Mitsubishi Electric FX5-40SSC-S MELSEC iQ-F Series Simple Motion Module

Description

Facilitating high-speed, multi-axis synchronization within the MELSEC iQ-F automation platform, the Mitsubishi Electric FX5-40SSC-S is a dedicated 4-axis Simple Motion module. This module integrates seamless SSCNET III/H fiber optic network connectivity to enable complex positioning, synchronous control, and speed-torque configurations directly from an FX5U or FX5UC PLC system. Engineered for high-speed machine control, it delivers an ultra-precise operation cycle of 1.777 ms, making it highly effective for applications requiring synchronized servo motor orchestration without overloading the main CPU.

Features

• Multi-Axis Synchronization: Coordinates up to 4 axes (including virtual servo amplifier axes) for synchronous and continuous path operations.
• Advanced Interpolation: Supports multi-axis linear interpolation (up to 4 axes) and circular interpolation (2 axes) for complex path tracking.
• High-Speed Communication: Utilizes the reliable SSCNET III/H synchronous network, ensuring immunity to electromagnetic noise.
• Battery-Less Maintenance: Saves all parameters, positioning profiles, and block start data directly to non-volatile flash ROM.
• Diverse Motion Profiles: Supports PTP (Point-To-Point) control, trajectory control, speed-torque control, and bidirectional speed-position switching.
• Smoothing Controls: Integrated trapezoidal and S-curve acceleration/deceleration curves with configurable backlash compensation.

Applications

• Packaging Equipment: Ideal for multi-axis cartooning, sealing, and continuous web handling lines.
• Material Handling: Controls high-speed pick-and-place gantry robots and synchronized sorting conveyers.
• Automated Assembly: Executes exact positioning for indexing tables, parts insertion, and screw-fastening systems.
• Labeling Machinery: Coordinates master/slave axis relations for real-time speed adaptation in labeling operations.

Technical Specifications Table

Connections and Interfaces

The FX5-40SSC-S utilizes dedicated connection ports for high-reliability optical network interfacing and direct integration with local external signals:

Empirical Engineering Insights

Alternative Models & Compatibility

When migrating legacy systems, note that the FX5-40SSC-S is specifically matched with the FX5U/FX5UC hardware architecture and programmed using the MELSOFT GX Works3 environment. For older FX3U systems requiring SSCNET linkages, the older FX3U-20SSC-H was standard; however, the FX5-40SSC-S represents a generational upgrade with an improved 1.777 ms scan rate and enhanced virtual axis features. Keep in mind that direct program migration requires checking axis allocation profiles within GX Works3 parameters.

Application Pitfalls & Engineering Notes

SSCNET III/H fiber optic links must be handled with care inside industrial enclosures. Bending optical cables tighter than a 25 mm radius will induce optical signal loss, leading to recurring network disconnect faults (often showing up as a communication loss alarm on the PLC/HMI). Ensure ample room is allowed inside the panel layout for cable routing paths and that absolute cleanliness is maintained during fiber optic plug insertion.

Commissioning & Wiring Tips

Forced stop (EMI) inputs must be wired using a normally closed (NC) electrical contact configuration to fail safe. If an external EMI loop is not deployed, the input must be bypassed or software-disabled in the GX Works3 parameter tree to prevent module startup lock. Ensure the dust protective caps remain firmly fitted on the optical terminals until the instant the optical cables are physically connected to prevent industrial dust contamination of the internal optical receivers.

Installation Guidelines

1. 1 Mount the module onto a standard 35mm DIN rail next to the FX5 PLC main unit or adjacent expansion modules. Ensure the module hooks onto the rail firmly.
2. 2 Connect the extension ribbon cable from the previous module or CPU to the FX5-40SSC-S internal bus interface port, ensuring the connection is securely locked.
3. 3 Insert the SSCNET III/H optical fiber cable directly into the CN1 connector port until an audible click indicates positive engagement. Maintain the required bend radius.
4. 4 Wire the front external signal terminal block (FLS, RLS, EMI, DOG) with properly shielded 24V DC control wiring, ensuring shields are grounded at a single, low-impedance ground point.