Troubleshooting RS485 and RS232 Communication on Mitsubishi FX2N PLC

Question:

Hello PLC Community! I have been facing challenges in utilizing the RS functions to communicate through the RS485 and RS232 ports on the PLC. While I understand that additional modules such as the FX-232-BD can facilitate this communication, I am curious why I am unable to directly utilize the RS232 port. I have attempted to modify C82 -> D8120 to alter the behavior of the RS232 and RS485 ports, but have not been successful. My objective is for the PLC to output data registers directly through the RS485 or RS232 port, bypassing the need for hardware middleware or the programmer protocol.

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The FX2N PLC only features a 422 port for programming, with a protocol that is not widely known or documented. However, there are adapter cards available for 232 and 485 communication. The 232-BD and 485-BD boards can be easily installed on the left side of the unit, while the 232-ADP and 485-ADP, as well as Ethernet types, can be installed on the right side just like the normal I/O modules. Setting up the boards in the PLC Parameters is straightforward, allowing for easy programming protocol customization. Although the FX2N and 3N models are no longer in production, there are still plenty available on the secondary market, such as eBay or from used equipment suppliers.

Upon further inspection, it seems that the PLC in question claims to have 232 & 485 ports, which is unusual for a genuine Fx model. This could indicate that it is a clone, as authentic models do not typically come with these ports as standard. In my experience, clones often restrict access to the PLC Parameters needed to configure additional communication ports. The compatibility of the PLC with genuine Mitsubishi add-on cards may vary depending on how closely the clone replicates the original model.

Thank you for your assistance! It appears that the 232 port is linked to the HMI for the PLC board, while the 485 port is a A+ B- component on the PLC board. Both ports are compatible with GX Works, indicating that they are likely programmer ports. Despite searching extensively, I have been unable to locate this specific board except on Chinese websites, suggesting that it may be a duplicate.

When it comes to programming a clone of the FX2N PLC, it can be a bit of a guessing game without a manual. The FX2N has three ports - port 0 for regular programming, port 1 for the first addon BD board, and port 2 for another BD board. It's believed that only one communication BD board can be used, with the other potentially being an Ethernet board. While there are other communication modules available, they require a different method of access. It's likely that the 232 or 485 port corresponds to com 0, with the opposite port being com 1. However, the exact identification of each port is uncertain. Some clones may have fixed PLC parameters that cannot be altered, but it may be possible to change settings in the 8000 range registers. Caution must be taken to avoid inadvertently disrupting programming access to both ports. For assistance, refer to the manual at the following link: https://dl.mitsubishielectric.com/dl/fa/document/manual/plc_fx/jy992d69901/jy992d69901e.pdf

I appreciate the information provided. The HMI/PLC interfaces come with individual images, functioning as separate programmer ports allowing simultaneous interaction. While some PLCs offer similar control capabilities, in this instance, they are solely designated as programmer ports. I will continue discussions with the supplier, although they are reluctant due to the intricacies of the Mistu protocol.

Hey there, it seems like you're dealing with a bit of a tricky situation! Here's what I think: it's possible that your PLC model may not directly support the communication protocol on the RS232 or RS485 ports, hence the need for additional modules. The C82 -> D8120 adjustment you mentioned impacts the baud rate settings and the port's behavior, true, but it's not a direct line to the kind of communication you're looking to establish. Instead, it could be that using ASCII commands through ladder logic or designated function blocks is the key to having your PLC output data registers directly. Of course, the specifics would depend on your PLC model. I'd recommend checking the manual closely for any native communication functionalities before ruling out additional modules.

Hi there! It sounds like you're in a bit of a pickle. From your description, it seems your PLC is not set up to directly output data registers via the RS232 or RS485 ports. You might be dealing with some issues related to the configuration of your PLC or its firmware. You might also need to check the integrity of your RS232 or RS485 ports and ensure they're correctly configured. Sometimes, certain modules with RS232 or RS485 capabilities have additional settings that need to be enabled to fully support these functionalities. Also, double-check that you don't have any conflicting settings in your PLC program that could be overriding your C82 -> D8120 modifications.

Hey there! Your issue might be due to the PLC model you're using. Some PLCs natively support communicating through RS232 / RS485, while others need additional modules like the FX-232-BD you mentioned. Bear in mind, the command to send data directly from a register to these ports isn't a standardized one; it can vary depending on the model and firmware. Therefore, it might not just be about altering C82 -> D8120. Review the manual or contact the manufacturer's support for specific guidance. Also, look into third-party terminal softwares to debug the communication - they often provide more comprehensive logs than the built-in tools.

Hi there! It's quite a common challenge to communicate through the RS485 and RS232 ports directly, mostly due to complex communication protocols involved in PLCs. The primary issue that arises while trying to directly output data registers from RS232 or RS485, typically, is the lack of a proper communication handshake between devices. The FX-232-BD or similar modules, as you mentioned, are typically used to simplify and regulate that process, and ensure proper communication protocol adherence. Modifying the C82 -> D8120 alone won't be enough, there are other register settings like the communication speed, stop bits, parity etc., which would need to be set as per your receiving device's configurations. Additionally, your PLC might need a PLC program written and downloaded into the PLC to actively send or output messages when required. I'd recommend giving that a look!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Can I communicate directly through the RS232 port on a Mitsubishi FX2N PLC without additional modules?

Answer: Answer: While additional modules like the FX-232-BD can facilitate RS communication, direct utilization of the RS232 port may require proper configuration and programming.

FAQ: 2. How can I modify C82 -> D8120 to alter the behavior of the RS232 and RS485 ports on the Mitsubishi FX2N PLC?

Answer: Answer: Modifying C82 -> D8120 involves adjusting the PLC's settings to configure the RS232 and RS485 ports for communication purposes. Refer to the PLC's documentation for specific instructions.

FAQ: 3. Is it possible for the Mitsubishi FX2N PLC to output data registers directly through the RS485 or RS232 port?

Answer: Answer: Yes, the Mitsubishi FX2N PLC can output data registers directly through the RS485 or RS232 port with proper configuration and programming. Bypassing the need for hardware middleware or programmer protocol may require thorough understanding of the PLC's communication capabilities.

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