MELSEC-Q/L/QnA

Programming Manual (SFC)

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Before using MELSEC-Q, -L, or -QnA series programmable controllers, please read the manuals included with each product
and the relevant manuals introduced in those manuals carefully, and pay full attention to safety to handle the product correctly.
Make sure that the end users read the manuals included with each product, and keep the manuals in a safe place for future
reference.

CONDITIONS OF USE FOR THE PRODUCT

(1) Mitsubishi programmable controller ("the PRODUCT") shall be used in conditions;
i) where any problem, fault or failure occurring in the PRODUCT, if any, shall not lead to any major or serious accident;
and
ii) where the backup and fail-safe function are systematically or automatically provided outside of the PRODUCT for the
case of any problem, fault or failure occurring in the PRODUCT.
(2) The PRODUCT has been designed and manufactured for the purpose of being used in general industries.
MITSUBISHI SHALL HAVE NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY AND ALL
RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY BASED ON CONTRACT, WARRANTY, TORT, PRODUCT LIABILITY) FOR ANY
INJURY OR DEATH TO PERSONS OR LOSS OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY CAUSED BY the PRODUCT THAT ARE
OPERATED OR USED IN APPLICATION NOT INTENDED OR EXCLUDED BY INSTRUCTIONS, PRECAUTIONS, OR
WARNING CONTAINED IN MITSUBISHI'S USER, INSTRUCTION AND/OR SAFETY MANUALS, TECHNICAL
BULLETINS AND GUIDELINES FOR the PRODUCT.
("Prohibited Application")
Prohibited Applications include, but not limited to, the use of the PRODUCT in;
• Nuclear Power Plants and any other power plants operated by Power companies, and/or any other cases in which the
public could be affected if any problem or fault occurs in the PRODUCT.
• Railway companies or Public service purposes, and/or any other cases in which establishment of a special quality
assurance system is required by the Purchaser or End User.
• Aircraft or Aerospace, Medical applications, Train equipment, transport equipment such as Elevator and Escalator,
Incineration and Fuel devices, Vehicles, Manned transportation, Equipment for Recreation and Amusement, and
Safety devices, handling of Nuclear or Hazardous Materials or Chemicals, Mining and Drilling, and/or other
applications where there is a significant risk of injury to the public or property.
Notwithstanding the above, restrictions Mitsubishi may in its sole discretion, authorize use of the PRODUCT in one or
more of the Prohibited Applications, provided that the usage of the PRODUCT is limited only for the specific
applications agreed to by Mitsubishi and provided further that no special quality assurance or fail-safe, redundant or
other safety features which exceed the general specifications of the PRODUCTs are required. For details, please
contact the Mitsubishi representative in your region.

INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Mitsubishi MELSEC-Q/L/QnA series programmable controllers.
Before using the product, please read this manual carefully and develop familiarity with the functions and performance of the
MELSEC-Q/L/QnA series programmable controllers to handle the product correctly.
When applying the program examples provided in this manual to an actual system, ensure the applicability and confirm that it
will not cause system control problems.
Please make sure that the end users read this manual.

1
 CONTENTS
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
CONDITIONS OF USE FOR THE PRODUCT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
RELEVANT MANUALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
TERMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION 7

1.1 Description of SFC Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

CHAPTER 2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION 18

2.1 Applicable CPU modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
2.2 Peripheral devices for SFC programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

CHAPTER 3 SPECIFICATIONS 20
3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
3.2 Device List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
3.3 Processing Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Processing time for SFC program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Processing time for S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction and S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3.4 Calculating the SFC Program Capacity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Method for calculating the SFC program capacity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Number of steps required for expressing the SFC diagram as SFC dedicated instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

CHAPTER 4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION 43

4.1 List of SFC Diagram Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
4.2 Steps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Step (without step attribute). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Initial step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Dummy step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Coil HOLD step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Operation HOLD step (without transition check) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Operation HOLD step (with transition check) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Reset step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Block START step (with END check). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Block START step (without END check) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
End step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Instructions that cannot be used with operation outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
4.3 Transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Serial transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Selection transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Parallel transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Jump transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Precautions when creating sequence programs for operation outputs (steps) and transition conditions . . . . . . 74
4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Step operation status check instruction (LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR, ORI) [Sn/BLm\Sn] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Forced transition check instruction (LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR, ORI) [TRn/BLm\TRn] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Block operation status check instruction (LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR, ORI) [BLm] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

2
 Active step batch readout (MOV and DMOV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Active step batch readout (BMOV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Block START & END instructions (SET, RST) [BLm]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Block STOP and RESTART instructions (PAUSE, RSTART) [BLm]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Step START and END instructions (SET, RST) [Sn/BLm\Sn] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Forced transition EXECUTE & CANCEL instructions (SET, RST) [TRn/BLm\TRn] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Active step change instruction (SCHG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Block switching instruction (BRSET) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
4.5 SFC Information Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

CONTENTS
Block START/END bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Step transition bit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Block STOP/RESTART bit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Block STOP mode bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Continuous transition bit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Number of active steps register. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
4.6 Step Transition Watchdog Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
SFC program start mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Block 0 START condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Output mode at block STOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Periodic execution block setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Operation mode at double block START . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Operation mode at transition to active step (double step START) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
SFC comment readout instruction (S(P). SFCSCOMR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
SFC transition comment readout instruction (S(P). SFCTCOMR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

CHAPTER 5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE 147

5.1 Whole Program Processing of Basic Model QCPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Whole program processing sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
5.2 QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU, QnACPU. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Whole program processing sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Execution type designation by instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
SFC program for program execution management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
SFC program execution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Block execution sequence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Step execution sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Continuous transition ON/OFF operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

CHAPTER 6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION 161

6.1 SFC Program START and STOP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
SFC program resumptive START procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
6.2 Block START and END . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
Block START methods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
Block END methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
6.3 Block Temporary Stop and Restart Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Block STOP methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Restarting a stopped block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167

3
 6.4 Step START (Activate) and END (Deactivate) Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Step START (activate) methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Step END (deactivate) methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Changing an active step status
(Not available for Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
6.5 Operation Methods for Continuous Transition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
6.6 Operation at Program Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Operation at program change made by write to PLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
Program change by online change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
Online change (inactive block) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

APPENDICES 178
Appendix 1 Special Relay and Special Register List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Special Relay (SM) List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Special Register (SD) List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
SFC Diagram Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
SFC Control Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Block/Step START, END, and STOP Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Basic model QCPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, Redundant CPU and QnACPU. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Universal model QCPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
LCPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Appendix 3 Restrictions on Basic Model QCPU, Universal Model QCPU,
and LCPU and Alternative Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Step Transition Watchdog Timer Replacement Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Periodic Execution Block Replacement Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Forced Transition Bit (TRn) Replacement Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Active Step Change Instruction (SCHG) Replacement Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

INDEX 200

INSTRUCTION INDEX 202

REVISIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .204
WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205
TRADEMARKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206

4
RELEVANT MANUALS
Manual name [manual number] Description Available
form
GX Developer Version 8 Operating Manual (SFC) Describes how to create SFC programs using the software package for Print book
[SH-080374E] creating SFC programs.
PDF
GX Works2 Version1 Operating Manual (Common) Describes system configurations, parameter settings, online operations Print book
[SH-080779ENG] (common to Simple project and Structured project) of GX Works2.
PDF
TYPE SW2IVD/NX-GPPQ GPP Software package Operating Describes how to create SFC programs using the software package for Print book
Manual (SFC) creating SFC programs.
PDF
[IB-66776]
QnUCPU User's Manual (Function Explanation, Program Describes the functions, programming procedures, devices, etc. Print book
Fundamentals) necessary to create programs using the QCPU.
PDF
[SH-080807ENG]
Qn(H)/QnPH/QnPRHCPU User's Manual(Function Describes the functions, programming procedures, devices, etc. Print book
Explanation, Program Fundamentals) necessary to create programs using the QCPU.
PDF
[SH-080808ENG]
MELSEC-L CPU Module User's Manual (Function Explanation, Describes the functions required for programming, programming Print book
Program Fundamentals) methods, and devices.
e-Manual
[SH-080889ENG]
PDF
MELSEC-Q/L Programming Manual (Common Instruction) Describes how to use sequence instructions, basic instructions, and Print book
[SH-080809ENG] application instructions.
e-Manual
PDF
QnACPU Programming Manual (Common Instructions) Describes how to use sequence instructions, basic instructions, and Print book
[SH-080810ENG] application instructions. PDF
QnACPU Programming Manual (Fundamentals) Describes the programming procedures, device names, parameters, Print book
[IB-66614] program types, etc. necessary to create programs.
PDF

e-Manual refers to the Mitsubishi FA electronic book manuals that can be browsed using a dedicated tool.
e-Manual has the following features:
• Required information can be cross-searched in multiple manuals.
• Other manuals can be accessed from the links in the manual.
• The hardware specifications of each part can be found from the product figures.
• Pages that users often browse can be bookmarked.

