Fx5u Selection Tool Jun 2026

The FX5U Selection Tool , primarily known as the FA Integrated Selection Tool , is a free, web-based software provided by Mitsubishi Electric . It is designed to simplify the complex process of configuring a MELSEC iQ-F series (FX5U) PLC system, ensuring that all chosen components are compatible and meet specific system design rules. Key Features of the FX5U Selection Tool The tool acts as a virtual engineer, guiding you through the hardware configuration of your PLC project. Interactive System Configuration : You can visually build your PLC rack by adding CPU modules, power supplies, and various expansion blocks. Automatic Compatibility Checks : One of the most valuable features is its ability to perform real-time calculations. It checks product combinations, current consumption, and I/O point limits without requiring you to manually consult thick hardware manuals. Detailed Documentation : Once a configuration is complete, the tool can generate a Selection Result in Excel format, including model names, quantities, and even standard pricing, which is ideal for purchase quotes. Expansion & Networking : It allows for the selection of optional cables, hubs, and network interfaces (like CC-Link IE Field or RS-485 modules) to complete the industrial network. Benefits of Using the Tool Using the FA Integrated Selection Tool provides several advantages for engineers and system integrators: Error Reduction : It prevents common mistakes, such as exceeding the total number of I/O points (max 512 points for FX5U) or overdrawing power from the CPU's internal 24V DC supply. Efficiency : It significantly reduces the time spent on parts selection. Users can quickly swap modules to see how they impact the overall system footprint and cost. Upgrade Assistance : Mitsubishi also offers a Product Transition Selection Tool specifically for users looking to upgrade older FX series (like FX3U) to the modern FX5U platform while utilizing existing wiring. How to Access the Tool The FX5U Selection Tool is available online through the Mitsubishi Electric Factory Automation portal. It is a free-of-charge service, though it is recommended to always verify the final selection against the official hardware manuals before ordering. For those new to the FX5U, it's worth noting that the FX5U CPU module itself comes with impressive built-in features, including 2-channel analog input, 1-channel analog output, an Ethernet port, and an SD card slot. The selection tool helps you build upon this powerful foundation by adding only what is necessary for your specific application. FA Integrated Selection Tool | Products - Mitsubishi Electric

FA Integrated Selection Tool from Mitsubishi Electric is a web-based application designed to help users configure system architectures for the MELSEC iQ-F Series , including the . It eliminates the need to manually cross-reference bulky catalogs by automatically verifying compatible product combinations. MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC Global website Key Capabilities for FX5U Users System Configuration : You can select a base FX5U CPU module and then drag-and-drop compatible expansion modules, such as I/O, analog, and network units. Automatic Calculations : The tool automatically calculates critical system metrics, such as: 5V DC current consumption to ensure the power supply can handle the connected modules. Start I/O numbers for addressing. Sample Configurations : Users can choose from pre-built configurations categorized by purpose (e.g., specific network types or device sets) to speed up the design process. Export Options : Once a configuration is finalized, the tool can export a complete bill of materials to , which is useful for requesting purchase quotes. MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC Global website How to Use the Tool

The FA Integrated Selection Tool is the primary resource for building and validating a Mitsubishi FX5U PLC system. It guides you through a logical "story" of system design, ensuring that every module and accessory is compatible before you finalize your BOM. The Selection "Story" Flow The tool follows a structured path to help you build a complete automation solution: CPU Core Selection : You start by choosing the base CPU, such as the standard FX5U Terminal Block Type (supporting up to 384 I/O points) or the more compact FX5UC Connector Type . Expansion & I/O : The tool prompts you to add I/O modules , analog control, or high-speed counting modules. It automatically flags if a conversion adapter (like the FX5-CNV-IF) is required to bridge different module types. Specialty Functions : You can integrate Safety Extension Modules for built-in safety control or Motion Modules for precision positioning via SSCNET III/H. Network & Peripherals : It allows for the addition of network modules (Ethernet, CC-Link IE, Modbus) and essential accessories like SD cards for data logging or replacement batteries. Validation & Export : The final "chapter" provides a system configuration diagram and an Excel export listing all model names, quantities, and estimated prices. Key Features of the Tool Interactive Guidance : Provides a step-by-step selection guide to help you pick the right PLC for your specific application. Legacy Support : Includes a Product Transition Tool specifically for users upgrading from older FX3 series to the iQ-F (FX5) series. Software Integration : Ensures your hardware selection is compatible with GX Works3 , the next-generation engineering software used for FX5U programming.

