.

Overview of the iQ-F Series PLC

Mitsubishi’s iQ-F series products are equipped with cutting-edge technology tailored for diverse industrial applications. Its modular design allows users to build customized systems with a variety of CPU, I/O, analog, safety, and communication modules.

At the core of the iQ-F system is the CPU module, which features high-speed processing and extensive functionality. I/O modules simplify integration with user-friendly wiring and support analog, digital, and high-speed inputs/outputs. Safety modules ensure compliance with international standards, while high-speed counting modules provide exceptional accuracy for motion control tasks.

Mitsubishi complements the iQ-F series with an array of accessories including power supplies, battery backups, and bus converters for system flexibility.

CPU Modules

The iQ-F CPU lineup includes four core models:

  • FX5U: The flagship model offering up to 512 control points, 128k steps of program memory, built-in Ethernet, analog I/O, and support for four-axis positioning with 200 kHz pulse outputs.

  • FX5UC: A compact variant with similar specs as the FX5U, including high-speed counters and positioning functions. Compatible with FX5 and FX3 expansion modules.

  • FX5UJ: A cost-effective option supporting up to 256 points, 48k program steps, and built-in USB and RS-485 ports. It offers three-axis positioning and high-speed counting capabilities.

  • FX5S: Designed for IoT integration, this compact module supports up to 60 points with 48k program memory, built-in USB, and four-axis positioning at 100 kHz.

Safety Extension Modules

Safety is integral to automation. The FX5-SF-MU4T5 and FX5-SF-8DI4 safety modules meet SIL3/PL e standards. These modules integrate easily with FX5 CPU models, eliminating redundant wiring and simplifying safety system installation. They support nine built-in safety functions accessible via rotary dial.

High-Speed Counting Modules

To manage rapid events and motions, Mitsubishi offers dedicated high-speed counter modules:

  • FX3U-2HC: A two-channel module supporting 200 kHz pulse inputs with multiple edge count modes.

  • FX5-16ET/ES-H & FX5-16ET/ESS-H: Input/output pulse modules offering two 200 kHz channels, high-speed counters, pulse catch, and general input functions.

I/O Modules

Mitsubishi’s I/O modules provide seamless communication between the PLC and field devices:

  • Powered I/O Modules: Available in AC and DC versions with 32 total I/O points.

  • Input Modules: 7 models ranging from 8 to 32 points.

  • Output Modules: 13 models supporting sink, source, or relay configurations.

  • Combined I/O Modules: Configurations of 8/8 or 16/16 I/O points available across 7 sub-models.

Analog Modules

Analog modules expand the iQ-F’s control into environments requiring variable signal monitoring and output:

  • Analog Input: Modules like FX5-4AD, FX5-8AD, and FX3U-4AD offer up to 8 channels for voltage, current, and temperature signals.

  • Analog Output: Models such as FX5-4DA and FX3U-4DA deliver precise voltage/current control.

  • Temperature Modules: Designed for thermocouple and RTD inputs, options include FX5-4AD-TC-ADP and FX5-4LC.

Motion and Positioning Control Modules

These modules empower high-performance motion control:

  • Motion Modules: FX5-40SSC and FX5-80SSC models support 4 to 8 axis control with interpolation, synchronous, cam, and torque control.

  • Positioning Modules: FX5-20PG series provides up to 5Mpps for multi-axis applications.

  • High-Speed Pulse I/O: FX5-16ET/ES-H models ensure accurate pulse data acquisition and device control.

Network and Communication Modules

  • FX5-CCLGN-MS: Enables CC-Link IE Field Network connectivity for the FX5U. With 1 Gbps communication speed, it supports real-time integration of servo drives, I/O modules, and more.

Additionally, Mitsubishi provides SD cards, batteries, terminal blocks, and bus conversion modules to enhance system flexibility and resilience.

Conclusion

The Mitsubishi iQ-F series PLCs represent a powerhouse in industrial automation, combining high-speed processing, extensive modularity, and robust safety and motion control features. From simple applications to highly complex systems, the iQ-F series is engineered to deliver unmatched performance, scalability, and reliability for the modern automation landscape.

 

For more information, contact PLG Automation:
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271