Panasonic AFPX-COM4 Communication Cassette | Replacement, Equivalent & Selection Guide
The Panasonic AFPX-COM4 is a dual-port communication cassette designed for the FP-X series programmable logic controller (PLC). It provides simultaneous RS232C and RS485 communication, enabling flexible integration with HMIs, SCADA systems, inverters, and other serial devices in industrial automation environments. This page serves as a comprehensive selection guide, covering technical specifications, compatible replacements, and application scenarios to help engineers and procurement teams make informed decisions.
Technical Specifications
- Model: AFPX-COM4
- Brand: Panasonic (Nais)
- Series: FP-X
- Module Type: Communication Cassette
- Port 1: RS232C (D-Sub 9-pin)
- Port 2: RS485 (terminal block)
- Communication Protocol: MEWTOCOL-COM, Modbus RTU, general-purpose serial
- Baud Rate: Up to 115,200 bps
- Power Supply: Supplied via FP-X CPU cassette slot
- Compatible CPU Units: FP-X C14, C30, C60 series
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C
- Weight: Approx. 350 g (packaged)
- HS Code: 853710
- Country of Origin: Japan
Compatible Replacement & Equivalent Models
If the AFPX-COM4 is unavailable or discontinued, the following models may serve as functional replacements depending on your application requirements:
- AFPX-COM1 – Single RS232C port cassette for FP-X; suitable when only one serial port is needed
- AFPX-COM2 – Single RS485 port cassette; use when RS232C is not required
- AFPX-COM3 – RS232C + RS232C dual-port cassette; alternative when two RS232C ports are needed
- AFPX-COM5 – RS232C + USB port cassette; suitable for PC-direct programming and HMI connection
- AFP7CPS31E – FP7 series communication module (requires CPU upgrade to FP7 platform)
- Third-party RS232C/RS485 converters – Can be used with AFPX-COM1 or COM2 as a workaround in legacy systems
Note: Always verify electrical compatibility, protocol support, and cassette slot availability before substituting modules.
Why Choose the Original AFPX-COM4
- Dual-port simultaneous communication – RS232C and RS485 active at the same time, reducing wiring complexity
- Native MEWTOCOL-COM support – Seamless integration with Panasonic HMIs (GT series) and SCADA without additional configuration
- Compact cassette form factor – Plug-in design with no additional DIN rail space required
- Proven reliability – Manufactured to Panasonic industrial standards with long MTBF ratings
- Full software support – Compatible with FPWIN Pro 7 and FPWIN GR programming environments
Typical Applications
- HMI / touchscreen panel connection via RS232C
- Multi-drop RS485 network with inverters, servo drives, or smart sensors
- Modbus RTU master/slave communication in process control systems
- SCADA data acquisition from FP-X CPU units
- Building automation and HVAC control panels
- Food & beverage packaging line controllers
- Conveyor and material handling systems
System Compatibility
- Compatible PLC Series: Panasonic FP-X (C14R, C14T, C30R, C30T, C60R, C60T)
- Programming Software: FPWIN Pro 7, FPWIN GR
- Compatible HMIs: Panasonic GT series, Pro-face, Weintek, Weinview, Delta DOP series (via RS232C)
- Compatible Drives: Panasonic MINAS A5/A6, Mitsubishi FR series, Delta VFD series (via RS485 Modbus RTU)
- Not compatible with: FP0, FP1, FP-Sigma, FP7 series (different cassette slot design)
Selection Guide
Use the table below to select the correct FP-X communication cassette for your project:
| Model | Port 1 | Port 2 | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| AFPX-COM1 | RS232C | — | Single HMI connection |
| AFPX-COM2 | RS485 | — | Multi-drop RS485 network only |
| AFPX-COM3 | RS232C | RS232C | Two separate RS232C devices |
| AFPX-COM4 | RS232C | RS485 | HMI + RS485 network (recommended) |
| AFPX-COM5 | RS232C | USB | PC programming + HMI |
Recommendation: For most industrial panel applications requiring both HMI connectivity and field device networking, the AFPX-COM4 is the optimal choice.
Quality Assurance & Sourcing
- All units sourced from authorized distributors or verified industrial surplus channels
- Each module undergoes visual inspection and functional verification prior to shipment
- Original Panasonic packaging and documentation preserved where available
- Traceability records maintained for B2B procurement compliance
- Warranty: 90-day return-to-base warranty on all stocked units
How to Order
- Confirm your FP-X CPU model and available cassette slot (left or right)
- Verify required communication ports (RS232C / RS485 / USB)
- Add AFPX-COM4 to cart or contact us for bulk pricing
- Provide your project details for technical pre-sales support
- Receive order confirmation with lead time and shipping estimate
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📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +0086 19859288691
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Replacement & Compatibility FAQ
Q: Can AFPX-COM4 replace AFPX-COM2?
A: Yes, AFPX-COM4 is a superset of COM2 — it includes the RS485 port plus adds RS232C. No firmware changes required.
Q: Is AFPX-COM4 compatible with FP0R CPUs?
A: No. FP0R uses a different cassette slot format. Use AFPX0-COM4 or equivalent FP0R-specific modules.
Q: Can I use two AFPX-COM4 cassettes in one FP-X CPU?
A: FP-X CPUs support up to two cassette slots (left and right). Two COM4 units can be installed simultaneously for up to 4 serial ports.
Q: Does AFPX-COM4 support Modbus TCP?
A: No. COM4 supports Modbus RTU over RS485 only. For Modbus TCP, use the AFPX-COM6 Ethernet cassette.
Q: What is the lead time for AFPX-COM4?
A: In-stock units ship within 1–3 business days. For out-of-stock items, typical lead time is 2–4 weeks. Contact us for current availability.
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