Compatibility and Networking with Panasonic and Omron PLCs

Panasonic Corporation offers an extensive array of Programmable Logic Controllers that range from compact PLC modules with basic functionality to high-performance full-function PLC systems capable of positioning control, analog control, and network communication.

Essentially, all Panasonic PLCs offer an excellent price-performance benefit as they incorporate a multitude of advanced functions, including electronic cam control, PID control, multi-axis interpolation, adaptive filters, and more, all in an extremely compact design. This makes them highly adaptable and ideal for a variety of industrial automation applications, including the following:

• Process control in manufacturing industries
• Monitor and control industrial machinery and equipment such as assembly lines, material handling systems, and packaging equipment.
• Monitoring, regulating, and optimizing energy consumption in energy management systems.
• Control of pumps, valves, etc., in water and wastewater treatment facilities.
• Monitoring and controlling the operation of conveyor belts, baggage handling systems, cranes, and other equipment used in transportation systems such as ports, railway terminals, and airports
• Monitor and control various processes, such as heating, mixing, packaging, and storage, in food and beverage processing.

Available Panasonic PLC Series

Panasonic PLCs are available in various models with different features and specifications to meet the diverse requirements of various industrial automation applications.

Here are the most popular Panasonic PLC Series:

FP-X0 PLC Series

The FP-X0 series features multi-functional and cost-effective Panasonic programmable controllers that incorporate all the functions required for the most common motion control tasks and simple automation applications. FP-X0 CPUs support 14, 40, 30, and 60 standard I/O points, and expanding them up to 216 input and output points is possible.

Key features:

• Operating voltage: 100…. 240 Volts AC
• Basic instructions processing speed: 0.08µs/step for the first 3000 steps, and 0.58µs/step afterwards
• Processor memory type: built-in flash Read-Only Memory (ROM)
• Memory capacity: up to 8k Words for data registers and a maximum of 8k Steps for programs
• I/O capability can be expanded using FP0R and FP-X digital and analog I/O expansion units
• An inbuilt real-time clock and analog input – 2-channel (10-bit resolution) analog input for potentiometer input, thermistor input, and voltage input (0…10V)
• An integral 2-channel pulse output for linear interpolation
• Maximum pulse output frequency: 50 kHz for two channels
• Maximum high-speed counting frequency: 50 kHz for one channel
• Allows use of an 8-digit password for program protection
• Includes a function that blocks uploads
• Programmed using Control FPWIN Pro Panasonic programming software by the IEC 61131-3 international programming standard.

FP-XH PLC Series

The FP-XH series features powerful and compact PLCs with a screw-type terminal block, which allows seamless integration of the PLCs without the need for marshaling panels.

Key Features:

• Operating voltage: 100…. 240V AC or 24V DC
• Program memory capacity: up to 40k Steps. 16k Steps for the C14 CPU and 24k / 40k / 32k Steps (selectable depending on the setting of the system register) for the other FP-XH CPUs.
• Basic instruction processing speed: 0.04μs/step for up to 7k steps, and 0.7μs/step for more than 7k steps.
• High-level instruction processing speed: 0.22μs/step for up to 7k steps, and 1.73μs/step for more than 7k steps
• Multi-axis positioning control with up to six (6) axes of motion that provide pulse output (a maximum of 100 kHz per axis).
• One analog input channel for potentiometer input
• High-speed counter and pulse outputs: Transistor output type (NPN or PNP) and Relay output type
• FP-XH I/O capability can be extended using:
• FP-X I/O expansion units, up to 300 input and output points
• Up to eight (8) FP0R I/O expansion units and add-on cassettes for a maximum of 382 I/O points
• A maximum of 4 add-on cassettes (2 communication cassettes, two application cassettes)
• Allows use of existing FP-X programs without any modifications.
• Requires a backup battery: Catalog No. AFPABAT001

FP0H PLC Series

The FP0H Series includes high-performance, ultra-compact PLCs with advanced software and hardware features ideal for mid-size and demanding automation applications such as Telecontrolling.

Key Features:

• Modular structure and compact design
• Program memory capacity: up to 64k Steps and a maximum of 64k Words. This shared processor memory can be allocated to data registers and programs via a system register. For example, you can allocate 64k words to data registers if the amount of log data is massive or 64k words to program memory when the number of programs is large. 
• Basic instruction processing speed:10ns(nanosecond)/step for up to 10k steps
• SD card slot for program transfer and data logging
• 16 inputs and 16 outputs as standard, and a maximum of 384 I/O points with expansion units
• Transistor outputs (PNP/NPN)
• I/O capability can be extended with up to four FPΣ (Sigma) or FP0H I/O expansion modules and up to three FP0R I/O expansion units
• Inbuilt 4-axis pulse outputs
• Can control up to 4 axes of motion with pulse output( a max. of 100 kHz per axis)

FP0R PLC Series

The FP0R Series offers ultra-compact PLCs with enhanced functionality and optimized performance. FP0R PLCs are particularly suited for demanding applications with limited space, like small switching cabinets and labeling applications.