5
 TERMS
Unless otherwise specified, this manual uses the following generic terms and abbreviations.
Generic term Description
Basic A generic term for the Q00JCPU, Q00CPU, and Q01CPU
Basic model QCPU
High Performance A generic term for the Q02CPU, Q02HCPU, Q06HCPU, Q12HCPU, and Q25HCPU
High Performance model QCPU
High-speed Universal model A generic term for the Q03UDVCPU, Q04UDVCPU, Q06UDVCPU, Q13UDVCPU, and Q26UDVCPU
QCPU
LCPU A generic term for the L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P, L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-
BT, and L26CPU-PBT
Process CPU A generic term for the Q02PHCPU, Q06PHCPU, Q12PHCPU, and Q25PHCPU
QCPU A generic term for the Basic model QCPU, High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, Redundant CPU, and
Universal model QCPU
QnACPU A generic term for the Q2ASCPU, Q2ASCPU-S1, Q2ASHCPU, Q2ASHCPU-S1, Q2ACPU, Q2ACPU-S1, Q3ACPU,
Q4ACPU, and Q4ARCPU
QnCPU A generic term for the Q02CPU
QnHCPU A generic term for the Q02HCPU, Q06HCPU, Q12HCPU, and Q25HCPU
QnPHCPU A generic term for the Q02PHCPU, Q06PHCPU, Q12PHCPU, and Q25PHCPU
QnPRHCPU A generic term for the Q12PRHCPU and Q25PRHCPU
QnUD(E)(H)CPU A generic term for the Q03UDCPU, Q03UDECPU, Q04UDHCPU, Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q06UDEHCPU,
Q10UDHCPU, Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU, Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDHCPU,
Q26UDEHCPU, Q50UDEHCPU, and Q100UDEHCPU
QnUDVCPU A generic term for the Q03UDVCPU, Q04UDVCPU, Q06UDVCPU, Q13UDVCPU, and Q26UDVCPU
QnUDPVCPU A generic term for the Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, and Q26UDPVCPU
Redundant CPU A generic term for the Q12PRHCPU and Q25PRHCPU
Universal A generic term for the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU, Q03UDCPU, Q03UDVCPU, Q03UDECPU,
Universal model QCPU Q04UDHCPU, Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU, Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU,
Q06UDEHCPU, Q10UDHCPU, Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, Q13UDEHCPU,
Q20UDHCPU, Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDHCPU, Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU, Q26UDEHCPU, Q50UDEHCPU, and
Q100UDEHCPU
Universal model Process CPU A generic term for the Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, and Q26UDPVCPU

6
1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1
SFC, an abbreviation for "Sequential Function Chart", is a control specification description format in which a sequence of
control operations is split into a series of steps to enable a clear expression of the program execution sequence and execution
conditions.
This manual describes the specifications, functions, instructions, programming procedures, etc. used to perform programming
with an SFC program using MELSAP3.
MELSAP3 can be used with the following CPU modules.
MELSAP3 conforms to the IEC Standard for SFC.
• Basic model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is 04122 or later
• High Performance model QCPU
• Process CPU
• Redundant CPU
• Universal model QCPU
• LCPU
• QnACPU
In this manual, MELSAP3 is referred to as SFC (program, diagram).

• The following functions cannot be executed if a parameter that sets the "high speed interrupt cyclic interval"
is loaded into a High Performance model QCPU of which the first 5 digits of the serial number are "04012"
or later. ( Step Transition Watchdog Timer,  Periodic execution block setting)
• The Qn(H)CPU-A (A mode) cannot use MELSAP3 described in this manual. The SFC function that can be
used by the Qn(H)CPU-A (A mode) is "MELSAP-II". For MELSAP-II, refer to the "MELSAP-II (SFC)
Programming Manual".

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
7
 1.1 Description of SFC Program
The SFC program consists of steps that represent units of operations in a series of machine operations. In each step, the
actual detailed control is programmed by using a ladder circuit.

The SFC program performs a series of operations, beginning from the initial step, proceeding to execute each subsequent
step as the transition conditions are satisfied, and ending with the END step.
• When the SFC program is started, the "initial" step is executed first.
• Execution of the initial step continues until transition condition 1 is satisfied. When this transition condition is satisfied,
execution of the initial step is stopped, and processing proceeds to the step which follows the initial step.
Processing of the SFC program continues from step to step in this manner until the END step has been executed.

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
8 1.1 Description of SFC Program
1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features
This section describes the SFC (MELSAP3) features.
1

Easy to design and maintain systems

It is possible to correspond the controls of the entire facility, mechanical devices of each station, and all machines to the
blocks and steps of the SFC program on a one-to-one basis. Because of this capability, systems can be designed and
maintained with ease even by those with relatively little knowledge of sequence programs.
Moreover, programs designed by other programmers using this format are much easier to decode than sequence programs.

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features 9
 Requires no complex interlock circuitry
Interlock circuits are used only in the operation output program for each step. Because no interlocks are required between
steps in the SFC program, it is not necessary to consider interlocks with regard to the entire system.

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
10 1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features
Block and step configurations can easily be changed for new control applications
• A total of 320 blocks *1 can be created in an SFC program.
1
• Up to 512 steps *1 can be created per block.
• Up to 2k sequence steps can be created for all blocks for operation outputs.
• Each transition condition can be created in only one ladder block.
Reduced tact times, as well as easier debugging and trial run operations are possible by dividing blocks and steps as follows:
• Divide blocks properly according to the operation units of machines.
• Divide steps in each block properly.

*1 For the following CPU modules, 128 blocks and 128 steps can be created.
 Basic model QCPU
 Universal model QCPU (Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU)
 LCPU (L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P)

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features 11
 Creation of multiple initial steps is possible
Multiple processes can easily be executed and combined. Initial steps are linked using a "selection coupling" format. When
multiple initial steps (S0 to S3) are active, the step where the transition condition (t4 to t7) immediately prior to the selected
coupling is satisfied becomes inactive, and a transition to the next step occurs.
Moreover, when the transition condition immediately prior to an active step is satisfied, the next step is executed in
accordance with the parameter settings.

Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU cannot be selected in the parameter setting. It
operates in the default "Transfer" mode.
• Wait: Transition to the next step occurs after waiting for the next step to become inactive.
• Transfer: Transition to the next step occurs even if the next step is active. (Default)
• Pause: An error occurs if the next step is active.

Linked steps can also be changed at each initial step.

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
12 1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features
Program design is easy due to a wealth of step attributes
A variety of step attributes can be assigned to each step. Used singly for a given control operation, or in combination, these
1
attributes greatly simplify program design procedures.

■Types of HOLD steps, and their operations

• Coil HOLD step
• After a transition, operation output processing continues (is maintained), and the coil output status at the
time when the transition condition is satisfied is maintained regardless of the ON/OFF status of the
interlock condition (X0).
• Transition will not occur even if the transition condition is satisfied again.
• Convenient for maintaining an output until the block in question is completed (hydraulic motor output,
pass confirmation signal, etc.).

• Operation HOLD step (no transition check)

• Even after a transition, operation output processing continues (is maintained), and when the interlock
condition (X0) turns ON/OFF, the coil output (Y10) also turns ON/OFF.
• Transition will not occur if the transition condition is satisfied again.
• Convenient for repeating the same operation (cylinder advance/retract, etc.) while the relevant block is
active.

