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As a beginner with zero PLC experience, what's the most common 'rookie mistake' when choosing between Siemens S7-1200 vs Mitsubishi FX series for a simple conveyor system, and how can I avoid wasting $5,000 on the wrong hardware?
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LeahFoster
2025-11-24
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Hey there! As someone just starting out with PLCs, I totally get why you're asking this question. The most common rookie mistake I see beginners make is choosing based on brand reputation or what they've heard about, rather than actually evaluating their specific needs and local support.For a simple conveyor system, the biggest trap is over-engineering. You might think 'Siemens is the industry standard' and go for the S7-1200, but if you're in Asia or have easier access to Mitsubishi support, the FX series could be more cost-effective and easier to get help with.The key to avoiding that $5,000 mistake is to ask yourself: Who will program and maintain this? What's the local availability of parts and support? How complex is my conveyor really? Sometimes the cheaper option is actually the smarter choice for simple applications.Start by listing your exact requirements - I/O points needed, communication protocols, and most importantly, who's going to help you when things go wrong. That local support factor is often the difference between a smooth project and a $5,000 paperweight!
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