Key Features:

• EEPROM program memory, no backup battery is needed
• Program capacity: 16k or 32k Steps
• Data Register capacity: 12k or 32k Words
• F-Type FP0R units do not require a battery to backup all data in the processor memory
• High-resolution (14-bit) analog cards
• I/O capacity can be expanded by connecting up to three FP0 expansion modules to an FP0R unit for a maximum of 128 I/O points.
• Can position up to 4 axes of motion without expansion units  
• Highly advanced, inbuilt multi-axis positioning functions that make the FP0R controllers ideal for use in positioning labeling machines. Those functions include:
• Jog operation
• Individual settings deceleration and acceleration ramp functions
• Ability to read pulse frequency measurements, i.e., encoder signals of up to50 kHz
• Use of an external signal input to change the target speed during trapezoidal control or jog operation
• Ability to use 4-axis pulse outputs and 6-channel HSCs (high-speed counters) simultaneously
• A Universal serial bus (USB) 2.0 TOOL port that provides simple and high-speed program transfers

FP7 PLC Series

The FP7 Series features modular and connective PLCs with high performance and enhanced functionality in an extremely compact design. The FP7 PLCs also include expandable intelligent units and advanced features, making them an ideal choice for numerous industrial automation applications.

Key Features:

• Basic instruction processing speed: 11ns/step
• An FP or a 24V DC power supply unit
• Program memory: a built-in flash Read-Only Memory (ROM) that does not require a backup battery
• Program memory capacity: up to 500k Words for data registers or a maximum of 220k Program Steps
• Supports up to 64 different I/O expansion units
• Add on cassettes that expand analog I/O and communication functionality without increasing footprint

Compatibility and Networking with Panasonic PLCs

It is important to implement Panasonic PLCs that can effectively communicate and interact with each other or with various types of networks, software, actuators, sensors, other PLCs, SCADA systems, HMIs, and other industrial automation devices. This compatibility largely depends on the communication protocols the deployed Panasonic PLCs support. Communication protocols are basically a set of validated rules defining how data is transmitted between different control system components, especially across a network.

As such, you need to select a Panasonic PLC whose supported communication protocols are compatible with your application’s communication and networking features. Let’s look at the communication and networking features of the Panasonic PLC Series described in the above section.

FP-X0 Series

The FP-X0 Panasonic PLCs support up to two serial communication ports: 1 RS-232 port and

1RS-485 port. You can use the two serial ports simultaneously. Also, the FP-X0 PLCs are compatible with all other Panasonic FP-Series PLCs.

FP-XH Series

The FP-XH PLCs are available with the following communication and networking features:

• An inbuilt RS-232 serial communication port. This port supports a maximum of 5 communication channels, including two add-on communication cassettes (two-channel type) and a TOOL port.
• Compatibility with master/slave Modbus-RTU
• Supports PLC link communication, which allows sharing word data and bit data via FP-XH PLC connections (for up to 16 units).
• An internal USB port that facilitates the programming of the FP-XH PLCs for various applications like Telecontrol systems.

FP0H Series

Panasonic FP0H PLCs come with multiple communication interfaces for connecting to other industrial automation devices. These communication interfaces include:

• Two Ethernet ports that support multiple communication protocols, including Modbus-TCP, EtherNet/IP, and MC protocol. Also, the Ethernet-type FP0H controllers can easily be connected to other PLCs and robots.
• FTP client/server functionality
• One RS-232C serial port
• One USB port
• Slots for 4 communication cassettes: RS-232C, RS-485, RS-232C 2, RS-232C and RS-485. The four communication cassettes extend the serial communication functionality of the FP0H CPUs without the need to install a dedicated communication module.