• Operation HOLD step (with transition check)

• Even after a transition, operation output processing continues (is maintained), and when the interlock
condition (X0) turns ON/OFF, the coil output (Y10) also turns ON/OFF.
• When the transition condition is again satisfied, the transition is executed, and the next step is activated.
• Operation output processing is executed at the reactivated next step. When the transition condition is
satisfied, transition occurs, and the step is deactivated.
• Convenient for outputs where there is an interlock with the next operation, for example where machining
M0
is started on completion of a repeated operation (workpiece transport, etc.).

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features 13
 ■Reset step
When a HOLD status becomes unnecessary for machine control, or on selective branching to a manual
ladder occurs after an error detection, etc., a reset request can be designated for the HOLD step, deactivating
the step in question.

■Types of block START steps, and their operations

• Block START step (with END check)
• In the same manner as for a subroutine CALL-RET, a START source block transition will not occur until the
end of the START destination block is reached.
• Convenient for starting the same block several times, or to use several blocks together, etc.
• A convenient way to return to the START source block and proceed to the next process block when a given
process is completed in a processing line, for example.

• Block START step (Without END check)

• Even if the START destination block is active, a START source block transition occurs when the transition
condition associated with the block START step is satisfied. At this time, the processing of the START
destination block will be continued unchanged until the end step is reached.
• By starting another block at a given step, the START destination block can be controlled independently and
asynchronously with the START source block until processing of the current block is completed.

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
14 1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features
A given function can be controlled in a variety of ways according to the application
Block functions such as START, END, temporary stop, restart, and forced activation and ending of specified steps can be
1
controlled by SFC diagram symbols, SFC control instructions, or by SFC information registers.
Control method Description
Control by SFC diagram symbols Convenient for control of automatic operations with easy sequential control.
Control by SFC instructions Enables requests from program files other than the SFC, and is convenient for error processing, for example
after emergency stops, and interrupt control.
Control by SFC information devices Enables control of SFC peripheral devices, and is convenient for partial operations such as debugging or trial
runs.

Functions which can be controlled by these 3 methods are shown below.

Function Control Method
SFC Diagram SFC Control Instructions SFC Information Registers
Block START (with END wait)  
m
Block START (without END wait) SET BLm Block START/END bit ON
m
Block END RST BLm Block START/END bit OFF

Block STOP  PAUSE BLm Block STOP/RESTART bit ON

Restart stopped block  RSTART BLm Block STOP/RESTART bit OFF
Forced step activation  • SET Sn 
• SET BLm\Sn
Forced step END • RST SnRST BLm\Sn 
m

In cases where the same function can be executed by a number of methods, the first control method which has been
designated by the request output to the block or step in question will be the effective control method. Functions controlled by
a given control method can be canceled by another control method.

Ex.
For block START, the active block started by the SFC diagram can be forcibly ended by executing the SFC control instruction
before the END step or by turning OFF the block START/END bit of the SFC information devices.

A sophisticated edit function simplifies editing operations

A same-screen SFC diagram, operation output, and transition condition ladder display features a zoom function which can
split the screen 4 ways (right/left/upper/lower) to simplify program cut-and-paste operations. Moreover, advanced program
edit functions such as the SFC diagram or device search function, etc., make program creation and editing operations quick
and easy.

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features 15
 Displays with comments for easy understanding
Comments can be entered at each step and transition condition item. Up to 32 characters can be entered.

MELSAP3

Automatic scrolling function enables quick identification of machine system troubles

Active (execution) blocks and steps, as well as the execution of operation output/transition condition ladders can be monitored
by a peripheral device (with automatic scrolling function). This monitor function enables even those with little knowledge of
sequence programs to easily identify trouble spots.

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
16 1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features
Convenient trace function (when using GPPQ with QnACPU)
Blocks can be synchronized and traced, enabling the user to check the operation timing of multiple blocks. Moreover, the
1
trace results display screen can be switched to display the trace result details for each block.

[Trace Results Display]

Block
Active step numbers are
displayed (from smallest
number) for each block

Detailed display of specified block

[Trace Results Display]

Block 1 Block number where
trace occurred

Active step number

display

The trace function can be used during using GPPQ with QnACPU.

1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1.2 SFC (MELSAP3) Features 17
 2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
This chapter describes the system configuration of the SFC program.

2.1 Applicable CPU modules

MELSAP-3 (SFC programs) runs on the following CPU modules.
CPU module type Model name
Basic model QCPU*1 Q00JCPU, Q00CPU, Q01CPU
High Performance model QCPU Q02CPU, Q02HCPU, Q06HCPU, Q12HCPU, Q25HCPU
Process CPU Q02PHCPU, Q06PHCPU, Q12PHCPU, Q25PHCPU
Redundant CPU Q12PRHCPU, Q25PRHCPU
Universal model QCPU Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU, Q03UDCPU, Q03UDVCPU, Q03UDECPU, Q04UDHCPU,
Q04UDEHCPU, Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU, Q06UDEHCPU,
Q10UDHCPU, Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU,
Q20UDEHCPU,Q26UDHCPU, Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU, Q26UDEHCPU, Q50UDEHCPU, Q100UDEHCPU
LCPU L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P, L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT
QnACPU Q2ASCPU, Q2ASCPU-S1, Q2ASHCPU, Q2ASHCPU-S1, Q2ACPU, Q2ACPU-S1, Q3ACPU, Q4ACPU, Q4ARCPU

*1 Modules whose serial number (first five digits) is 04122 or later

2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
18 2.1 Applicable CPU modules
2.2 Peripheral devices for SFC programs
The following peripheral devices can be used to create, edit and monitor SFC programs. The numbers in the following table
mean (1): Basic model QCPU, (2): High Performance model QCPU, (3): Process CPU, (4): Redundant CPU, (5): Universal
model QCPU, (6): LCPU,. and (7): QnACPU.
: Available, : Not available, : Partly available
2
Peripheral Software package to be installed in a personal CPU module
device computer (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
Personal computer SW3D5C/F-GPPW-E       
(Windows
SW4D5C-GPPW-E or later       
compatible)
GX Developer Version 7.10L (SW7D5C-GPPW-E) or   *2    
later
GX Developer Version 8 (SW8D5C-GPPW-E) or later   *2    
*2
GX Developer Version 8.18U (SW8D5C-GPPW-E) or       
later
GX Developer Version 8.48A (SW8D5C-GPPW-E) or   *2  *1  
later
GX Developer Version 8.62Q (SW8D5C-GPPW-E) or   *2  *3  
later
GX Developer Version 8.68W (SW8D5C-GPPW-E) or     *4  
later
GX Developer Version 8.78G (SW8D5C-GPPW-E) or     *5  
later
GX Developer Version 8.89T (SW8D5C-GPPW-E) or     *5 *8 
later
GX Works2 Version 1.24A (SW1DNC-GXW2-E) or later     *5 *8 
GX Works2 Version 1.25B (SW1DNC-GXW2-E) or later     *6 *8 
*6 *7
GX Works2 Version 1.56J (SW1DNC-GXW2-E) or later       
GX Works2 Version 1.98C (SW1DNC-GXW2-E) or later     *9 *10 
GX Works2 Version 1.492N (SW1DNC-GXW2-E) or later       
PC/AT compatible SW2IVD-GPPQ-E       
personal computer
Q6PU        *11

*1 Available only with the Q02UCPU, Q03UDCPU, Q04UDHCPU, and Q06UDHCPU

*2 Available only with the Q12PHCPU and Q25PHCPU
*3 Available only with the Q02UCPU, Q03UDCPU, Q04UDHCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, and Q26UDHCPU
*4 Available only with the Q02UCPU, Q03UD(E)CPU, Q04UD(E)HCPU, Q06UD(E)HCPU, Q13UD(E)HCPU, and Q26UD(E)HCPU
*5 Available only with the Q00U(J)CPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU, Q03UD(E)CPU, Q04UD(E)HCPU, Q06UD(E)HCPU, Q10UD(E)HCPU,
Q13UD(E)HCPU, Q20UD(E)HCPU, and Q26UD(E)HCPU
*6 Available only with the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU, Q03UDCPU, Q03UDECPU, Q04UDHCPU, Q04UDEHCPU,
Q06UDHCPU, Q06UDEHCPU, Q10UDHCPU, Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU, Q20UDEHCPU,
Q26UDHCPU, Q26UDEHCPU, Q50UDEHCPU, and Q100UDEHCPU
*7 Available only with the L02CPU, L02CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, and L26CPU-PBT
*8 Available only with the L02CPU and L26CPU-BT
*9 Available only with the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU, Q03UDCPU, Q03UDVCPU, Q03UDECPU, Q04UDHCPU,
Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDEHCPU, Q10UDHCPU, Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU,
Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU, Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDHCPU, Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDEHCPU, Q50UDEHCPU, and
Q100UDEHCPU
*10 Available only with the L02SCPU, L02CPU, L02CPU-P, L06CPU, L26CPU, L26CPU-BT, and L26CPU-PBT
*11 Display is provided in list representation where an SFC diagram has been replaced by instructions. SFC diagrams cannot be created or
edited. Only creation and correction of ladders associated with operation outputs and transition conditions are allowed.

