Mitsubishi Electric Q173HCPU MELSEC Q Series Motion Controller

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Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Electric
Product No.: Q173HCPU
Country of origin:United States
Product Type: Motion Controller Modules
Payment: T/T, Western Union
Weight: 3000g
Dimensions: 250 mm x 180 mm x 110 mm
Shipping port: Xiamen
Warranty: 12 months

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Description

Optimizing synchronization across multiple axes in complex machinery, the Mitsubishi Electric Q173HCPU coordinates up to 32 independent servo axes within a single system. This high-density motion CPU module integrates directly onto the standard MELSEC Q Series multi-CPU backplane, sharing high-speed data transmission buses with host PLC modules to minimize processing overhead. Utilizing the noise-resistant, high-speed fiber-optic SSCNET III network, it provides reliable closed-loop control over servo drives and motors, preventing communication latency even in high-electromagnetic-noise environments. Designed to slot in directly to the right of the primary PLC CPU, the controller utilizes a clear base cover for status visualization and is structurally built to withstand heavy vibrational environments when panel-mounted.

Features

32-Axis Control Capability: Manages up to 32 physical axes of servo amplifiers via high-speed optical fiber linkages.
Multi-CPU Architecture Support: Configurable alongside up to three additional Q Series CPUs for decentralized load distribution between control logic and motion trajectories.
SSCNET III Integration: Dual high-speed optical ports provide reliable, noise-immune communications over fiber-optic cabling.
Vibration-Resistant Design: Accommodates panel installation with unit-fixing screws to ensure connection integrity in high-vibration applications.
Clear Cover Interface: Transparent protective housing permits immediate inspection of diagnostic status indicators and interface ports.

Applications

High-speed pick-and-place electronic assembly systems.
Synchronized web-handling, packaging, and printing systems.
Multi-axis gantry robots and industrial Cartesian systems.
Complex automated sorting and bottling lines requiring precise timing.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Value / Specification
Manufacturer	Mitsubishi Electric
Model Code	Q173HCPU
Series	MELSEC Q Series
Control Axes	Up to 32 axes
Communication Protocol	SSCNET III (Fiber-Optic Network)
Mounting Compatibility	DIN Rail (with adapter) or Panel Direct Mounting (recommended for high-vibration)
Multi-CPU Placement	CPU slot No. 2 or later (always to the right of PLC CPU)
Empty CPU Slot Setting	Not allowed between active CPU modules
Operating Temperature Range	0 to 55 degC
Storage Temperature Range	-25 to 75 degC
Shipping Weight (Calculated)	3.0 kg
Package Dimensions (Calculated)	250 mm x 180 mm x 110 mm

Connections and Interfaces

Connector / Terminal	Interface Type	Functional Assignment
CN1 Connector	Optical Transceiver	SSCNET III communication loop for Axes 1 to 16
CN2 Connector	Optical Transceiver	SSCNET III communication loop for Axes 17 to 32
EMI Terminal	Discrete I/O Connection	Forced stop (External Interlock) input terminal
P1/P2/P3 Ports	Serial / Encoder Port	Manual Pulse Generator / External synchronous encoder inputs

Empirical Engineering Insights

Alternative Models & Compatibility

When replacing an older Q173CPUN module, be aware that the Q173HCPU transitions from the copper-based SSCNET to the fiber-optic SSCNET III system. You must upgrade all associated cabling to optical fiber (MR-J3BUS or compatible) and ensure that the connected servo drives (e.g., MR-J3-B or MR-J4-B series in J3-compatibility mode) are fully compatible with SSCNET III protocols. Furthermore, check the Operating System software (SV13/SV22) programmed within the module; mismatching OS versions with the host GX Works2 / MT Developer2 configurations will trigger a CPU verification fault upon system boot.

Application Pitfalls & Engineering Notes

A common issue during multi-CPU configuration is allocating empty slots. The Q173HCPU cannot be separated from the host PLC CPU (CPU No.1) by an empty slot on the base unit. In addition, dust or microscopic scratches on the optical fiber connectors (CN1/CN2) are the primary causes of transient communication drops (alarm code AL.37). Always ensure the protective rubber caps remain fitted to unused optical ports and clean fiber ends with designated optical cleaning swabs prior to insertion.

Commissioning & Wiring Tips

When routing the fiber-optic cables, enforce a minimum bending radius of 25 mm. Exceeding this limit causes signal attenuation, leading to intermittent link losses. During software commissioning in MT Developer2, ensure that the multi-CPU shared memory configurations align exactly between the PLC program and the Motion SFC code to prevent parameter overlap errors.

Installation Guidelines

CRITICAL WARNING: HIGH VOLTAGE & ESD HAZARD

Isolate all external power sources feeding the base unit and connected servo controllers before handling the module. Retained electrical charges in servo capacitors pose a lethal shock hazard. Wait a minimum of 10 minutes post-power-down before disconnecting cabling or extracting the module. Always wear a grounded wrist strap to prevent static discharge to exposed internal circuitry.

Verify that the main base unit power supply is turned off. Confirm that the module guide slots are free of dirt or particulate matter.

Engage the lower positioning projection of the Q173HCPU into the base unit's module fixing hole, keeping the module perpendicular to the backplane.

Push the top of the module firmly toward the backplane until the upper module lock clicks securely. If operating in high-vibration environments, secure the top of the module with mounting screws (tightening torque: 0.36 to 0.48 N-m).

Remove the protective covers from the CN1 and CN2 optical ports, and firmly connect the SSCNET III fiber-optic cables until they click into place. Keep the minimum bending radius at 25 mm or higher.

Key Features:

#MELSEC Q Series #Motion Controller Modules

Can the Q173HCPU run independently on a base board without a PLC CPU?

No. The Q173HCPU is designed as part of a multi-CPU system. It must be installed alongside a master PLC CPU (such as a Q-series Universal model) which handles the system initialization, diagnostic oversight, and primary bus configurations.

What is the primary difference between the Q173HCPU and the older Q173CPUN modules?

The Q173HCPU utilizes the fiber-optic SSCNET III bus for noise-free, high-speed optical communications, whereas the legacy Q173CPUN uses the copper-based SSCNET interface. Upgrading requires converting the communications cables to fiber-optic MR-J3BUS units.

How do you clear the AL.37 communication fault code?

The AL.37 fault indicates a fiber-optic communications failure. Verify the minimum bending radius of the fiber-optic cables (25 mm), clean the optical connector tips of any dust or contaminants, and verify that unused optical ports are sealed with rubber caps.

What software package is required to program this motion CPU?

Programming and OS installation (such as the SV13 or SV22 operating system) must be done using Mitsubishi Electric's MT Developer2 software package, which integrates into the wider Melsoft engineering suite.

Global Express Shipping

Standard Delivery: 4-6 Business Days via DHL, FedEx, and UPS.
Express Dispatch: Same-day dispatch for in-stock orders placed before 2:00 PM (GMT+8).
Worldwide Coverage: Serving over 150 countries, including rapid delivery to Saudi Arabia and UAE.

Returns & Warranty

30-Day Guarantee: Returns accepted for in-stock products in original, factory-sealed packaging.
12-Month Warranty: Every industrial component is backed by our professional technical warranty.

Orders are processed and delivered Monday-Friday (excluding public holidays).

For full eligibility, restocking fees, and international return details, please view our official Refund & Return Policy .

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Mitsubishi Electric Q173HCPU MELSEC Q Series Motion Controller