FP0R Series

FP0R programmable controllers support several types of networking communication using an inbuilt communication interface or expansion units. The communication networks supported by the FP0R PLCs include:

• Ethernet communication on both IEC 60870-5-104 and Modbus TCP/IP networks
• RS-485 or RS-232C serial communication
• Profibus
• CC-Link
• C-NET
• MEWNET-W0

FP7 Series

Panasonic FP7 CPUs are available with the following networking and communication features:

• An integrated Ethernet interface that provides connectivity to MEWTOCOL (client/server), Modbus TCP, FTP server, and EtherNet/IP networks for remote programming, monitoring, and data logging.
• Ability to connect a maximum of 220 external Ethernet devices (4 system connections and 216 user connections).
• An RS-232 serial communication port on all FP7 CPUs
• Can support a maximum of 35 serial communication channels
• Available with various Fieldbus units: DeviceNet, Profinet, CANopen, Profibus, and EtherCAT motion controller
• Up to 32GB SD data logging capability
• SSl-compatible FTP and HTTP client functions, including HTTP Client (using an HTTP server/cloud for data exchange/services), FTP client/server (file exchange), and sending of emails with attachments.
• An integrated web server that features a predefined or user-defined system webpage created based on HTML5 technology. This web server allows access to system/program variables or diagnostic data using the system webpage. Note that the created HTML webpages can be accessed via any Internet browser, including mobile devices like tablets and smartphones.
• Supports the use of various add-on communication cassettes. Available FP7 communication cassettes include:
• 1-channel, RS-232C Cassette (insulated): Catalog No. AFP7CCS1
• 2-channels, RS-232C Cassette (insulated): Catalog No. AFP7CCS2
• 1-channel, RS-485 or RS-422 Cassette (insulated): Catalog No. AFP7CCM1
• 2-channels, RS-485 or RS-422 Cassette (insulated): Catalog No. AFP7CCM2
• 1-channel, RS-232C (insulated) and 1-channel, RS-485 (insulated) Cassette: Catalog No. AFP7CCS1M1
• 10Base-T/100Base-TX Ethernet Cassette: Catalog No. AFP7CCET1

In summary

Panasonic PLCs support an extensive range of communication protocols, as discussed above. This enables them to interface with other automation systems and industrial devices seamlessly. The supported communication protocols basically standardize the exchange of commands and data between the Panasonic PLCs and other industrial devices, allowing seamless integration of dissimilar automation systems.

Omron PLCs Overview

Omron offers a vast selection of PLC models equipped with advanced features and capabilities, such as high processing speeds, exceptional performance, high durability and dependability, excellent scalability, and full transparency. As a result, Omron PLCs are a popular choice in most industrial automation applications, including control and automation of assembly lines, material handling systems, and packaging machines.

Available Omron PLC Series

Omron PLCs are broadly classified into three categories: (i) Rack-mounted PLCs, (ii) Compact PLCs, and (iii) Modular PLCs. Discussed below are the most commonly used Omron PLC series.

CS1 PLC Series

The CS1 Series features rack-mounted PLCs that can be configured from a wide selection of CS1 CPU units, CPU Bus modules, and special I/O units. These controllers are designed for medium-sized to large-scale industrial automation applications. Also, with their large programming capacity, the CS1 controllers can easily handle advanced data processing and high-end applications, such as advanced motion control, complex robotics, and machine vision systems.

Key Features:

• Program capacity: 10k to 250k Steps
• Data memory capacity: 64k to 448k Words, including extended data register memory
• Supports a maximum of 5120 input/output points
• Expansion capacity of up to 80 additional units, with the option of more extensions using up to seven expansion racks and rack extenders
• Each CS1 CPU can support a maximum of 4096 counters/timers

CP PLC Series

The CP Series features micro-range PLCs designed to support Machine-to-machine communications and advanced data collection. These PLCs are ideal for educational purposes and small/compact machine control. Currently available controller models in this series are (i) CP2E, (ii) CP1H, (iii) CP1L, and (iv) CP1E. The four CP-Series PLCs are classified as compact controllers.

Key Features:

• Supports 2-axis or 4-axis positioning control
• Embedded Ethernet communication function
• Program capacity: 20k Steps
• Data memory capacity: 32k Words
• Up to 60 Input/Output base models
• I/O expansion capacity: up to 320 input and output points
• Temperature sensor, analog, and digital I/O expansion units
• High-speed counters functionality, with 4 or 6 high-speed encoder inputs
• 2 or 4 high-speed pulse outputs to control two or four axes of motion
• Modbus Master feature for temperature control
• Analog I/O option boards
• Accurate process control with auto-tuning PID
• Optional boards for Ethernet, RS-232, RS-485, or RS-422 communications, or LCD displays and settings
• A peripheral USB port or built-in Ethernet ports – no special cables are required
• Battery-less operation – retains data and programs automatically

CJ1 PLC Series

The Omron CJ1 Series offers a wide variation of modular, high-speed, high-capacity PLC models that provide all the functions required to handle any control application, from simple sequence control to machine control to process control. Also, these controllers allow for flexible system configuration as they do not require a separate backplane. Available CJ1-Series PLC models include (i) CJ1H, (ii) CJ1G, and (iii) CJ1M.