2 SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
2.2 Peripheral devices for SFC programs 19
 3 SPECIFICATIONS
This chapter describes the specifications of SFC programs.

3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC

Programs
This section describes the performance specifications of SFC programs.

Basic model QCPU

■Performance specifications
Item Q00JCPU Q00CPU Q01CPU
SFC program Capacity Max. 8k steps Max. 8k steps Max. 14k steps
Number of files Scannable SFC program: 1 file*1
Number of blocks Max. 128 blocks (0 to 127)
Number of SFC steps Max. 1024 steps for all blocks, max. 128 steps for one block
Number of branches Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. 1024 steps for all blocks, max. 128 steps for one block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence steps Max. 2k steps for all blocks*2, no restriction on one step
Number of transition condition sequence One ladder block only
steps

*1 SFC program for program management cannot be created.

*2 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

■Precautions for creating SFC programs

• Only one SFC program can be created. The created SFC program is a "scan execution type program".
• The Basic model QCPU allows creation of a total of two program files: one SFC program and one sequence program. (Two
sequence programs or two SFC programs cannot be created.)

• The created sequence program and SFC program names are MAIN.QPG and MAIN-SFC.QPG. (The file
names cannot be changed.)
• The SFC program and sequence program are processed in order of "sequence program" and "SFC
program". (The processing order of the SFC program and sequence program cannot be changed.)

3 SPECIFICATIONS
20 3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC Programs
QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU
■Performance specifications
Item Q02CPU, Q06HCPU, Q12HCPU, Q25HCPU,
Q02HCPU, Q06PHCPU Q12PHCPU, Q25PHCPU,
Q02PHCPU Q12PRHCPU Q25PRHCPU
SFC Capacity Max. 28k steps Max. 60k steps Max. 124k steps Max. 252k steps
program
Number of files Scannable SFC program: 2 files (1 normal SFC program and 1 program execution management
SFC program)*1
Number of blocks Max. 320 blocks (0 to 319) 3
Number of SFC steps Max. 8192 steps for all blocks, max. 512 steps for one block
Number of branches Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. 1280 steps for all blocks, max. 256 steps for one block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. 2k steps for all blocks*2, no restriction on one step
steps
Number of transition condition sequence One ladder block only
steps
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (10 timers)

Item Q00UJCPU Q00UCPU Q01UCPU Q02UCPU

SFC Capacity Max. 10k steps Max. 10k steps Max. 15k steps Max. 20k steps
program Number of files Scannable SFC program: 1 (normal SFC program only)
Number of blocks Max. 128 blocks (0 to 127)
Number of SFC steps Max. 1024 steps for all blocks, max. 128 steps for one block
Number of branches Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. 1024 steps for all blocks, max. 128 steps for one block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. 2k steps for all blocks*2, no restriction on one step
steps
Number of transition condition sequence One ladder block only
steps
Step transition watchdog timer function None

Item Q03UDCPU, Q04UDHCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q10UDHCPU, Q13UDHCPU,

Q03UDVCPU, Q04UDVCPU, Q06UDVCPU, Q10UDEHCPU Q13UDVCPU,
Q03UDECPU Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU,
Q04UDEHCPU Q06UDEHCPU Q13UDEHCPU
SFC Capacity Max. 30k steps Max. 40k steps Max. 60k steps Max. 100k steps Max. 130k steps
program
Number of files Scannable SFC program: 1 (normal SFC program only)
Number of blocks Max. 320 blocks (0 to 319)
Number of SFC steps Max. 16384 steps for all blocks*3*4, max. 512 steps for one block
Number of branches Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. 1280 steps for all blocks, max. 256 steps for one block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. 2k steps for all blocks*2, no restriction on one step
steps
Number of transition condition sequence One ladder block only
steps
Step transition watchdog timer function None

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC Programs 21
 Item Q20UDHCPU, Q26UDHCPU, Q50UDEHCPU Q100UDEHCPU
Q20UDEHCPU Q26UDVCPU,
Q26UDPVCPU,
Q26UDEHCPU
SFC Capacity Max. 200k steps Max. 260k steps Max. 500k steps Max. 1000k steps
program
Number of files Scannable SFC program: 1 (normal SFC program only)
Number of blocks Max. 320 blocks (0 to 319)
Number of SFC steps Max. 16384 steps for all blocks*3*4, max. 512 steps for one block
Number of branches Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. 1280 steps for all blocks, max. 256 steps for one block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. 2k steps for all blocks*2, no restriction on one step
steps
Number of transition condition sequence One ladder block only
steps
Step transition watchdog timer function None

3 SPECIFICATIONS
22 3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC Programs
Item L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L06CPU, L06CPU-P L26CPU, L26CPU-P,
L02CPU, L02CPU-P L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT
SFC Capacity Max. 20k steps Max. 60k steps Max. 260k steps
program
Number of files Scannable SFC program: 1 (normal SFC program only)
Number of blocks Max. 128 blocks (0 to 127) Max. 320 blocks (0 to 319)
Number of SFC steps Max. 1024 steps for all blocks, Max. 16384 steps for all blocks*5, max. 512 steps for one block
max. 128 steps for one block
Number of branches Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps
(including HOLD steps)
Max. 1024 steps for all blocks,
max. 128 steps for one block
Max. 1280 steps for all blocks, max. 256 steps for one block
3
Number of operation output sequence Max. 2k steps for all blocks*2, no restriction on one step
steps
Number of transition condition sequence One ladder block only
steps
Step transition watchdog timer function None

*1 Refer to Page 152 SFC program for program execution management for the program execution management SFC program.
*2 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.
*3 For the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12051" or earlier, the maximum number of SFC steps is 8192
for all blocks.
*4 For the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12052" or later, the maximum number of SFC steps can be
changed by changing the step relay (S) points in the Device tab of the PLC parameter dialog box. For settings, refer to the QnUCPU
User's Manual (Function Explanation, Program Fundamentals).
*5 For the modules whose serial number (first five digits) is "15101" or earlier, the maximum number of steps is 8,192.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC Programs 23
 ■Precautions for creating SFC programs
• The SFC programs that can be created are "scan execution type program" and "stand-by type program".
• Two SFC programs (one normal SFC program and one program execution management SFC program) can be set as a
scan execution type program.*2
• More than one SFC program can be set as a stand-by type program.
• The stand-by type SFC program is executed in the following procedure.

1. The currently executed scan execution type program is switched to the stand-by type program by using the POFF
instruction.
2. The stand-by type program to be executed is switched to the scan execution type program by using the PSCAN
instruction. Use the PSCAN instruction to switch the execution type of the program.
For details on the PSCAN and POFF instructions, refer to the Programming Manual (Common Instructions) for the CPU
module used.

