MicroSmart PLUS PLC

More Power, More Performance, More Connectivity

Expanding upon the groundbreaking IDEC FC6A Micro PLC, the FC6A Plus can control large machines or entire small-scale manufacturing facilities with:

  • Up to 2060 I/O, with a maximum of 511 analog I/O
  • Extremely fast basic instruction execution of 21 nanoseconds
  • 800 kB (100K steps) of program memory
  • Extensive data memory, more than double the capacity of a typical micro PLC

MicroSmart FC6A Plus Brochure
Download Brochure (PDF)

MicroSmart FC6A Plus Datasheet
Download datasheet (PDF)

MicroSmart FC6A Plus

  • 16 I/O

  • 32 I/O

Superior Design

Dual RJ45 Ethernet Port

One port is configured for office network and the second port is configured for control network. Flawless maintenance and control.

SD Memory Slot
  • Data Logging – critical for applications that require record keeping such as Pharmaceutical and Medical industries
  • Store and transfer user program
    • OEM can easily update their machines program using standard SD Memory card
    • Convenient and cost effective
  • Update Firmware for CPU and expansion modules can easily be updated using SD memory card
  • Recipe Functions
    • Recipe files can be read from and written to the SD memory card

USB Bus Power

The MicroSmart PLC’s USB port can be used to transfer its software program from a PC to the CPU without connecting a power supply. The USB connection from the PC also provides power to the CPU, so it doesn’t have to be plugged in for program upload or download, or for monitoring by a PC.

Removable Terminal Blocks

Simplifies wiring, installation and module replacement- just wire a terminal block and plug it into a module.

Replaceable Battery
Battery Status LED Battery Status
OFF Normal Suff. battery level
Blinking (1 s cycle) Warning Low battery level
On Dead battery Battery is almost dead. Or no battery

The MicroSmart PLC’s battery can be easily replaced. Warning of low battery level is provided both at the CPU via an LED, and through a special data register which can be used to trigger an alarm on the HMI or send an email alert.

Condition Battery Status
Battery Voltage (D8056)> 2,300 Normal Suff. battery level
2,300 > Battery Voltage (D8056)> 2,000 Warning Low battery level
2,300 > Battery Voltage (D8056) Dead battery Battery is almost dead. Or no battery

Battery indicator using special data register D8056. Could trigger alarm on HMI or send Email alert to replace new battery.

Up to 63 Expansion Modules

Up to 63 expansion modules make the MicroSmart FC6A Plus the most powerfule in the market.

Cartridge Expansion or HMI Module
  • Cartridge Expansion Module Features:
    • Ability to expand digital, analog, serial or Bluetooth cartridges
    • Up to two cartridges can be configures
  • HMI Module Features:
    • An optional HMI module can be added to provide operator interface. It’s a great way to provide visual indication and allow the operators to adjust any parameters in the PLC. The HMI module can also accommodate an optional plug-in analog cartridge, and it has an integral Ethernet port.

Bluetooth, Analog & Descrete I/O Cartridges

These cost-effective I/O cartridges allow users to add I/O point and Bluetooth communication.

Ultimate Performance

Fast Execution Time

Processing time for Basic instruction

2x

2 times faster than FC6A All-In-One

2.5x

2.5 times faster than FC5A Slim

  • 21ns

    FC6A Plus

  • 42ns

    FC6A All-in-One

  • 56ns

    FC5A Slim

  • 700ns

    FC5A All-in-One

  • 1000ns

    FC4A

Maximum 2,060 Digital and 511 Analog I/O

Up to 63 digital I/O expansion modules can be configured.

FC6A Plus FC6A All-in-One FC5A Slim FC5A All-in-One FC4A FT1A
Maximum Digital I/O 2,060 520 512 88 512 48
Maximum Analog I/O 511 126 56 32 56 6
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Enormous 800kB (100,000 steps) programming memory

Handle large and more sophisticated program for bigger systems

Program Capacity (kByte)

  • FC6A Plus

  • FC6A All-in-One

  • FC5A Slim

  • FC5A All-in-One

  • FC4A

  • FT1A

Abundant Data Memory

You get more of everything!

Maximum 33 Serial Communication Ports

With the new combo RS232C/RS485 expansion module, up to 15 modules can be configured on the FC6A Plus system. Since both RS232C and RS485 can be used in parallel, a maximum of 30 serial communication ports can be configured. With 2 additional ports can be configured in the Expansion Base Module, a total of 33 serial communication ports can be utilized in the FC6A Plus system.

Built-in Real Time Clock

The MicroSmart PLC has a built-in real-time clock. Alternatively, the PLC can obtain time information from an SNTP server for time-based applications such as lighting controls.

