Panasonic FP-X series PLC

The Panasonic FP-X series is a compact high-performance PLC equipped with a 32-bit RISC processor, featuring a basic instruction speed of 0.32 μ s/step, a maximum of 382 I/O points, built-in 3/4 axis positioning, up to 3 communication channels (including Ethernet), multi-point PID, and independent annotation memory. It supports 8 expansion units and FP0 expansion adaptation, covering 18 hosts, 9 extensions, and 16 function cards, and is suitable for multi scenario automation control, balancing high speed, large capacity, high expansion, and data security.

​Core performance

Processing speed: Adopting a 32-bit RISC processor, the basic instruction execution speed is 0.32 μ s/step, and the program scanning time for 5000 steps is * * ≤ 2ms * *.

Program memory: 16k steps for C14 models, 32k steps for C30/C60 models, equipped with independent annotation memory, does not occupy program space.

High speed counting: The transistor type supports 8-channel single-phase/4-channel two-phase high-speed counting, up to 100kHz.

I/O and expansion capabilities

I/O points: Maximum of 300 points per machine, up to 382 points with expansion card and FP0 adapter.

Expansion rule: One host can connect up to 8 expansion units, only one E16 can be connected in series, and E30 requires an external power supply.

Compatibility Expansion: Up to 3 FP0 expansion units can be connected through the AFPX EFP0 adapter.

Positioning control function

Model axis number, pulse frequency

C14 transistor type 3-axis CHO/1:100kHz, CH2: 20kHz

C30/C60 transistor type 4-axis CHO/1:100kHz, CH2/3:20kHz

Support trapezoidal control, origin regression, 2-axis linear interpolation, and can simultaneously control 2 sets of XY platforms.

Communication and Network

Communication port: Up to 3 channels can be used simultaneously (communication card+tool port).

Mainstream protocols: Ethernet (AFPX COM5), Modbus RTU, PLC Link, MEWTOCOL COM.

Networking capability: PLC Link supports 16 interconnected devices with a transmission distance of 1200m; Modbus supports 99 multi master station networking devices.

Control and safety functions

PID control: supports multi-point high-precision PID, 32 μ s/loop, and provides PI-D/I-PD dual-mode.

Data Security: Supports program upload prohibition, 8-digit uppercase and lowercase alphanumeric passwords, and prevents illegal copying.

Storage and Clock: Flash ROM does not require battery to save programs, AFPX MRTC card comes with real-time clock.

Product lineup

Control host (18 models): 14/30/60 points, relay/NPN/PNP output, AC/DC power supply.

Expansion unit (9 models): E16/E30 series, relay/transistor output.

Function cards (16 types): digital I/O, pulse I/O, analog, communication, clock, storage.

Accessories: Backup battery, expansion cable, programming cable, terminal block.

Software and Physical Characteristics

Programming software: FPWIN Pro, compliant with IEC 61131-3, supports 5 programming languages.

Physical interface: C30/C60 comes standard with a USB port for direct connection to a computer; C14 has no USB.

Environmental specifications: Operating temperature of 0-55 ℃, humidity of 10-95% RH, vibration and impact resistance, in compliance with EN61131-2.

Key questions and answers

Question 1: How to achieve the maximum number of I/O points for FP-X series PLC and what are the expansion limitations?

Answer: Connecting 8 expansion units on a single machine can reach up to 300 points; Paired with a function card and FP0 adapter, it can be expanded up to 382 points. Restrictions: E16 units cannot be connected in series with multiple units, E30 requires an external power supply, and the total length of the expansion cable is ≤ 160cm.

Question 2: What are the core advantages of FP-X in positioning control, and what are the differences among different hosts?

Answer: The advantage is that the transistor type host has built-in multi axis pulse output, without the need for positioning modules, and achieves multi axis control at low cost. Difference: C14 has built-in 3-axis, C30/C60 has built-in 4-axis; The maximum output frequency is 100kHz, supporting 2-axis linear interpolation.

Question 3: What communication methods does FP-X support and how many communication channels can be used simultaneously?

Answer: Supports Ethernet, RS232C, RS485/422, Modbus RTU, PLC Link, MEWTOCOL. By using a dual port communication card and a tool port, it is possible to simultaneously use 3 communication channels to meet the networking needs of multiple devices.