*2

*1

*1 The Redundant CPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU cannot execute the low-speed execution type program.
*2 The program execution management cannot set on the Universal model QCPU and LCPU.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
24 3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC Programs
QnACPU
■Performance specifications
Item Q2ACPU, Q2ACPU-S1, Q3ACPU Q4ACPU,
Q2ASCPU, Q2ASCPU-S1, Q4ARCPU
Q2ASHCPU Q2ASHCPU-S1
SFC program Capacity Max. 28k steps Max. 60k steps Max. 92k steps Max. 124k steps
Number of files Scannable SFC program: 2 files (1 normal SFC program and 1 program execution
management SFC program)*1
Number of blocks Max. 320 blocks (0 to 319) 3
Number of SFC steps Max. 8192 steps for all blocks, max. 512 steps for one block
Number of branches Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. 1280 steps for all blocks, max. 256 steps for one block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. 2k steps for all blocks*3, no restriction on one step
steps
Number of transition condition One ladder block only
sequence steps
STEP- Break All-block break Batch break setting for all blocks
RUN Designated block break Up to 64 blocks can be set for the designated blocks.
operation
function Designated step break/number of Up to 64 points can be set for the designated steps./1 to 255 times
cycles
Continue Designated block continue 1 block is set for the designated block.
Designated step continue 1 point is set for the designated step.
Continue from designated step 1 point is set for the designated step.
Forced Forced block execution 1 block is set for the designated block.
execution Forced 1 step execution for 1 point is set for the designated step.
designated step
Forced block end 1 block is set for the designated block.
Forced step end 1 point is set for the designated step.
Step trace function*2 Trace memory capacity Max. 48k bytes for all blocks, 1 to 48k bytes for one block (1k byte units)
(A memory card is
Trace memory capacity after trigger 128 bytes to capacity setting of each block
required.)
Block designation Max. 12 blocks
Trigger step 1 step per block
Execution condition Per designated time or per scan
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (10 timers)

*1 Refer to Page 152 SFC program for program execution management for the program execution management SFC program.
*2 This function can be executed only when the software package for personal computer is SW2IVD-GPPW/SW2NX-GPPW.
*3 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC Programs 25
 ■Precautions for creating SFC programs
• The SFC programs that can be created are "scan execution type program" and "stand-by type program".
• Two SFC programs (one normal SFC program and one program execution management SFC program) can be set as a
scan execution type program.
• More than one SFC program can be set as a stand-by type program.
• The stand-by type SFC program is executed in the following procedure.
1. The currently executed scan execution type program is switched to the stand-by type program. Use the POFF instruction
to switch the execution type of the program. (Refer to the Programming Manual (Common Instructions) for the CPU
module used.)
2. The stand-by type program to be executed is switched to the scan execution type program. Use the PSCAN instruction
to switch the execution type of the program. (Refer to the Programming Manual (Common Instructions) for the CPU
module used.)

3 SPECIFICATIONS
26 3.1 Performance Specifications Related to SFC Programs
3.2 Device List
This section describes the transition conditions of SFC programs and devices used for operation output.

Device list of Basic model QCPU

Classification Type Device name Default Parameter setting
Point Range range

Internal user
device
Bit device Input 2048 points X0 to X7FF Hexadecimal Can be changed within
16.4k words.*3
3
Output 2048 points Y0 to Y7FF Hexadecimal
Internal relay 8192 points M0 to M8191 Decimal
Latch relay 2048 points L0 to L2047 Decimal
Annunciator 1024 points F0 to F1023 Decimal
Edge relay 1024 points V0 to V1023 Decimal
Step relay 2048 points S0 to S127/block Decimal
Link relay 2048 points B0 to B7FF Hexadecimal
Link special relay 1024 points SB0 to SB3FF Hexadecimal
Word Timer*1 512 points T0 to T511 Decimal
device
Retentive timer*1 0 point (ST0 to ST511) Decimal
Counter*1 512 points C0 to C511 Decimal
Data register 11136 points D0 to D1135 Hexadecimal
Link register 2048 points W0 to W7FF Hexadecimal
Link special register 1024 points SW0 to SW3FF Hexadecimal
Internal system Bit device Function input 16 points FX0 to FXF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Function output 16 points FY0 to FYF Hexadecimal
Special relay 1024 points SM0 to SM1023 Decimal
Word Function register 5 points FD0 to FD4 Decimal
device
Special register 1024 points SD0 to SD1023 Decimal
Link direct Bit device Link input 8192 points Jn\X0 to Jn\X1FFF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Link output 8192 points Jn\Y0 to Jn\Y1FFF Hexadecimal
Link relay 16384 points Jn\B0 to Jn\B3FFF Hexadecimal
Link special relay 512 points Jn\SB0 to Jn\SB1FF Hexadecimal
Word Link register 16384 points Jn\W0 to Jn\W3FFF Hexadecimal
device
Link special register 512 points Jn\SW0 to Jn\SW1FF Hexadecimal
Module access Word Intelligent function module device 65536 points Un\G0 to Decimal N/A
device device Un\G65535*2
Index register Word Index register 10 points Z0 to Z9 Decimal N/A
device
File register*5 Word File register 64K points • R0 to R32767 Decimal N/A
device • ZR0 to 65535
Nesting  Nesting 15 points N0 to N14 Decimal N/A
Pointer  Pointer 300 points P0 to P299 Decimal N/A
Interrupt pointer 128 points I0 to I27 Decimal N/A
Others Bit device SFC block device 128 points BL0 to BL127 Decimal N/A
 Network No. specification device 239 points J1 to J239 Decimal N/A
 I/O No. specification Q00JCPU  U0 to UF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Q00CPU,  U0 to U3F
Q01CPU
 Macro instruction argument device  VD0 to VD Decimal N/A
Constant  Decimal constant K-2147483648 to K2147483647
Hexadecimal constant H0 to HFFFFFFFF
Real constant E1.17550-38 to E3.40282+38
Character string constant "ABC", "123"*4

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.2 Device List 27
 *1 For the timer, retentive timer, and counter, contact/coil values are stored in bit devices, and current values are stored in word devices.
*2 The number of points that can be actually used varies depending on the intelligent function module. For the points in the buffer memory,
refer to the manual for the intelligent function module used.
*3 The value can be changed in the Device setting of the PLC parameter dialog box. (Except for input, output, step relay, link special relay,
and link special register) Refer to the User's Manual (Function Description/Program Fundamentals) of the CPU module used.
*4 Character strings can be used only for the $MOV, STR, DSTR, VAL, DVAL, ESTR, and EVAL instructions. They cannot be used for the
other instructions.
*5 Because the Q00JCPU does not have the standard RAM, the file register cannot be used.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
28 3.2 Device List
Device list of High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, and Redundant CPU
Classification Type Device name Default Parameter setting
Point Range range

Internal user Bit device Input 8192 points X0 to X1FFF Hexadecimal Can be changed within
device 29k words.*3
Output 8192 points Y0 to Y1FFF Hexadecimal
Internal relay 8192 points M0 to M8191 Decimal
Latch relay 8192 points L0 to L8191 Decimal
Annunciator
Edge relay
2048 points
2048 points
F0 to F2047
V0 to V2047
Decimal
Decimal
3
Step relay 8192 points S0 to S511/block Decimal
Link relay 8192 points B0 to B1FFF Hexadecimal
Link special relay 2048 points SB0 to SB7FF Hexadecimal
Word Timer*1 2048 points T0 to T2047 Decimal
device
Retentive timer*1 0 point (ST0 to ST2047) Decimal
Counter*1 1024 points C0 to C1023 Decimal
Data register 12288 points D0 to D12287 Hexadecimal
Link register 8192 points W0 to W1FFF Hexadecimal
Link special register 2048 points SW0 to SW7FF Hexadecimal
Internal system Bit device Function input 16 points FX0 to FXF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Function output 16 points FY0 to FYF Hexadecimal
Special relay 2048 points SM0 to SM2047 Decimal
Word Function register 5 points FD0 to FD4 Decimal
device
Special register 2048 points SD0 to SD2047 Decimal
Link direct Bit device Link input 8192 points Jn\X0 to Jn\X1FFF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Link output 8192 points Jn\Y0 to Jn\Y1FFF Hexadecimal
Link relay 16384 points Jn\B0 to Jn\B3FFF Hexadecimal
Link special relay 512 points Jn\SB0 to Jn\SB1FF Hexadecimal
Word Link register 16384 points Jn\W0 to Jn\W3FFF Hexadecimal
device
Link special register 512 points Jn\SW0 to Jn\SW1FF Hexadecimal
Module access Word Intelligent function module device 65536 points Un\G0 to Decimal N/A
device device Un\G65535*2
Word Cyclic transmission area device*4 4096 points U3En\G0 to Decimal Setting available
device U3En\G4095
Index register Word Index register 16 points Z0 to Z15 Decimal N/A
device
File register Word File register 0 point   0 to 1018K points
device
Nesting  Nesting 15 points N0 to N14 Decimal N/A
Pointer  Pointer 4096 points P0 to P4095 Decimal N/A
Interrupt pointer 256 points I0 to I255 Decimal N/A
Others Bit device SFC block device 320 points BL0 to BL319 Decimal N/A
Bit device SFC transition device 512 points TR0 to TR511 Decimal N/A
 Network No. specification device 255 points J1 to J255 Decimal N/A
 I/O No. specification device  U0 to UFF Hexadecimal N/A
 Macro instruction argument device  VD0 to VD Decimal N/A
Constant  Decimal constant K-2147483648 to K2147483647
Hexadecimal constant H0 to HFFFFFFFF
Real constant • Single-precision floating-point data: E1.17549435-38 to E3.40282347+38
• Double-precision floating-point data: E2.2250738585072014-308 to
E1.7976931348623157+308
Character string constant "ABC", "123"