Key Features:

• Can easily be installed in control panels due to their backplane-free structure
• Standard I/O capacity: a maximum of 2560 Input/Output points, but this I/O capacity can be expanded with up to 3 CJ-Series expansion racks.
• Program capacity: 5k to 250k Steps
• Data memory capacity: 32k to 448k Words
• Ladder Diagram (LD) instruction processing speed: 0.1µs/step, 0.04µs/step, or 0.02µs/step
• Compact flash memory
• A built-in RS-232C serial communication port
• The -ETN CJ1 CPU models include an integrated 100Base-Tx Ethernet port
• A Serial Gateway used to link several communication networks easily
• A fully configurable CAN(Controller Area Network) communication unit used to support any communication protocol

CJ2 PLC Series

The CJ2 Series inherits all the attributes of the CJ1 Series but with enhanced functionality and exceptional performance over the CJ1 PLCs. This series offers a comprehensive range of CJ2 CPUs with high-performance features for any control task, from simple machine control to advanced information processing.

Key Features:

• Supports four axes PTO (Pulse Train Output) I/O line driver
• Data communication through a standard Ethernet port that features EtherNet/IP Data Link function
• Program capacity: 5k to 500k Steps
• Data memory capacity: 64k to 832k Words
• Basic Ladder Diagram (LD) instructions processing speed: 0.04µs/step, or 0.016µs/step
• Supports up to 8 interrupt inputs
• Allows use of up to 4 high-speed counter inputs by connecting compatible rotary encoders to Pulse inputs
• Can easily achieve multi-axis positioning control using pulse outputs for up to 4 axes of motion
• Allows mounting of one optional RS-232C or RS-422A/RS-485 serial board
• An integral RS-232C and EtherNet/IP communication port in some CJ2 CPU models
• A built-in USB port as a standard  feature

Compatibility and Networking with Omron PLCs

Like Panasonic PLCs, compatibility and networking with Omron PLCs largely depend on the communication protocols they support. Essentially, Omron PLCs support many communication protocols and networks, enabling them to effectively communicate and interact with other industrial devices and various automation systems.

Let’s review the communication and networking features of the Omron PLC Series described in the above section.

CS1 PLC Series

The Omron CS1-Series PLCs support the following communication protocols:

• Serial communication through a Serial Gateway
• DeviceNet
• Ethernet: There are several functions that the CS1 controllers support to enhance Ethernet connectivity. They include up to 8 socket interfaces for UDP/IP and TCP/IP, FINS message communications, mail notification, and FTP file transfers.
• EtherCAT or EtherNet/IP communications are possible through a communications coupler. For instance, the NX-EIC202 coupler unit enables CS1 controllers to connect to an industrial EtherNet/IP^™ network.
• High-capacity, high-speed data links between CS1 PLCs via EtherNet/IP
• Controller Link networks (duplex/optical ring)

In addition, you can configure the CS1 PLCs for duplex operation to enable system redundancy.

CP PLC Series

The Omron CP Series supports the following communication protocols:

• RS-232C/ RS-485 / RS-422 serial communication
• CompoNet
• DeviceNet
• PROFIBUS-DP
• Controller Link
• Ethernet
• ModBus RTU
• EtherNet/IP
• ModBus TCP
• PROFINET
• Freely configurable Controller Area Network (CAN)

CJ1 PLC Series

Here are some of the communication protocols supported by CJ1 PLCs:

• RS-232C serial communication
• Ethernet
• DeviceNet
• PROFIBUS-DP
• CompoBus/S
• Controller Link
• Controller Area Network(fully configurable)

Note: The CJ1M, CJ1G, and CJ1H Omron PLCs in the CJ1-Series are compatible with I/O units, programming instructions, and memory allocations. This compatibility allows easier reuse of designs of CJ1-based control systems from large-scale applications to small-sized applications.

CJ2 PLC Series

The CJ2 Series supports the following communication protocols:

• Ethernet
• RS-232C/RS-422/RS-485 serial communication
• EtherNet/IP
• EtherCAT, possible with an EtherCAT interface
• DeviceNet
• MECHATROLINK-II
• FL-net
• PROFIBUS-DP
• CompoBus/S
• Controller Link
• Controller Area Network (fully configurable)
• ModBus TCP
• PROFINET
• ModBus RTU

This entry was posted on January 8th, 2024 and is filed under Omron, Panasonic, PLC. Both comments and pings are currently closed.