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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Hey there! As someone just starting out with PLCs, I totally get why you&#39;re asking this question. The most common rookie mistake I see beginners make is choosing based on brand reputation or what they&#39;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 &#39;Siemens is the industry standard&#39; and go for the S7-1200, but if you&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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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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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