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.2 Device List 29
 *1 For the timer, retentive timer, and counter, contact/coil values are stored in bit devices, and current values are stored in word devices.
*2 The number of points that can be actually used varies depending on the intelligent function module. For the points in the buffer memory,
refer to the manual for the intelligent function module used.
*3 The value can be changed in the Device setting of the PLC parameter dialog box. (Except for input, output, step relay, link special relay,
and link special register) Refer to the User's Manual (Function Description/Program Fundamentals) of the CPU module used.
*4 Available only in a multiple CPU system configuration.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
30 3.2 Device List
Device list of Universal model QCPU
Classification Type Device name Default Parameter setting
Point Range range

Internal user Bit device Input 8192 points X0 to X1FFF Hexadecimal Can be changed within
device 29k words.*3*19
Output 8192 points Y0 to Y1FFF Hexadecimal
Internal relay 8192 points*20 M0 to M8191*21 Decimal
Latch relay 8192 points L0 to L8191 Decimal
Annunciator
Edge relay
2048 points
2048 points
F0 to F2047
V0 to V2047
Decimal
Decimal
3
Step relay 8192 points S0 to S511/block Decimal
Link relay 8192 points B0 to B1FFF Hexadecimal
Link special relay 2048 points SB0 to SB7FF Hexadecimal
Word Timer*1 2048 points T0 to T2047 Decimal
device
Retentive timer*1 0 point (ST0 to ST2047) Decimal
Counter*1 1024 points C0 to C1023 Decimal
Data register 12288 points*22 D0 to D12287*23 Hexadecimal
Link register 8192 points W0 to W1FFF Hexadecimal
Link special register 2048 points SW0 to SW7FF Hexadecimal
Internal system Bit device Function input 16 points FX0 to FXF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Function output 16 points FY0 to FYF Hexadecimal
Special relay 2048 points SM0 to SM2047 Decimal
Word Function register 5 points FD0 to FD4 Decimal
device
Special register 2048 points SD0 to SD2047 Decimal
Link direct Bit device Link input 16384 points*14 Jn\X0 to Jn\X3FFF*15 Hexadecimal N/A
device *14 *15
Link output 16384 points Jn\Y0 to Jn\Y3FFF Hexadecimal
Link relay 32768 points Jn\B0 to Jn\B7FFF Hexadecimal
Link special relay 512 points Jn\SB0 to Jn\SB1FF Hexadecimal
Word Link register 131072 points Jn\W0 to Jn\W1FFFF Hexadecimal
device
Link special register 512 points Jn\SW0 to Jn\SW1FF Hexadecimal
Module access Word Intelligent function module device 65536 points Un\G0 to Decimal N/A
device device Un\G65535*2
Word Cyclic transmission area device*4 4096 points U3En\G0 to Decimal N/A
device U3En\G4095
14336 points U3En\G10000 to Decimal Setting available
U3En\G24335
Index register/ Word Index register/standard device register 20 points Z0 to Z19 Decimal N/A
standard device device
register
File register*7 Word File register 0 point   0 to 4086K points*6
device
Extended data Word Extended data register 0 point*16  
register*7 device
Extended link Word Extended link register 0 point  
register*7 device
Nesting  Nesting 15 points N0 to N14 Decimal N/A
Pointer  Pointer 4096 P0 to P4095*9*18 Decimal N/A
points*8*17
Interrupt pointer 256 points*10 I0 to I255*11 Decimal N/A
Others Bit device SFC block device 320 points*25 BL0 to BL319*12 Decimal N/A
 Network No. specification device 255 points J1 to J255 Decimal N/A
 I/O No. specification device 516 points U0 to FF, U3E0 to Hexadecimal N/A
U3E3*13
 Macro instruction argument device 10 points VD0 to VD9 Decimal N/A

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.2 Device List 31
 Classification Type Device name Default Parameter setting
Point Range range

Constant  Decimal constant K-2147483648 to K2147483647

Hexadecimal constant H0 to HFFFFFFFF
Real constant • Single-precision floating-point data: E1.17549435-38 to E3.40282347+38
• Double-precision floating-point data*5: E2.2250738585072014-308 to
E1.7976931348623157+308
Character string constant Up to 32 characters (ex. "ABC", "123")

*1 For the timer, retentive timer, and counter, contact/coil values are stored in bit devices, and current values are stored in word devices.
*2 The number of points that can be actually used varies depending on the intelligent function module. For the points in the buffer memory,
refer to the manual for the intelligent function module used.
*3 The number of points can be changed (except for input, output, and step relay) in the Device tab of the PLC parameter dialog box. Note
that the step relay points can be changed to 0 point for the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "10042" or
later. For the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12052" or later, the step relay points can be set in
increments of 1k points and up to the following points.
 Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, and Q02UCPU: 8192 points
 Universal model QCPUs other than the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, and Q02UCPU: 16384 points
*4 Available only in a multiple CPU system configuration.
*5 Up to 15 digits can be entered in GX Developer.
*6 The total of the points for the file register, extended data register (D), and extended link register (W)
*7 The device cannot be used on the Q00UJCPU.
*8 For the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, and Q01UCPU, the number of points is 512.
*9 For the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, and Q01UCPU, the range is P0 to P511.
*10 For the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, and Q01UCPU, the number of points is 128.
*11 For the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, and Q01UCPU, the range is I0 to I127.
*12 For the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, and Q02UCPU, the range is BL0 to BL127.
*13 The range differs depending on the CPU module: U0 to UF for the Q00UJCPU; U0 to U3F and U3E0 to 3E2 for the Q00UCPU and
Q01UCPU; and U0 to U7F and U3E0 to U3E2 for the Q02UCPU.
*14 For the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12011" or earlier, the number of points is 8192.
*15 For the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12011" or earlier, the range is Jn\X/Y0 to Jn\1FFF.
*16 For the Q50UDEHCPU and Q100UDEHCPU, the number of points is 128k.
*17 For the Q50UDEHCPU and Q100UDEHCPU, the number of points is 8192.
*18 For the Q50UDEHCPU and Q100UDEHCPU, the range is P0 to P8191.
*19 The changeable range differs depending on the CPU module: within 30k words for the Q03UDVCPU; within 40k words for the
Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDVCPU, and Q06UDPVCPU; and within 60k words for the Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU,
Q26UDVCPU, and Q26UDPVCPU.
*20 The number of points differs depending on the CPU module: 9216 for the Q03UDVCPU; 15360 for the Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU,
Q06UDVCPU, and Q06UDPVCPU; and 28672 for the Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, Q26UDVCPU, and Q26UDPVCPU.
*21 The range differs depending on the CPU module: M0 to M9215 for the Q03UDVCPU; M0 to M15359 for the Q04UDVCPU,
Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDVCPU, and Q06UDPVCPU; and M0 to M28671 for the Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, Q26UDVCPU, and
Q26UDPVCPU.
*22 The number of points differs depending on the CPU module: 13312 for the Q03UDVCPU; 22528 for the Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU,
Q06UDVCPU, and Q06UDPVCPU; and 41984 for the Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, Q26UDVCPU, and Q26UDPVCPU.
*23 The range differs depending on the CPU module: D0 to D13311 for the Q03UDVCPU; D0 to D22527 for the Q04UDVCPU,
Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDVCPU, and Q06UDPVCPU; and D0 to D41983 for the Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, Q26UDVCPU, and
Q26UDPVCPU.
*24 The setting range differs depending on the CPU module: 0 to 4192k points for the Q03UDVCPU, 0 to 4224k points for the Q04UDVCPU
and Q04UDPVCPU, 0 to 4480k points for Q06UDVCPU and Q06UDPVCPU, 0 to 4608k points for the Q13UDVCPU and
Q13UDPVCPU, and 0 to 4736k points for the Q26UDVCPU and Q26UDPVCPU.
*25 For the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, and Q02UCPU, the number of points is 128.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
32 3.2 Device List
Device list of LCPU
Classification Type Device name Default Parameter setting
Point Range range