Upgradable Firmware for CPU and expansion modules

The CPU and expansion modules have field-upgradeable firmware, making it easy to keep the MicroSmart PLC up to date.

  • Always get the latest features
  • No need to worry about old modules that not compatible with new features
  • Your machines can stay ahead of the curve years down the road

IIoT Ready

MQTT

The FC6A Plus PLC now supports the Sparkplug B protocol, further elevating its IIoT capabilities.

Sparkplug B enables efficient and standardized communication for IIoT applications through the MQTT protocol. It facilitates seamless data exchange between the PLC and MQTT-enabled platforms like Ignition by utilizing a lightweight, state-aware messaging format. This functionality simplifies integration, enhances interoperability, and provides real-time insights for industrial automation systems.

With this new functionality, the FC6A Plus becomes an even more powerful solution for industries requiring efficient and reliable MQTT-based communication, such as oil and gas, water and wastewater treatment, automotive, and more.

What is MQTT?

iOS and Android App

These free apps provide quick and convenient remote monitoring and control from smartphones and tablets. Users can upload and download PLC programs; monitor and update PLC status, data registers, internal relays, timers and counters, etc.; save, retrieve, and send files in cloud database such as Apple iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.; access logged data and manage files in SD memory card; and download system firmware.

 

 

FTP Communication

MicroSmart FC6A Plus CPU can be configured as FTP Client or Server to allow transferring of ladder program and logged data between company server and MicroSmart FC6A. It’s an convenient and effective way to remotely stay on top of your control system.

Bluetooth Communication

Bluetooth wireless communication with the MicroSmart FC6A Plus CPU can be established using the optional Bluetooth cartridge. Use your laptop/PC to monitor, download, and upload program wirelessly. Use your iOS and/or Android devices with Program File Manager tool to manage data in the PLC. Device such as bar code reader that’s equipped with Bluetooth capability can also be configured to communicate with the MicroSmart FC6A Plus CPU.

Web Server Functions

  • The user can easily be connected to the FC6A using standard web browser on a PC or any mobile devices. A standard web page or custom web page can be accessed to monitor and update any PLC parameters.
  • A built-in web page template is available if the user does not need to build his own.
  • Custom web pages also can be constructed using the built-in web page editor in WindLDR software.
    • The FC6A Plus has a built-in 5MB of memory to store the user’s web page.
    • Additional memory can be utilized using optional SD memory card that supports up to 32GB.

Networking

EtherNet/IP

MicroSmart FC6A Plus CPUs now support EtherNet/IP™ protocol. With the addition of industry-standard EtherNet/IP™ scanner capabilities, the FC6A Plus can now connect with, monitor, and control any I/O, variable speed drive, or other intelligent automation device using this popular industrial protocol. In addition, the FC6A Plus can be configured as an EtherNet/IP™ adapter, allowing it to interact with other peer and supervisory systems, such as PLCs and HMIs.

Modbus TCP and RTU protocol

FC6A supports both Modbus TCP and RTU. It can be easily be configured to be a Client (master) or Server (slave) on the Modbus network.

BACnet Protocol

  • BACnet is a communications protocol for building automation and control systems such as heating, and air-conditioning control (HVAC), lighting control, access control, and fire detection systems and their associated equipment
  • Building automation control protocol is now supported in the native Ethernet port of the MicroSmart FC6A Plus CPU.

Programming

Web Page Editor

WindLDR version 8+ introduced a new Web Page Editor where anyone can use it to create professional and dynamic web pages to monitor and control the MicroSmart FC6A PLC.

Remote I/O System


Streamline your industrial processes with our cutting-edge Remote I/O System.

Our powerful SX8R bus coupler module offers significant efficiency enhancements for your systems. Paired with our MicroSmart FC6A I/O modules, it facilitates the seamless integration of a remote I/O system that can redefine your expectations.


SX8R Bus Coupler Module

Our SX8R Bus Coupler offers the perfect blend of versatility, reliability, and performance, making it the ideal choice for industrial automation applications of any scale. Whether you're upgrading existing systems or building new installations, our Bus Coupler provides the connectivity and flexibility you need to succeed.

An exceptionally wide operating temperature range of -20 to +60 ˚C as well as IP20, and Class I Div 2 approval ratings, assures reliable operation in the toughest environment. This SX8R Bus Coupler is built for endurance and are backed by an industry-leading three-year warranty.

Experience seamless integration and enhanced efficiency with our Bus Coupler. Learn more



Many industrial applications require motion control, but users are often frustrated by the complexity and high cost of implementation. IDEC Corporation and AMCI, an established supplier of motion control systems, have partnered to address this issue by offering a simple yet highly capable stepper motion control system. This AMCI by IDEC product line includes controllers, stepper motors, a combo controller+drive, a combo drive+stepper motor, and the 3-in-1 controller+drive+stepper motor. When combined with an IDEC FC6A PLC and its embedded motion control software modules, these products allow users to quickly and simply implement single- and multi-axis motion control in a wide range of industries and applications.


