Expandable and flexible modular design

The FX family includes a very wide choice of basic and expansion units which makes it possible to configure demand-oriented and tailor-made systems.

Depending on the application and the control requirements, one can choose the compact and economic FX1S series, the expandable FX1N series or the more powerful FX3U(C) series. Both the FX1N and FX2N(C) series are good choices for plant installations since they can be expanded as needed for the application.

Tailor-made systems can be configured by combining modules from many different categories. All the modules are galvanically insulated with optical couplers for maximum safety.

Digital I/O modules

For many different signal types with relay or transistor outputs.

Analog I/O modules

For processing of current/voltage signals and temperature recording, with the capability of directly connecting PT100 sensors and thermal elements.

Positioning modules

Speed calculation modules with connection facilities for pulse sensors and positioning modules for servo and stepping motors.

Communications modules

Interface modules with RS232/RS422/RS485 interfaces for connection to peripheral equipment and communications links to other PLC systems. Network modules for PROFIBUS, ASi, CANopen, DeviceNet, Ethernet and for configuring Mitsubishi networks.

Digital and specialised modules - configuration

The ability to use digital and specialised modules depends on which central unit is used in the system. When calculating the maximum number of specialised modules in a system, account must be taken of both the number of digital modules and the maximum number of specialised modules that can be used. The following table defines the number of modules that can be used for each system type.

Central unit system limits:

• FX1S Free-standing PLC system with 10/14/20 or 30 inputs and outputs; no specialised modules, one function card
• FX1N PLC system with max. 128 inputs and outputs; max. 2 specialised modules (8 if an FX2N expansion unit is used), one function card
• FX2N PLC system with max. 256 inputs and outputs; max. 8 specialised modules, one function card
• FX3U(C) PLC system with max. 256 inputs and outputs; max. 4 specialised modules

Open networks

The FX series can communicate in open standardised networks such as Ethernet and Profibus DP, or in its own MELSEC network.

Profibus DP

Fast and easy connection into I/O modules or PLC systems as a slave in the Profibus DP network  Data transfer speeds of up to 12 Mbit/s.

CC-Link

CC-Link is a network for the control and I/O levels. It has functions for program and data transfer, and compact PLC systems can communicate via the same network. Modules from third party suppliers can also be connected. Data transfer speeds up to 10 Mbit/s.

ASi

The Actuator Sensor Interface is a field bus for the simplest sensors. The ASi bus is a twin-wire connection for both data transfer and feeding of components.

CANopen

CANopen is a cost-effective solution to integrate equipment at the I/O level.

DeviceNet

DeviceNet is based on the same network structure as CANopen and MELSEC, a compact PLC-system can communicate as a slave in DeviceNet.

Ethernet

Ready for immediate operation with the universal standard TCP/IP protocol. Communication by Ethernet between a PC and a PLC provides full access to process data, uploading and downloading of programs and monitoring and fault tracing. A cost-effective alternative at the control level. Thanks to simple configuration commissioning is rapid, even for complex applications.

MELSEC networks

MELSEC I/O Links

Permit decentralised configuration with local I/O modules directly installed out on the machinery. Communication takes place via twisted pair wiring. MELSEC I/O Links can be built up in a tree structure.

MELSEC FX Peer-to-Peer (PPN)

PPN design permits a network with up to eight FX1S, FX1N and FX2N systems to be built up. The maximum range is 500 metres (50 metres with a function card). A standard twisted pair cable can be used for communication.

Simple installation and management

Management and installation of the modules is very easy. All the modules have built-in DIN adapters for instant installation on DIN rails. If desired, modules can also be screwed down onto flat surfaces, except for the FX3U(C) series. In the FX1N and FX2N series all connections between the central unit’s system bus and the expansion units/specialised modules are carried out using ribbon cable. In the  FX3U(C) series the modules are interconnected with built-in connectors placed on the sides of the modules.

Interconnections

All external connections to FX1S, FX1N and FX2N are via the terminal blocks on the modules. A terminal protector protects the entire terminal block against short circuits and accidental interference. On the FX1N the terminal blocks are detachable on all basic units. The FX2N has detachable terminal blocks on all basic units that have 32 or more inputs and outputs. The FX1S do not have detachable terminal blocks.

All basic units and digital expansion units for the FX3U(C) have plug connections. Connections are made with prepared cabling in various lengths, to external terminal block modules for the inputs and outputs.

Globally classified

Several models in the FX series have marine approval, such as with Lloyds, German Lloyds, ABS, RINA and Det Norske Veritas, which makes this series a foregone choice in marine applications. Added to this, meeting the CE Low Voltage and EMC regulations also guarantees secure use in demanding environments.