Panasonic Electric Works (http://pewa.panasonic.com) unveiled a new world standard, slim programmable logic controller (“PLC”), the Panasonic FP0R PLCs. Starting from 10 to 32 I/O, the CPU only measures 25(w) x 90(h) x 70 (d) millimeters. It is about a quarter of the size of the traditional bulky Brick PLC.

FP0R PLC Programmers saves money and precious panel space. Its relay output types have detachable screw terminal blocks. Also, the power supply is quick to disconnect. It is easy to install, especially when duplicating systems.

It has an 80 nsec/step ultra-high speed between 0 and 3000 steps. Scan time can be reduced by simply transferring existing FP0 programs (“2.7 k steps”) into FP0R.

Compared to the conventional model, 3001st and later steps’ processing is faster. FP0’s basic instruction processing speed is 900 nsec. While FP0R’s speed is 580 nsec, which is 1.5 times faster than FP0.

Its high-speed processing, by combining the two ultra-high-speed processing (“0 to 3 k steps”), accommodates programs that grow with functionality enhancements of equipment and systems, raising the productivity.

Also, its ultra high processing speed is ideal for use as a sensor controller. For example, labeling machines require a system capable of reading output signals in an instant from one fiber sensor and immediately controlling the roller rotation to detect the end edge or label head on the release paper tape.

FP0R Series has 32k-word data register and 32k-step program capacity. It features functionality enhancements of equipment and systems (touch panels, communications, positioning, and analog control) inevitably accompany increasing complexity and number of programs.

FP0R PLCs accommodates the increase using its 32k steps large program memory capacity and a data register of 32k words, and facilitates data setting and record management for a variety of product types.

It has an independent comment memory for easy maintenance of programs, where there are program control difficulties on PC, like identifying the latest program. With this, all comments, maintenance, facilitating program control and programs can be stored in the PLC.

The program used in the equipment’s PLC is often considered as the best option.

FP0R PLCs is fully compatible with FPWIN Pro, a new generation programming tool. Without the drawing data (“project file”), the flowchart programming (“SFC”) and function blocks (“FB”) cannot restore the original drawing on a PC.

The FP0R PLCs also have a USB 2.0 tool port, which is provided as standard equipment. The control unit with an ordinary USB cable can easily connect to a PC, making program monitoring and/or editing available.