New Original Panasonic AFPX-COM3 Communication Module for FP-X Series PLC Controllers

"*" señala los campos obligatorios

New Original Panasonic AFPX-COM3 Serial Communication Cassette Module for FP-X Series PLC Controllers

Product Overview

AFPX-COM3 is an original plug-in dedicated communication cassette developed by Panasonic, exclusively designed for FP-X, FP-XH compact modular PLC series controllers. It provides one isolated serial channel with switchable RS-485 / RS-422 interface, acting as an expansion port to extend the PLC’s serial communication capability beyond the factory-built COM0 port on the CPU main unitmediap.ind….

Adopting isolated circuit design to resist industrial electromagnetic interference, this module supports mainstream industrial communication protocols including Modbus RTU, Panasonic proprietary MEWTOCOL, PLC Link and user-defined free serial communication. It enables stable long-distance data exchange between the PLC and human-machine touch screens, inverters, temperature controllers, barcode readers and upper monitoring computers. Compliant with CE, RoHS industrial environmental and safety standards, it is widely applied in small automated assembly machines, packaging equipment, conveyor lines, food processing machinery and general factory automation control systems.

Main Technical Specifications

Parameter Item Detailed Specification
Model Number AFPX-COM3
Product Type Plug-in Communication Cassette (Internal Expansion Card)
Compatible PLC Host Panasonic FP-X / FP-XH Series All CPU Units
Communication Channel 1 isolated channel, switchable RS485 / RS422
Electrical Isolation Optocoupler isolation between PLC internal bus and external serial terminal
Adjustable Baud Rate 300 ~ 115200 bps
Supported Protocols MEWTOCOL-COM, Modbus RTU (Master/Slave), PLC Link, General Free Protocol
Transmission Wiring 2-wire RS485 half-duplex / 4-wire RS422 full-duplex optional
Max Transmission Distance 1200m (9600bps); 500m (115200bps)
Parity Configuration None / Odd / Even selectable
Stop Bit Options 1 bit / 2 bits
Installable Quantity Max 2 cassettes mounted on one FP-X CPU unit
Operating Ambient Temperature 0 ℃ ~ +55 ℃ (non-condensing indoor cabinet use only)
Storage Temperature -20 ℃ ~ +70 ℃
Vibration Resistance 10–55 Hz, 1.5 mm amplitude, 2 hours per X/Y/Z axis
Shock Resistance 500 m/s² acceleration impact resistance
Protection Grade IP20
Status Indicators TXD / RXD communication LED indicator lights

Overall Dimensions & Net Weight

  • Module Outer Size: 62 mm × 38 mm × 20 mm
  • Installation Method: Directly inserted into the dedicated cassette slot on PLC CPU side panel
  • Fixed Structure: Secured by 2 small locking screws
  • Single Module Net Weight: Approximately 35 g

Primary Main Functions

  1. Serial Communication Port Expansion: Adds one independent isolated RS485/422 serial port, allowing the PLC to operate up to 3 serial ports simultaneously for multi-device networking data interaction.
  2. Modbus RTU Master-Slave Communication: Works as master station to read/write parameters of inverters and temperature sensors; also serves as slave station for data uploading to industrial host computers.
  3. Long-Distance Distributed Bus Networking: Differential signal transmission realizes stable communication over kilometers, ideal for multi-station distributed workshop automation equipment.
  4. Custom Free Serial Communication: Supports user-programmable communication frames to match private protocols of non-standard industrial testing instruments and sensors.
  5. Isolation Anti-Interference Protection: Built-in optocoupler isolation blocks surge voltage and electromagnetic noise from servo drives and power equipment, protecting the PLC main CPU circuit.
  6. PLC Link Interconnection: Enables data sharing and coordinated operation between multiple FP-X series PLC controllers on the same production line.
  7. Convenient On-Site Installation & Replacement: Tool-free plug-in design simplifies disassembly without removing the entire PLC from the DIN rail during maintenance.
  8. Real-Time Communication Status Monitoring: Transmit/receive LED lights clearly display data transmission status for quick wiring inspection and fault diagnosis.

Key Technical Features

  1. Complete galvanic isolation design eliminates common-mode interference, delivering far more stable communication performance than non-isolated RS232 modules in harsh industrial environments.
  2. Compact ultra-small cassette structure occupies no extra DIN rail space, perfectly matching the slim integrated design of FP-X compact PLC series.
  3. Flexible interface switching between RS485 and RS422 adapts to diverse wiring requirements of different peripheral automation devices.
  4. Wide baud rate range covers low-speed sensor data collection and high-volume parameter uploading scenarios.
  5. Optimized circuit power consumption imposes almost no extra load on the PLC internal power supply, ensuring long-term stable continuous operation.
  6. Strict component screening and aging testing guarantee consistent communication accuracy under 24-hour uninterrupted workshop operation.
  7. Standard unified cassette interface fully compatible with all FP-X and upgraded FP-XH series PLC hosts for equipment upgrade and spare parts replacement.
  8. Multi-protocol compatibility avoids purchasing multiple separate communication modules, effectively reducing overall system construction costs.

