The MELSEC iQ-R Series includes a wide range of programmable automation controllers capable of catering to diversified automation control needs, redesigned around the new MELSEC iQ-R high-speed system bus to ensure high performance and intelligent processing power. The lineup includes a high-performance, general-purpose controller (with an embedded CC-Link IE network model available) capable of variable memory capacities and a high-precision motion controller with variable controllable axes. In addition, application-specific CPUs are available; the Safety CPU (supporting functional safety standards), Process CPU (supporting high-speed PID control and hot-swap of I/O modules and when paired with a redundant function module realizes a high available control system), and the C Controller CPU, which provides C language programming ideal for converting from personal computer or micro-controller based systems.
Controller performance has been improved, resulting in increased processing power and the ability to handle larger amounts of data.
The multi-CPU architecture has been further improved, enabling faster data exchange across the backplane. The core instruction processing speed has also been improved tenfold, helping to reduce the production cycle time. High-speed and large process control systems can be realized, supporting up to 500 loops.
Balancing of various different control needs can be done effectively utilizing the multi-CPU feature of the MELSEC iQ-R Series. Up to 192 servo axes can be controlled by incorporating three separate motion CPUs on the base unit, with a spare CPU slot required for controlling the general aspects of the system.