Internal user Bit device Input 8192 points X0 to X1FFF Hexadecimal Setting available (Up to
device 29K words for the
Output 8192 points Y0 to Y1FFF Hexadecimal
internal user device)*6
Internal relay 8192 points M0 to M8191 Decimal
Latch relay 8192 points L0 to L8191 Decimal
Link relay
Annunciator
8192 points
2048 points
B0 to B1FFF
F0 to F2047
Hexadecimal
Decimal
3
Link special relay 2048 points SB0 to SB7FF Hexadecimal
Edge relay 2048 points V0 to V2047 Decimal
Step relay 8192 points S0 to S8191 Decimal
Word Timer*8 2048 points T0 to T2047 Decimal
device
Retentive timer*8 0 point (ST0 to ST2047) Decimal
Counter*8 1024 points C0 to C1023 Decimal
Data register 12288 points D0 to D12287 Hexadecimal
Link register 8192 points W0 to W1FFF Hexadecimal
Link special register 2048 points SW0 to SW7FF Hexadecimal
Internal system Bit device Function input 16 points FX0 to FXF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Function output 16 points FY0 to FYF Hexadecimal
Special relay 2048 points SM0 to SM2047 Decimal
Word Function register 5 points FD0 to FD4 Decimal
device
Special register 2048 points SD0 to SD2047 Decimal
Module access Word Intelligent function module device 65536 points Un\G0 to Decimal N/A
device device Un\G65535*2
Index register/ Word Index register/standard device register 20 points Z0 to Z19 Decimal N/A
standard device device
register
File register Word File register 0 point  Decimal 0 to 384K points in
device total*3 (in 1K units)
Extended data Word Extended data register 128K points D12288 to D143359 *1 Decimal
register device
Extended link Word Extended link register 0 point  Hexadecimal
register device
Nesting  Nesting 15 points N0 to N14 Decimal N/A
Pointer  Pointer 4096 points*7 P0 to P4095*7 Decimal N/A*7
Interrupt pointer 256 points I0 to I255 Decimal N/A
Others Bit device SFC block device 320 points BL0 to BL319*4 Decimal N/A
*5
 I/O No. specification device  U0 to FF Hexadecimal N/A
 Macro instruction argument device 10 points VD0 to VD9 Decimal N/A

*1 For the L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, and L02CPU-P, the number of points is 32K (D12288 to D45055).
*2 The number of points that can be actually used varies depending on the intelligent function module. Refer to the manual for each
intelligent function module.
*3 For the L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, and L02CPU-P, the total number of points is 0 to 64K.
*4 For the L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, and L02CPU-P, the number of points is 128 (BL0 to B127).
*5 For the L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, and L02CPU-P, the range is U0 to U3F.
*6 For the LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15101" or earlier, either 0K point or 8K point can be set for the step relay. For the
LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15102" or later, the step relay points can be set up to the following points.
 L02(S)CPU, L02(S)CPU-P: 8192 points
 Other models: 16384 points
*7 For the L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, and L26CPU-PBT whose serial number (first five digits) is "16042" or
later, the pointer for automatic-assign device is extended up to 32768 points in the Device tab of the PLC parameter dialog box. For
details, refer to the MELSEC-L CPU Module User's Manual (Function Explanation, Program Fundamentals).
*8 For the timer, retentive timer, and counter, contact/coil values are stored in bit devices, and current values are stored in word devices.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.2 Device List 33
 Device list of QnACPU
Classification Type Device name Default Parameter setting
Point Range range

Internal user Bit device Input*3 8192 points X0 to X1FFF Hexadecimal Setting available (Up to
device 29K words for the
Output*3 8192 points Y0 to Y1FFF Hexadecimal
internal user device)*3
Internal relay 8192 points M0 to M8191 Decimal
Latch relay 8192 points L0 to L8191 Decimal
Annunciator 2048 points F0 to F2047 Decimal
Edge relay 2048 points V0 to V2047 Decimal
Step relay *3 8192 points S0 to S8191 Decimal
Link relay 8192 points B0 to B1FFF Hexadecimal
Link special relay*3 2048 points SB0 to SB7FF Hexadecimal
Word Timer*1 2048 points T0 to T2047 Decimal
device
Retentive timer*1 0 point (ST0 to ST2047) Decimal
Counter*1 1024 points C0 to C1023 Decimal
Data register 12288 points D0 to D12287 Hexadecimal
Link register 8192 points W0 to W1FFF Hexadecimal
Link special register*3 2048 points SW0 to SW7FF Hexadecimal
Internal system Bit device Function input 16 points FX0 to FXF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Function output 16 points FY0 to FYF Hexadecimal
Special relay 2048 points SM0 to SM2047 Decimal
Word Function register 5 points FD0 to FD4 Decimal
device
Special register 2048 points SD0 to SD2047 Decimal
Link direct Bit device Link input 8192 points Jn\X0 to Jn\X1FFF Hexadecimal N/A
device
Link output 8192 points Jn\Y0 to Jn\Y1FFF Hexadecimal
Link relay 8192 points Jn\B0 to Jn\B1FFF Hexadecimal
Link special relay 512 points Jn\SB0 to Jn\SB1FF Hexadecimal
Word Link register 8192 points Jn\W0 to Jn\W1FFF Hexadecimal
device
Link special register 512 points Jn\SW0 to Jn\SW1FF Hexadecimal
Special function Word Buffer register 16384 points Un\G0 to Decimal N/A
module device device Un\G16383*2
Index register Word Index register/standard device register 16 points Z0 to Z15 Decimal N/A
device
File register Word File register 0 point  Decimal 0 to 1024K points
device
Nesting  Nesting 15 points N0 to N14 Decimal N/A
Pointer  Pointer 4096 points P0 to P4095 Decimal N/A
Interrupt pointer 48 points I0 to I47 Decimal N/A
Others Bit device SFC block device 320 points BL0 to BL319 Decimal N/A
Bit device SFC transition device 512 points TR0 to TR511 Decimal
 Network No. specification device 255 points J1 to J255 Decimal
 I/O No. specification device  U0 to FF Hexadecimal
Constant  Decimal constant K-2147483648 to K2147483647
Hexadecimal constant H0 to HFFFFFFFF
Real constant E1.17549435-38 to E3.40282347+38
Character string constant "ABC", "123"

*1 For the timer, retentive timer, and counter, contact/coil values are stored in bit devices, and current values are stored in word devices.
*2 The number of points that can be actually used varies depending on the intelligent function module. Refer to the manual for each
intelligent function module.
*3 The values of the input, output, step relay, link special relay, and link special register are fixed to the default values, and cannot be
changed.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
34 3.2 Device List
3.3 Processing Time
This section describes the processing time for SFC programs.

Processing time for SFC program

Calculate the SFC program processing time with the following expression
• Processing time for SFC program = (A) + (B) + (C)
Item Description 3
(A) Processing time of operation Total sum of the processing times of the instructions used for the operation outputs of all steps that are active
outputs in all steps
(B) Processing time of all transition Total sum of the processing times of the instructions used for the transition conditions associated with all steps
conditions that are active
(C) SFC system processing time Total sum of the processing times described in Page 35 Processing time for SFC program.

