Mitsubishi A68B (A68-B) 8-Slot PLC Base Unit – MELSEC-A Series Programmable Controller
Imagine a critical production line suddenly halting — conveyor belts frozen, robotic arms locked mid-cycle, and process data lost — all because the backbone of the control system, the PLC base unit, has failed. Without a reliable base unit like the Mitsubishi A68B, every I/O module, power supply, and CPU card loses its physical and electrical foundation. The A68B is not merely a passive rack; it is the structural and communicative core that makes coordinated machine control possible. Its absence brings an entire automated system to a standstill.
The Mitsubishi A68B (A68-B) is an 8-slot base unit belonging to the legendary MELSEC-A Series — Mitsubishi Electric’s foundational programmable controller platform that defined industrial automation standards across Asia, Europe, and the Americas for decades. Within the MELSEC-A family, the A68B occupies the mid-range capacity tier, offering eight module slots that balance system density with installation flexibility. It is widely deployed in automotive assembly, food processing, chemical plants, and discrete manufacturing environments where proven reliability and broad module compatibility are non-negotiable.
Technical Specifications
- Model Number: A68B / A68-B
- Series: MELSEC-A Series (Mitsubishi Electric)
- Type: PLC Base Unit (Backplane / Rack)
- Number of Slots: 8 slots
- Compatible CPUs: MELSEC-A Series CPU modules (e.g., A1CPU, A2CPU, A3CPU, A1SCPU, A2SCPU)
- Compatible Power Supply: MELSEC-A Series power supply modules (e.g., A61P, A62P, A63P)
- Bus Type: MELSEC-A parallel bus
- Weight: Approx. 840 g
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Country of Origin: Japan
Key Features & Benefits
- 8-Slot Capacity: Accommodates up to 8 MELSEC-A Series I/O, special function, or communication modules, providing substantial system expansion within a compact footprint.
- Robust Backplane Bus: The integrated parallel bus ensures high-speed, stable data exchange between the CPU and all installed modules, minimizing latency in time-critical control loops.
- Wide Module Compatibility: Accepts the full range of MELSEC-A Series modules — digital I/O, analog I/O, positioning, network, and intelligent function modules — enabling highly customized control architectures.
- Proven Industrial Durability: Engineered to withstand industrial environments with vibration, electrical noise, and temperature fluctuations common in factory floors.
- DIN Rail & Panel Mount Ready: Supports standard installation methods for flexible cabinet integration.
- Long-Term Parts Availability: As a widely used legacy platform, the A68B remains available through specialist suppliers like Konmask.com, supporting long-lifecycle machine maintenance strategies.
Industry & Equipment Applications
- Automotive Manufacturing: Body welding lines, paint shop conveyors, engine assembly stations
- Food & Beverage Processing: Bottling lines, packaging machines, temperature-controlled mixing systems
- Chemical & Petrochemical Plants: Batch process control, valve sequencing, safety interlock systems
- Discrete Manufacturing: CNC machine tool integration, press control, material handling
- Water Treatment: Pump station control, filtration process automation
- Building Automation: HVAC control panels, elevator systems, power distribution monitoring
System Integration & Compatible Parts
The A68B base unit is designed to work seamlessly within the MELSEC-A Series ecosystem. Commonly paired components include:
- CPU Modules: A1CPU, A2CPU, A3CPU, A1SCPU, A2SCPU, A3NCPU
- Power Supply Modules: A61P, A62P, A63P, A65P
- Digital I/O Modules: AX40, AX80, AY40, AY80 series
- Analog Modules: A68AD, A62DA, A616AD
- Network Modules: A1SJ71AP23Q (MELSECNET), A1SJ71UC24-R2 (RS-232C)
- Extension Base Units: A68B can be used as a main base; pair with A52B, A55B, or A58B for system expansion
Our Quality Assurance Process
At Konmask.com, every MELSEC-A Series component undergoes a rigorous multi-stage inspection before shipment:
- Visual Inspection: Examination of PCB, connectors, slot guides, and housing for physical damage or corrosion
- Functional Verification: Where applicable, modules are bench-tested for bus continuity and slot integrity
- Authenticity Check: Serial number and label verification against known Mitsubishi Electric production standards
- Anti-Static Packaging: All units are packed in ESD-safe bags with foam cushioning for safe international transit
- Documentation: Shipment includes inspection report and product datasheet upon request
How to Order
- Submit your inquiry via the Contact Us page or email support@konmask.com
- Provide your required quantity, delivery destination, and any urgency requirements
- Receive a formal quotation within 1 business day
- Confirm order and arrange payment via T/T, L/C, or other agreed terms
- Shipment dispatched with full tracking information and export documentation
Why Choose Konmask.com?
- ✅ Specialist in Industrial Automation Components — PLC, DCS, HMI, drives, and more from leading global brands
- ✅ Global B2B Export Experience — Serving clients in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond
- ✅ Competitive Pricing — Direct sourcing relationships enable cost-effective procurement for MRO and project needs
- ✅ Fast Response — Dedicated sales engineers respond to inquiries within 24 hours
- ✅ Secure Packaging & Reliable Logistics — ESD-safe packing, DHL/FedEx/UPS express and sea freight options
- ✅ After-Sales Support — Technical consultation and compatibility guidance available post-purchase
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Mitsubishi A68B the same as the A68-B?
A: Yes. A68B and A68-B refer to the same product. The hyphenated form (A68-B) is an alternate notation used in some Mitsubishi Electric documentation and regional catalogs.
Q: How many modules can the A68B accommodate?
A: The A68B provides 8 module slots, suitable for a combination of CPU, I/O, and special function modules within the MELSEC-A Series.
Q: Is the A68B still in production?
A: The MELSEC-A Series has been discontinued by Mitsubishi Electric. However, Konmask.com maintains stock of genuine and refurbished units to support ongoing maintenance and replacement needs.
Q: What power supply module is compatible with the A68B?
A: The A68B is compatible with MELSEC-A Series power supply modules including the A61P, A62P, A63P, and A65P.
Q: Can I use the A68B as an extension base unit?
A: The A68B is primarily used as a main base unit. For system expansion, Mitsubishi offers dedicated extension base units (A52B, A55B, A58B) that connect to the main base via extension cables.
Q: What is the lead time for the Mitsubishi A68B?
A: Lead time depends on current stock levels. Please contact us at support@konmask.com for real-time availability and delivery estimates.
© 2026 Konmask.com. All rights reserved.
Original Source: https://Konmask.com
Contact: support@konmask.com | +0086 19859288691
