What Is the IDEC FC6A MicroSmart PLC? Hardware Overview and Specifications

Quick Answer

The IDEC FC6A MicroSmart is a compact all-in-one PLC with built-in discrete and analog I/O, Ethernet and serial ports, SD card data logging, and expansion capability up to 512 I/O points. It is programmed using WindLDR, a free software package from IDEC.

IDEC Corporation Overview

IDEC Corporation was founded in 1945 in Osaka, Japan. The company manufactures automation components including PLCs, HMI touch panels, safety relays, pushbuttons, sensors, and power supplies. IDEC's MicroSmart PLC line competes with Allen-Bradley Micro800, Siemens S7-1200, and Mitsubishi FX5U in the compact controller market segment.

FC6A Hardware Overview

The FC6A uses an all-in-one base unit design — the CPU, power supply, and base I/O are integrated into a single DIN-rail mount module. Key hardware features:

• Built-in Ethernet port (10/100 Mbps) with Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP adapter, and web server
• Built-in serial port (RS-232C or RS-485) with Modbus RTU support
• SD card slot for data logging and program backup
• Real-time clock with battery backup
• Onboard high-speed counters (up to 50 kHz) and pulse outputs
• Operating temperature: -20°C to 55°C

FC6A CPU Variants

• Slim Type (16 I/O) — Smallest footprint for space-constrained applications. 8 digital inputs, 6 digital outputs, 2 analog inputs.
• Plus Type (24-40 I/O) — Mid-range with more built-in I/O including analog channels. Available in 24 and 40 I/O configurations.
• Communication Type — Additional serial ports for multi-protocol applications (Modbus RTU + BACnet, etc.).

Onboard I/O Types

• Discrete inputs — 24VDC sinking or sourcing
• Discrete outputs — Relay, transistor (sinking or sourcing)
• Analog inputs — 0-10V, 4-20mA, 0-20mA (12-bit resolution)
• Analog outputs — 0-10V, 4-20mA
• High-speed counters — Up to 50 kHz, single-phase or two-phase encoder input
• Pulse outputs — Up to 50 kHz for stepper motor or positioning control

FC6A vs FC5A — Key Differences

• FC6A has built-in Ethernet; FC5A requires an expansion module
• FC6A supports structured text programming; FC5A does not
• FC6A has higher expansion capacity (512 vs 126 I/O points)
• FC6A has faster scan times and more memory
• Both use WindLDR programming software

FC6A vs Allen-Bradley Micro800 vs Siemens S7-1200

The FC6A competes directly with Rockwell's Micro800 series and Siemens' S7-1200. Key differentiators: WindLDR is free (vs. paid licenses for CCW and TIA Portal), the FC6A has native BACnet MS/TP for HVAC applications, and IDEC's pricing is typically 20-40% below comparable Allen-Bradley or Siemens hardware. However, Allen-Bradley and Siemens have larger integrator networks and more extensive ecosystem support.

Typical Applications

• HVAC systems — Rooftop unit control, chiller plant sequencing, VAV box control with BACnet
• Packaging machines — Compact footprint with high-speed counter and pulse output for motion
• Oilfield RTU replacement — Low-cost controller with Modbus RTU/TCP for wellsite pump control and tank monitoring
• Water/wastewater — Small pump station and lift station control with analog I/O and data logging