Q Series Automation Platform
Source: Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc.
Q Series is a unique multidisciplinary automation platform that combines all the elements of common automation systems into one compact, integrated, high performance system.
Q Series is a unique multidisciplinary automation platform that combines all the elements of common automation systems into one compact, integrated, high performance system. No other automation platform available today offers such a broad scope of high performance automation possibilities by combining sequence, motion, process & PC based control on a single compact rack based system. By taking this approach, Mitsubishi can offer a system that seamlessly integrates sequence control, complex motion profiles & continuous process control while also being able to run any third party PC application for control, data handling or any other application.
Performance of a system built with the Q Series is assured. Instruction execution takes place in nanoseconds, allowing 1k/step of sequence program to be executed in microseconds. With this performance, Q Series enables any line to stand far out from the performance of the crowd.
The Q Series shows clear technical leadership of the industry with its wide range of advanced features that bring a wealth of compelling benefits to any complex application:
- Q Series allows development time to be dramatically cut with its innovative multiple program/multiple user operating systems. This allows multiple developers to work on a project simultaneously thus reducing lead-time via concurrent development. This is achieved via modularization of the application into multiple separate programs. As well as shortening lead-time, this also allows reduction of future project timelines by reuse of existing program code. Moreover, multiple users may access the CPU simultaneously meaning troubleshooting and debugging tasks are no longer dependent on a single programmer.
- Q Series also leverages the benefits of Mitsubishi's advanced development suite, based around the GX Developer Windows ™ based system. Using the simulation capabilities of this suite allows developers to verify the correct operation of their systems without the need for actual physical hardware if necessary. For program downloads, an integrated USB port eliminates unproductive waiting. Additionally, GX-Developer frees users from much of the busywork associated with configuring a complex system, freeing them to concentrate on actual application code. Q Series offers a suite of tools specifically designed to make system configuration as easy as checking off a list. This applies to all system components, from analog modules through to Ethernet communications.
- Control up to 96 axes of motion from one system, with an innovative programming system that allows the designer to create a virtual mechanical system rather than deal with cumbersome programming languages.
- Q Series offers full support for Mitsubishi's high performance SSCNET system, which allows our full line of digital servos to be controlled in a daisy chain fashion from the controller, preventing the need for complex wiring harnesses.
- With an eye on current automation trends, the Q Series also features full 100base-T Ethernet & Internet capability, including FTP, email, and HTTP functions.
- Q Series' PC capability puts a full featured PC directly on the controller rack, meaning that the full spectrum of PC software is also available, including third party languages such as Microsoft's ® Visual C++ & Visual Basic® languages.
- Finally, the physical size of the Q Series is another compelling benefit. Despite all these powerful features, the average Q Series system takes no more panel space than the average micro PLC. The Q Series is scheduled for general release by summer 2002, with sample quantities shipping now.
Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc., 500 Corporate Woods Parkway, Vernon Hills, IL 60061. Tel: 847-478-2100; Fax: 847-478-2396.