Mastering System Architecture: The Ultimate Guide to the Mitsubishi FX5U Selection Tool In the rapidly evolving landscape of industrial automation, the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) remains the beating heart of the control system. Among the heavyweights of the industry, the Mitsubishi Electric MELSEC iQ-F series, specifically the FX5U , has established itself as a benchmark for compact, high-performance control. However, purchasing the CPU is only the first step. Building a robust, efficient, and cost-effective automation system requires precise configuration of inputs, outputs, expansion modules, and networking capabilities. This is where the FX5U selection tool becomes an indispensable asset for control engineers, system integrators, and procurement specialists. Navigating the complex matrix of compatible expansion cards, power supply requirements, and I/O addressing can be a minefield of errors if done manually. This article provides a deep dive into the importance of selection tools, how to utilize them for optimal system architecture, and the critical parameters you must consider when specifying an FX5U-based control panel. The Complexity of the MELSEC iQ-F Ecosystem The Mitsubishi FX5U is marketed as a "compact" PLC, but do not let the size fool you. It is engineered to handle complex tasks ranging from high-speed counting and positioning to complex data logging and network communication via CC-Link IE and SLMP. Because the FX5U is modular by design, it allows engineers to tailor the system to the exact needs of the application. However, this flexibility introduces complexity. An engineer must consider: fx5u selection tool

I/O Count: Does the system require 64 digital inputs, or 256? Signal Types: Are the inputs 24V DC sink/source, or do they require AC switching? Analog Precision: What resolution is required for temperature sensors or pressure transducers? Power Budget: Does the base unit provide enough internal current (5V/24V) to power all connected expansion modules?

The FX5U selection tool serves as the bridge between the engineer’s requirements and the hardware reality, ensuring that the final Bill of Materials (BOM) is functional, compliant, and within budget. What is the FX5U Selection Tool? While Mitsubishi Electric does not provide a standalone piece of software explicitly named "FX5U Selection Tool," the term generally refers to two primary resources provided by Mitsubishi and its distributors:

The MELSEC iQ-F Selection Guide (PDF/Interactive): A comprehensive manual that maps out the compatibility between the FX5U CPU and expansion modules. GX Works3 Engineering Configuration Tool: The programming software itself, which includes a "System Configuration" checker that validates the hardware setup. The FX5U Selection Tool , primarily known as

For the purpose of selection and procurement, engineers often utilize Excel-based configurators or the interactive "MELSEC Select" tools found on Mitsubishi Electric’s global automation websites. These tools cross-reference part numbers to ensure compatibility. Key Parameters to Analyze Using the Selection Tool When utilizing a selection tool for the FX5U, you are not simply picking parts from a catalog. You are performing a system feasibility check. Here are the critical factors the tool helps you analyze: 1. I/O Capacity and Slot Management The FX5U base unit comes with built-in I/O (ranging from 32 to 256 points depending on the specific CPU model, such as FX5U-32M, FX5U-64M, etc.). When the built-in I/O is exhausted, you must add expansion modules. The selection tool ensures you do not exceed the maximum allowable I/O points (256 for standard expansion, up to 384 with remote I/O). It also alerts you to physical constraints—the FX5U can typically control up to 16 extension modules, but high-power modules (like those driving servo amplifiers) may count double in terms of power consumption calculations. 2. Power Budget Calculation (DC 5V and DC 24V) This is the most common pitfall for novice engineers. The FX5U CPU contains an internal power supply unit (PSU) that provides DC 5V for the logic circuits of expansion modules and DC 24V for field sensors and relays.

The Risk: If you stack too many analog modules, communication cards, and high-density I/O modules, the total current draw may exceed the capacity of the CPU. The Solution: An advanced selection tool automatically sums the current consumption of every module in your list. If the budget is exceeded, the tool will recommend adding an Extension Power Supply Module (FX5U-1PSU) . Without this check, your machine may power up successfully but fail intermittently when all sensors are active, leading to costly downtime.

3. Special Function Modules (SFX) The FX5U supports a wide array of Special Function Modules (SFX) for tasks like positioning, weighing, and temperature control. The selection tool is vital here because many of these modules have specific slot requirements or buffer memory limitations. For example, if you require high-speed counters for a flow meter application, the tool helps you distinguish between standard input cards and high-speed counter modules (FX5-4HCA), ensuring you don't purchase hardware that cannot handle the pulse frequency required by your application. 4. Communication Protocols Modern factories are interconnected. Your FX5U needs to talk to HMIs, SCADA systems, VFDs, and robots. The selection tool helps identify the right communication option: Interactive System Configuration : You can visually build

Built-in Ethernet: Standard on all FX5U units. Serial Communication: If you need RS-232 or RS-