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Industrial Automation & Network Hardware
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Mastering Automation: Your Essential Mitsubishi FX Series Product Selection Companion

May 26, 2025

In today’s fast-paced industrial world, automation is no longer a luxury it’s a necessity. It drives productivity, enhances precision, and gives businesses the competitive edge they need. Among the top-tier automation solutions on the market, the Mitsubishi FX Series stands out as a powerful and reliable choice for industries seeking compact, flexible, and scalable control systems.

This guide is your comprehensive companion for navigating the Mitsubishi FX Series—from understanding its core features to selecting the right model for your specific needs. Whether you're upgrading an existing system or starting from scratch, you'll find valuable insights to inform your decision.

What Is the Mitsubishi FX Series?

The Mitsubishi FX Series is a line of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) designed by Mitsubishi Electric, a global leader in industrial automation. Launched in 1981, the FX Series was one of the first compact PLCs, and it has since evolved to meet the growing demands of modern automation environments.

Key Highlights:

  • Integrated I/O in compact units

  • Scalable from 30 to 384 I/O points

  • Multiple memory configurations (2kStep to 64kStep)

  • Expansion via communication, analog, and positioning modules

  • Support for programming in Ladder, Instruction List, and SFC

FX Series Product Lineup: A Closer Look

1. FX3U – High-Performance Powerhouse

Designed for demanding applications, the FX3U delivers high-speed control and extensive expandability. With a dual system bus architecture, it supports up to 384 I/O points and includes features like:

  • Built-in analog, communication, and positioning control

  • 64,000-step memory

  • Fast instruction processing

  • Support for CC-Link and AnyWireASLINK networks

2. FX3UC – Ultra-Compact and Modular

When space is limited but performance is non-negotiable, the FX3UC shines. It matches the capabilities of the FX3U in a smaller form:

  • Modular design for easy expansion

  • 256 local I/O points, 384 with remote I/O

  • EN and UL/cUL compliant

3. FX3G – Versatile and Cost-Efficient

Ideal for mid-range control applications, the FX3G blends performance and simplicity:

  • Up to 256 I/O points

  • Dual system-bus for smooth data handling

  • 32,000-step memory

  • Two operating modes for flexible instruction processing

4. FX3GC – Connector-Type, Space-Saving Design

A connector-based variant of the FX3G, the FX3GC is built for reduced wiring complexity and installation time:

  • Compact size with integrated I/O

  • 128–256 I/O point support

  • All-in-one CPU, power, and I/O

  • Fast instruction speeds

5. FX3GE – Ethernet-Ready and Feature-Rich

For users needing built-in Ethernet and analog I/O, the FX3GE is the go-to:

  • Integrated communication and analog functions

  • 32,000-step memory

  • Seamless integration into existing networks

6. FX3S – Simple and Affordable Entry Model

Targeted at basic automation tasks, the FX3S offers a cost-effective solution with minimal complexity:

  • Supports up to 30 I/O points

  • Maintenance-free, battery-less design

  • 4,000-step program memory

  • Ideal for compact, standalone applications

Core Capabilities of FX Series PLCs

The strength of the FX Series lies in its ability to adapt to diverse automation needs:

Analog Control

All models can be enhanced for analog I/O using expansion boards or special adapters ideal for temperature, pressure, and flow control.

High-Speed Counters

Perfect for real-time applications like encoder feedback and pulse counting, with models supporting up to 8 high-speed counters.

Serial Communication

FX PLCs interface easily with barcode scanners, PCs, HMIs, and other PLCs using RS232, RS422, or RS485 standards.

Networking and Data Exchange

Support for CC-Link, PROFIBUS, MODBUS, and Ethernet allows seamless integration into existing automation systems.

Inverter and Servo Control

Built-in support for Mitsubishi FREQROL inverters and servo control via pulse output simplifies motion applications.

Data Logging and Management

Models like the FX3U/FX3UC can automate data logging to CF cards in CSV format, enabling easy integration with higher-level systems.

HMI & Visualization

Compatible with Mitsubishi's GOT2000 series HMIs for real-time monitoring and control with intuitive touchscreen interfaces.

Why Choose Mitsubishi FX Series?

User-Friendly

Effortless setup and straightforward programming reduce development time and make the FX Series accessible even for less experienced users.

Cost-Effective

With a high performance-to-price ratio, the FX Series is a smart investment for both small-scale and enterprise-level automation projects.

Versatile

Modular and expandable, these PLCs can grow with your business needs—from basic control to complex networking and motion control systems.

Trusted Worldwide

With over 10 million CPUs sold globally, Mitsubishi’s FX Series has earned industry recognition for reliability, innovation, and quality.

Conclusion: Your Partner in Automation Success

Whether you're automating a packaging line, managing HVAC systems, or building a smart factory, the Mitsubishi FX Series provides the power, flexibility, and reliability to meet your goals.

By understanding the capabilities of each model FX3U, FX3UC, FX3G, FX3GC, FX3GE, and FX3S you can confidently select the right controller for your application. Backed by global support and continuous innovation, Mitsubishi’s FX Series remains a cornerstone of efficient and scalable industrial automation.

Embrace the future of automation. Master the FX Series.

 

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