2025-05-01
In the realm of industrial automation, selecting the right Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a pivotal decision that directly influences the efficiency and reliability of operations. Omron’s CJ2 Series and Mitsubishi’s FX Series represent two of the most widely adopted micro-to-mid-range PLCs, offering robust capabilities tailored for various industrial environments. This comparative analysis explores both series in-depth, evaluating technical specifications, features, and practical performance across voltage requirements, current ratings, communication protocols, environmental endurance, processing speed, memory, size, display functions, certifications, cybersecurity, and programming compatibility.
Voltage Requirements
Omron CJ2 PLCs support a wide input voltage range including 100-240V AC and 24V DC, allowing flexibility for deployment in diverse applications. Mitsubishi FX Series PLCs also accommodate 100-240V AC and offer 24V DC modules such as the FX3U-32DP-IF for systems utilizing low-voltage DC power.
Operational and Rated Currents
Omron CJ2 Series typically operates between 0.2 to 0.7A, with modules like CJ2M-CPU13 drawing about 0.2A. Input modules (e.g., CJ1W-ID261) use 7.5mA per point. Mitsubishi FX Series ranges from 0.2 to 1.0A, with FX3U-32MT/ES modules offering 0.5A per output at 24V DC. CPUs like the FX3U-48M run at around 0.6A.
Communication Protocols and Compatibility
Omron CJ2 PLCs excel in protocol support, offering Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus RTU/TCP, Profinet, and DeviceNet. They are compatible with a wide range of third-party and Omron devices. Communication modules such as CJ2M-CPU3-EIP ensure seamless network integration.
Mitsubishi FX Series PLCs support RS-232, RS-485, CC-Link, and Modbus RTU/TCP via modules like FX3U-485ADP-MB and FX3U-ENET-ADP. While limited in protocol range compared to Omron, they integrate efficiently with Mitsubishi hardware like HMIs and servo systems.
Environmental Specifications
Both series function between 0°C to 55°C and 5-95% humidity (non-condensing). Omron modules like CJ2M-CPU3A allow temperature regulation, while Mitsubishi offers the FX3U-4DA-ADP analog module for environmental control.
Processing Speed and Storage
Omron CJ2M-CPU34 delivers high-speed performance with execution times of 0.04µs per basic instruction. Memory ranges from 5K to 256K words, expandable with SD cards (1GB-32GB) via CJ2M-MD261 module.
Mitsubishi FX3U offers 0.065ms per basic instruction, with memory between 2K and 64K words. The FX3U-FLROM-16 module supports SD cards from 512MB to 8GB for program backup and logging.
Dimensions and Display Functions
Omron CJ2M CPUs measure approximately 90mm x 80mm x 75mm, with modules like CJ2W-AD081-V1 sized at 37mm x 90mm x 75mm. Basic LED indicators are standard, with optional display enhancements via CJ2M-MD211.
Mitsubishi FX3U-16MR/ES modules are similarly compact (100mm x 90mm x 75mm), supporting LED diagnostics. External HMI panels like GT2104-RTBD can be integrated for full display capability.
Certifications and Compliance
Both PLC series comply with CE, UL, and RoHS standards, ensuring quality, safety, and environmental responsibility. Mitsubishi additionally conforms to WEEE directives.
Cybersecurity Features
Omron CJ2 leads in security with role-based access, data encryption, and secure communication protocols. The CJ2M-CPU31-EIP offers enhanced protection for data-sensitive applications. Mitsubishi FX Series includes password protection and user access controls, with the FX3U-485-BD offering basic security enhancements.
Programming Languages
Both series support Ladder Logic (LD), Structured Text (ST), Function Block Diagram (FBD), and Sequential Function Chart (SFC). Omron's CJ2 modules like CJ2H-CPU65-EIP utilize advanced languages for temperature control, motion control, and networking. Mitsubishi's FX3U modules support these languages across digital, analog, and high-speed I/O applications.
Final Thoughts
Omron CJ2 PLCs are ideal for applications requiring diverse communication, high processing speed, robust cybersecurity, and flexible voltage compatibility. Mitsubishi FX PLCs are well-suited for compact, cost-effective systems, particularly where compatibility with Mitsubishi ecosystem devices is a priority.
Your final choice depends on the application’s complexity, network requirements, budget, and need for security or integration with existing equipment. Both series provide powerful tools for industrial automation, shaping the future of smart manufacturing environments.
Contact PLG Automation today:
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271