Mitsubishi’s older MR-J2 servo series is on the road to retirement by 2022, meaning factories using the device will need to migrate to the successor MR-J4 series. Beginning the process now rather than waiting until the last minute is certainly the best option, and although some issues can come up, the process of hardware migration will typically go smoothly if done properly.
But the hardware transition is not the only concern. You also need to shift data from the old system to the new – and Mitsubishi’s software migration tools are the key to making that happen.
Parameter data from your MR-J2 data can be relatively easily converted to the MR-J4. The J2’s setup software reads the parameters from the MR-J2S and saves them as a parameter file. Using the parameter converter function of the MR Configurator 2, the file is converted to fit the J4, then written to the new amplifier.
MR-J2S projects can also be converted for use on the J4. GX Works 2 and MT Works 2 are both programs that can be used for this process. Both of them possess a project conversion function that allows the motion controller to be updated, and also converts servo parameters to be used on the new device.
The physical tools needed to complete the migration process vary depending on the situation:
- Replace the amplifier: This requires an MR-J4-T20 conversion unit, as well as a set of conversion cables.
- Replace the amplifier and motor: This requires the MR-J4-T20 and conversion cables, as well as an encoder conversion cable and a power conversion cable.
- If the full system is being replaced, only the conversion cables, encoder conversion cable, and power conversion cable are required.
With these tools, the total migration from the J2 servo to the MR-J4 can be completed quickly and easily, preserving your existing data and preventing any unnecessary or excessive downtime. And with the help of Mitsubishi and an expert partner like Allied Automation, you can be sure it’s done right.
Documents:
Transition Sheet, A Sample J2S to J4 Migration
Transition Brochure
Transition Handbook
J2S Catalog
J4 Catalog