What Makes up a Stepper Motion System?

Click on the products below for more information

FC6A MicroSmart

MicroSmart FC6A , a powerful PLC with up to 520 digital I/O and 126 analog I/O. The MicroSmart FC6A provides the power of a PAC (programmable automation controller) in a low-cost controller with a small form factor, making it an ideal fit for demanding applications. Learn more

Controller

A 2-axis motion controller that can be expanded up to 12 axes. It can accept encoder feedback to provides stall detection and move verification. It includes six discrete inputs for move conditioning and other functions, and four discrete outputs to indicate status and provide diagnostics. Learn more

Drive+Controller

AMCI by IDEC’s integrated Stepper controller+drive combo is a ground-breaking approach to PLC-based motion control systems. With its servo performance in a stepper motion hardware, the IANG1 series can be expanded up to 6 axes Learn more Learn more


Stepper Motor+Drive+Controller

AMCI by IDEC’s controller+drive+motor combo unit provides all-in-one motion control with all the features of the two-axis controller, drive and stepper motor. Learn more

Stepper+Drive

AMCI by IDEC’s motor+drive combo unit can control one to six axes of motion, and it combines all the features of the two-axis controller and the drive into a single unit.. Learn more

Drive+Controller

AMCI by IDEC’s integrated Stepper controller+drive combo is a ground-breaking approach to PLC-based motion control systems. With its servo performance in a stepper motion hardware, the IANG1 series can be expanded up to 6 axes Learn more


Stepper Motor+Drive+Controller

AMCI by IDEC’s controller+drive+motor combo unit provides all-in-one motion control with all the features of the two-axis controller, drive and stepper motor. Learn more

Stepper Motor

AMCI by IDEC’s stepper motor comes in standard NEMA 23 frame sizes with output torque rating of 130 and 240 oz-in.

Learn more

Application Examples

Advances in technology couple with customer demands brings about a push to combine one or more of the basic system components into one product.

Linear Applications

Linear Applications

Flow Wrapper

Flow Wrapper

Rotary Applications

Rotary Applications

Stepper Motion Controls

Type Part Number Description
Controller IANF2E 2-axis stepper controller master module with Modbus TCP
Controller IANF2 2-axis stepper controller expansion module with Modbus TCP
Controller+Drive IANG1E 1-axis stepper indexer + driver master module with Modbus TCP
Controller+Drive IANG1 1-axis stepper indexer + driver expansion module with Modbus TCP
Drive+Motor ISMD23-130 Size 23, 2 stack motor, 130 oz-in with Integrated Drive
Drive+Motor ISMD23-240 Size 23, 3 stack motor, 240 oz-in with Integrated Drive
Stepper Motor ISM2340-130 Size 23, 130 oz-in motor w/ single shaft
Stepper Motor ISM2340-240 Size 23, 240 oz-in motor w/ single shaft
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E-130E Size 23, 130 oz-in motor+indexer+drive+encoder w/ Modbus TCP
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E-130 Size 23, 130 oz-in motor+indexer+drive w/ Modbus TCP
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-130-M12 Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 130 oz-in motor+indexer+drive w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-130-M12S Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 130 oz-in motor w/ shaft seal +indexer+drive w/Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch - IP64 Rated
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-130E-M12 Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 130 oz-in motor+indexer+drive+relative encoder w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-130E-M12S Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 130 oz-in motor w/ shaft seal+indexer+drive+relative encoder w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch - IP64 Rated
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-130A-M12 Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 130 oz-in motor+indexer+drive+absolute encoder w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-130A-M12S Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 130 oz-in motor w/ shaft seal+indexer+drive+absolute encoder w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch - IP64 Rated
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E-240 Size 23, 240 oz-in motor+indexer+drive w/ Modbus TCP
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E-240E Size 23, 240 oz-in motor+indexer+drive+relative encoder w/ Modbus TCP
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-240-M12 Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 240 oz-in motor+indexer+drive w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-240-M12S Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 240 oz-in motor w/ shaft seal+indexer+drive w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch - IP64 Rated
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-240E-M12S Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 240 oz-in motor w/ shaft seal+indexer+drive+relative encoder w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch - IP64 Rated
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-240A-M12 Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 240 oz-in motor+indexer+drive+absolute encoder w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-240A-M12S Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 240 oz-in motor w/ shaft seal+indexer+drive+absolute encoder w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch - IP64 Rated
Motor+Drive+Controller ISMD23E2-240E-M12 Size 23 w/ M12 connectors, 240 oz-in motor+indexer+drive+relative encoder w/ Modbus TCP and DLR w/ embedded switch