List of 10 Panasonic FP-X Series Similar Functional Communication Cassette Modules

  1. AFPX-COM1: 1-channel non-isolated RS232C communication cassette with handshake control signals
  2. AFPX-COM2: Dual-channel RS232C serial communication cassette (non-isolated, two independent ports)
  3. AFPX-COM4: Combined cassette: 1 isolated RS485 channel + 1 non-isolated RS232C channel
  4. AFPX-COM5: Ethernet communication cassette (10/100Mbps LAN port + auxiliary RS232C port)
  5. AFPX-COM6: Dual isolated RS485 two-channel high-capacity serial communication cassette
  6. AFPX-COM1J: Low-power economy version single RS232 cassette for simple debugging scenarios
  7. AFPX-COM3J: Low-temperature enhanced RS485/422 module for cold workshop environments
  8. AFPX-COM4J: Cost-reduced combined RS485+RS232 communication cassette
  9. AFPX-ETH1: Independent extended Ethernet module for large-scale factory network interconnection
  10. AFPX-NET1: PLC dedicated link communication module for multi-PLC group control networking
WHO WE ARE

Sobre nosotros

Located in Kunshan, China, Atifts Technology Co., Ltd. is a well-known enterprise specializing in electronic components distribution. We specialize in the sales of global brands of industrial automation components, with a wealth of experience in foreign product agents, and many of the world's leading manufacturers such as Keens, Schneider, SMC, ABB, Siemens, and other world-renowned manufacturers to establish a long-term and stable relations of cooperation.

Atifts Technology Co., Ltd. @ 2024

Over the years, we have always adhered to the "pioneering, pragmatic, standardized, innovative" management philosophy, and constantly promote the close integration of products and market demand. We firmly believe that only by constantly exploring new market areas, doing a good job in every detail, standardizing business processes, and continuously innovating products and services can we ensure that our products are more adaptable to market changes and meet the diversified needs of our customers. Since the founding of the company, we have always adhered to the core concept of "survival by quality", and are committed to providing customers with high-quality electronic components. At the same time, we take specialized R & D manufacturing as the goal, market-oriented development strategy to ensure that our products are always in the forefront of the industry.
With excellent product quality, professional technical service and good market reputation, Kunshan Autofits Technology Co.,Ltd. has won the trust and support of our customers. We look forward to working with more partners hand in hand, to achieve long-term win-win relationship, and jointly promote the prosperity of the electronic components industry.
Where is your company located?
We are located next to Shanghai, the largest city in China, and Kunshan, the first economic county in China. With convenient transportation and developed logistics, it provides a good geographical advantage for our electronic components sales business.
What types of electronic components does your company mainly sell?
We are committed to providing many types and brands of electronic components, including but not limited to Sensors, Switches & Relays, Connectors, Circuit Protectio, Power Supplier & Cable, etc. We have established relationships with many well-known electronic component manufacturers. We have established long-term and stable relationships with many well-known electronic component manufacturers to ensure that the products we sell are of reliable quality and reasonable price.
What are the prices of your products?
Our product prices vary according to market conditions and product models. We are committed to providing high quality electronic components at fair and reasonable prices, and offer our customers a variety of incentives and flexible purchasing methods.
How to purchase your electronic components?
You can contact our customer service staff directly by phone, whatsapp, email, our official website. We support a variety of payment methods, and provide you with fast and safe logistics and distribution services.
How do you guarantee the quality of your products?
We attach great importance to product quality, all the electronic components we sell come from regular channels and undergo strict quality testing. We promise to provide customers with high-quality electronic components, and provide perfect after-sales service to ensure that customers have no worries in the process of use.
If I am not satisfied with the electronic components I purchased, can I return them?
We provide perfect after-sales service, if you are not satisfied with the purchased electronic components, you can return or exchange them within the specified time. Please refer to our official website or consult our customer service staff for the specific return policy and process.
Can your company provide technical support and solutions?
We have a professional technical team that can provide technical support and solutions for our customers. Whether you encounter any problems in choosing or using the products, we will be happy to answer your questions and provide professional technical support.
How to contact your customer service?
You can contact our customer service personnel through the online customer service system on our official website, telephone, e-mail or social media platforms. Our customer service staff will provide you with professional services and answer any questions you may have.
Does your company often organize promotional activities?
In order to give back to our customers, we will organize various promotions from time to time, including discounts, full reductions, giveaways and so on. Please keep an eye on our official website or social media platforms to stay up-to-date with the latest promotions.