Compact, expandable Mitsubishi FX3U PLC with built‑in Ethernet, analog I/O, high‑speed pulses—ideal for industrial weighing and motion control.
Product Overview
The Mitsubishi FX3U‑32MT/48MT programmable logic controller combines a robust CPU, Ethernet port, dual RS‑485, six analog inputs and two analog outputs for precision weighing and process control. It offers 32 or 48 digital I/O points, eight high‑speed pulse outputs at up to 100 kHz, stepper‐motor positioning, real‐time clock and memory for 64 K steps. Exchangeable expansion boards (USB, RS‑232C, RS‑422/485, CC‑Link, etc.) let you tailor communications and specialty functions. Its durable design meets UL/cUL/CE standards, suited to packaging, food, chemical and textile automation.
How to Use
- Mount the FX3U on a DIN rail or panel using the built‑in holes.
- Wire 24 VDC power and your inputs/outputs per the user manual.
- Install any expansion boards (e.g. FX3U‑ENET for Ethernet) directly on the main unit.
- Connect via Ethernet or RS‑485 to your PC. Launch GX Works2 or GX Developer.
- Write ladder logic, configure analog scaling for weighing modules, and download online.
- Monitor I/O and analog values live, adjust scaling or PID in the software.
Tips: Use shielded cable for analog wiring. Keep expansion modules in recommended order to avoid noise. Always power down before adding modules.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What’s the difference between FX3U‑32MT and ‑48MT?
‑32MT has 32 I/O (16 in/16 out); ‑48MT has 48 I/O (24 in/24 out). - Does it support Ethernet natively?
Only with FX3U‑ENET adapter; main unit has expansion slot for it. - How many analog channels?
Six analog inputs and two analog outputs on the MT models. - Max pulse output frequency?
Up to 100 kHz on four channels. - Which programming software is required?
GX Developer or GX Works2. - What’s program memory?
64 000 steps. - Is stepper motor control built‑in?
Yes, with special adapters it supports stepper. - Can I expand I/O further?
Yes, via CC‑Link, AS‑i or remote I/O extension units. - What certifications?
UL, cUL, CE (EMC). - Operating temperature?
Standard industrial range: 0–55 °C.
User Review Summary
On Amazon, users of the ViaGasaFamido FX3U‑48MT clone praise its easy installation, stable performance and value for money. Pros: reliable 24 in/24 out, 6 AD/2 DA, high‑speed counting, clear documentation. Cons: occasional shipping of older board revisions, customer support can be limited.
Comparison with Competing Products
FX3U‑32MT/48MT vs Allen‑Bradley MicroLogix 1400: Mitsubishi offers built‑in analog, high‑speed pulses and cheaper expansion; MicroLogix has onboard Ethernet and integrated Data Hwy+ but higher cost. FX3U vs Siemens S7‑1200: Siemens has advanced integrated Profinet and software library but fewer analog channels without add‑ons; FX3U is more cost‑effective for mixed digital/analog I/O with precise motion.
Technical Specifications
Model options: FX3U‑32MT/DSS, ‑32MT/DS, ‑32MT/ESS, ‑32MT/ES; FX3U‑48MT/DS, ‑48MT/ESS, ‑48MT/ES.
Power supply: 24 VDC or 100‑240 VAC variants.
Digital I/O: 32 or 48 points (16 in/16 out or 24 in/24 out).
Analog I/O: 6 AD (universal), 2 DA.
High‑speed pulse: 4 channels @100 kHz, 6 channels @12 kHz for counting.
Memory: 64 K steps program, 8 000 data registers.
Communication: RS‑232C/422/485, Ethernet via adapter.
Expansion: CC‑Link, AS‑i, remote I/O up to 384 points.
Dimensions: 150×90×86 mm (32 I/O) or 182×90×86 mm (48 I/O).
Weight: 0.65 kg (32 I/O) or 0.85 kg (48 I/O).
Brand or Manufacturer Info
Mitsubishi Electric’s FX series is known for durability, expandability and industry‑standard performance. The FX3U sits at the top of the compact family, backed by Mitsubishi’s global support, extensive documentation and software ecosystem.
Purchase Recommendations
Amazon: PLC Industrial Control Board, FX3U‑48MT DC 24V 1A Analog 6AD 2DA by ViaGasaFamido
Lollette: https://www.lollette.com/fx3u-32mt-48mt-plc-ethernet-analog-weighing-controller