PLC migrates to surface-mount technology

FX1616-BA PLC has undergone a production redesign, transitioning it to modern, surface-mount technology (SMT). This update improves the controller’s long-term component availability, manufacturing consistency and supply-chain resilience, while maintaining identical specifications, functionality and part number. FX1616-BA retains the same electrical specifications, form factor, firmware compatibility, and programming environment. Users can implement the updated unit with no required requalification, redesign, software modification or panel changes.

Migrating from legacy, through-hole ICs to widely supported SMT reduces exposure to component obsolescence, and expands second-source options, strengthening long-term supply assurance for OEM production. By adopting fully automated SMT assembly, FX1616-BA enhances production repeatability and reduces variability associated with manual-insertion processes. Its updated design also minimizes mechanical stress risks commonly associated with larger DIP packages.

FX1616-BA’s redesign also incorporates modern, widely available silicon platforms, including an updated RS-485 driver class device, such as THVD2410 series class, which reduces dependance on legacy, through-hole inventory. It also retains the same electrical specific16 digital inputs and 16 relay outputs, RS-232/RS-485 communications, real-time clock with battery backup, DIN rail mounting and firmware.

Triangle Research International Inc. (TRi PLC)