Mitsubishi MDS-D vs. MDS-C1: Which Drive Suits Your Precision Needs?

When it comes to precision automation, selecting the right servo drive can make or break system performance. Mitsubishi’s MDS-D and MDS-C1 series both offer dependable motion control, but they serve very different levels of industrial need.

The MDS-D is engineered for high-performance, multi-axis applications with advanced features, high-resolution feedback, and robust safety integration. The MDS-C1, meanwhile, is optimized for cost-effective, mid-range automation tasks where moderate accuracy and standard safety are sufficient.

This comparison highlights the key differences to help you decide which Mitsubishi drive best fits your application.

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 Voltage Range

MDS-D

• Voltage Range: 200V–400V AC

• Ideal for medium to high-voltage applications with more stable power inputs

• Supports larger loads and demanding operations

MDS-C1

• Voltage Range: 200V class

• Designed for moderate voltage systems

• Well-suited for compact machinery and general-purpose applications

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 Output Power Capacity

MDS-D

• Power Range: 1.5kW to 30kW

• Supports high-torque, high-speed operations

• Perfect for multi-axis CNC machines, robotics, and automotive production

• Example: MDS-D-SPJ3 offers dynamic control in harsh environments

MDS-C1

• Power Range: 0.5kW to 7kW

• Tailored for small to mid-sized equipment

• Commonly used in packaging machines and printing presses

• Example: MDS-C1-V2 balances control with energy efficiency

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 Current Rating

MDS-D

• Range: 5A to 80A

• Supports high-current demand for low-speed torque and fast acceleration

• Ideal for heavy-duty CNCs and robotic systems

MDS-C1

• Range: 3A to 25A

• Matches the needs of conveyors and lighter equipment

• Efficient under moderate load with MDS-C1-V1 modules

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 Precision Control (Resolution)

MDS-D

• Up to 22-bit encoder resolution

• Enables extreme positioning accuracy

• Perfect for multi-axis synchronization and high-precision motion

MDS-C1

• 16-bit encoder resolution

• Sufficient for standard industrial tasks

• Reliable for applications without ultra-fine resolution demands

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 Speed Control & Response Time

MDS-D

• Response Frequency: 1.5 kHz

• Delivers rapid speed adjustments in dynamic environments

• Example: MDS-D-SVJ2 excels in high-speed manufacturing lines

MDS-C1

• Response Frequency: 1 kHz

• Effective for moderate-speed control

• Example: MDS-C1-SP meets typical automation timing needs

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 Feedback System Compatibility

MDS-D

• Compatible with high-resolution absolute encoders

• Maintains position memory after power loss

• Enables high-level multi-turn axis synchronization

• Example: MDS-D-SVJ3

MDS-C1

• Uses incremental encoders

• Lacks absolute positioning recovery

• Ideal for systems where retained position memory is not critical

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 Communication & Networking

MDS-D

• Supports Ethernet, CC-Link IE Field, and SSCNET III/H

• Designed for real-time, multi-axis synchronization

• High-speed communication for complex machine integration

MDS-C1

• Supports SSCNET III and RS-485

• Suitable for standard fieldbus integration

• Best used in simpler control networks with fewer devices

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 Safety Features

MDS-D

• Complies with SIL3 safety standards

• Features include:

  • Safe Torque Off (STO)

  • Safe Speed Monitor (SSM)

  • Safe Stop 1 (SS1)

• Example: MDS-D-SVJ2 delivers full-featured motion safety

MDS-C1

• Basic safety support, including:

  • Emergency stop

  • Safe positioning functions

• Suitable for non-critical safety environments

• Example: MDS-C1-V2

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 Which Drive Should You Choose?

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 Final Thoughts

Choosing between the Mitsubishi MDS-D and MDS-C1 depends on your system’s required power capacity, precision, network integration, and safety compliance.

• The MDS-D delivers top-tier accuracy, multi-axis performance, and advanced safety for complex, high-speed environments.

• The MDS-C1 offers a balanced, budget-friendly solution for standard industrial tasks with dependable motion control.

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Shop Mitsubishi Drives at PLG Automation

PLG Automation carries both MDS-D and MDS-C1 series drives and components. Our sales and technical teams can help you match your application with the right drive for peak performance and precision.

📧 Email: sales@plgautomation.com
📞 Phone: 800-906-9271