Processing time of operation outputs in all steps

Indicates the total sum of the processing times of the instructions used for the operation outputs of all steps that are active.
For the processing time of the instructions, refer to the Programming Manual (Common Instructions) for the CPU module
used.

Processing time of all transition conditions

Indicates the total sum of the processing times of the instructions used for the transition conditions associated with all steps
that are active. For the processing time of the instructions, refer to the Programming Manual (Common Instructions) for the
CPU module used.

SFC system processing time

Calculate the SFC system processing time with the following expression.
• SFC system processing time (C) = (a) + (b) + (c) + (d) + (e) + (f) + (g)
Item Calculation of Processing Time (Unit: s)
(a) Active block processing time (Active block processing time) = (active block processing time coefficient)  (number of active blocks)
• Active block processing time: System processing time required to execute active blocks
• Number of active blocks: Number of blocks that are active
(b) Inactive block processing time (Inactive block processing time) = (inactive block processing time coefficient)  (number of inactive blocks)
• Inactive block processing time: System processing time required to execute inactive blocks
• Number of inactive blocks: Number of blocks that are inactive
(c) Nonexistent block processing (Nonexistent block processing time) = (nonexistent block processing time coefficient)  (number of nonexistent
time blocks)
• Nonexistent block processing time: System processing time required to execute blocks that have not been
created
• Number of nonexistent blocks: Number of blocks where programs have not been created within the number of
blocks set in the parameter
(d) Active step processing time (Active step processing time) = (active step processing time coefficient)  (number of active steps)
• Active step processing time: Time required to execute active steps
• Number of active steps: Number of steps that are active in all blocks
(e) Active transition processing time (Active transition processing time) = (active transition processing time coefficient)  (number of active
transitions)
• Active transition processing time: System processing time required to execute active transitions
• Number of active transitions: Number of transition conditions associated with all steps that are active in all
blocks
(f) Transition condition-satisfied step (Transition condition-satisfied step processing time) = (transition condition-satisfied step processing time
processing time coefficient)  (number of transition condition-satisfied steps)
• Transition condition-satisfied step processing time: Time required to perform OFF execution of active steps
• Number of transition condition-satisfied steps: Number of steps where operation outputs are turned OFF since
transition conditions were satisfied in all blocks
(g) SFC end processing time (SFC end processing time) = (SFC end processing time)
• SFC end processing time: System processing time required to perform the end processing of SFC program.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.3 Processing Time 35
 ■System processing times for different CPU module models
This section describes the system processing time for each CPU module.
• When Basic model QCPU is used
Item Q00JCPU Q00CPU Q01CPU
Active block processing time coefficient 41.9s 35.5s 27.3s
Inactive block processing time coefficient 10.5s 8.8s 6.8s
Nonexistent block processing time coefficient 1.1s 0.9s 0.7s
Active step processing time coefficient 31.6s 26.7s 20.5s
Active transition processing time coefficient 10.2s 8.7s 6.7s
Transition condition- With HOLD step 216.0s 182.8s 140.6s
satisfied step processing designation*1
time coefficient
Normal step designation 263.5s 222.9s 171.5s
SFC end processing time 66.8s 56.5s 43.5s

• When High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU or Redundant CPU is used
Item QnCPU QnHCPU QnPHCPU QnPRHCPU
Active block processing time coefficient 33.7s 14.5s 14.5s 14.5s
Inactive block processing time coefficient 12.0s 5.2s 5.2s 5.2s
Nonexistent block processing time coefficient 4.1s 1.8s 1.8s 1.8s
Active step processing time coefficient 24.5s 10.6s 10.6s 10.6s
Active transition processing time coefficient 10.0s 4.3s 4.3s 4.3s
Transition condition- With HOLD step 130.4s 56.2s 56.2s 56.2s
satisfied step processing designation*1
time coefficient
Normal step designation 119.4s 51.5s 51.5s 51.5s
SFC end processing time 108.2s 46.6s 46.6s 46.6s

• When Universal model QCPU is used

Item Q00UJCPU, Q02UCPU Q03UDCPU, Q04UDHCPU, Q06UDHCPU,
Q00UCPU, Q03UDECPU Q10UDHCPU, Q13UDHCPU,
Q01UCPU Q20UDHCPU, Q26UDHCPU,
Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDEHCPU,
Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDEHCPU,
Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDEHCPU,
Q50UDEHCPU, Q100UDEHCPU
Active block processing time coefficient 12.7s 8.4s 8.3s 7.0s
Inactive block processing time coefficient 5.3s 3.9s 3.8s 3.4s
Nonexistent block processing time coefficient 0.9s 0.8s 0.7s 0.6s
Active step processing time coefficient 11.9s 8.6s 8.2s 6.4s
Active transition processing time coefficient 3.4s 2.1s 2.0s 1.6s
Transition condition- With HOLD step 86.7s 69.6s 60.3s 42.7s
satisfied step processing designation*1
time coefficient
Normal step designation 106.9s 83.2s 73.7s 52.0s
SFC end processing time 67.5s 38.4s 36.6s 26.9s

Item Q03UDVCPU Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU,

Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU
Active block processing time coefficient 5.0s 4.8s
Inactive block processing time coefficient 2.5s 2.3s
Nonexistent block processing time coefficient 0.60s 0.33s
Active step processing time coefficient 5.8s 5.5s
Active transition processing time coefficient 1.3s 1.3s
Transition condition- With HOLD step 38s 34s
satisfied step processing designation*1
time coefficient
Normal step designation 50s 41s
SFC end processing time 25.5s 25.5s

3 SPECIFICATIONS
36 3.3 Processing Time
• LCPU
Item L02SCPU, L02CPU, L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P,
L02SCPU-P L02CPU-P L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT
Active block processing time coefficient 12.7s 8.5s 7.0s
Inactive block processing time coefficient 5.3s 3.8s 3.4s
Nonexistent block processing time coefficient 0.9s 1.2s 0.6s
Active step processing time coefficient 11.9s 8.7s 6.4s
Active transition processing time coefficient 3.4s 2.0s 1.6s
Transition condition- With HOLD step 86.7s 66.1s 42.7s
satisfied step processing designation*1 3
time coefficient
Normal step designation 106.9s 79.4s 52.0s
SFC end processing time 67.5s 44.7s 26.9s

• QnACPU
Item Q4ACPU, Q4ARCPU, Q3ACPU Q2ACPU(S1),
Q2ASHCPU(S1) Q2ASCPU(S1)
Active block processing time coefficient 30.6s 61.2s 32.6s
Inactive block processing time coefficient 10.7s 21.3s 28.8s
Nonexistent block processing time coefficient 4.6s 9.2s 12.5s
Active step processing time coefficient 23.2s 46.4s 62.7s
Active transition processing time coefficient 9.4s 18.7s 25.2s
Transition condition- With HOLD step 137.2s 274.3s 370.4s
satisfied step processing designation*1
time coefficient
Normal step designation 122.5s 245.1s 330.9s
SFC end processing time 89.7s 179.3s 242.1s

*1 The HOLD step includes all of the coil hold steps and operation hold steps (with or without transition check). The Normal step represents
steps other than the above.

Ex.
[SFC system processing time calculation example]
Using the Q25HCPU as an example, the processing time for the SFC system is calculated as shown below, given the
following conditions.
• Designated at initial START
• Number of active blocks: 30 (active blocks at SFC program)
• Number of inactive blocks: 70 (inactive blocks at SFC program)
• Number of nonexistent blocks: 50 (number of blocks between 0 and the max. created block No. which have no SFC
program)
• Number of active steps: 60 (active steps within active blocks)
• Active step transition conditions: 60
• Steps with satisfied transition conditions: 10 (active steps (no HOLD steps) with satisfied transition conditions)
SFC system process time = (14.5  30) + (5.2  70) + (1.8  50)+ (10.6  60) + (4.3  60) + (56.2  10) + 46.6 =
2391.6s  2.40 ms
In this case, calculation using the equation shown above results in an SFC system processing time of 2.40 ms.
With the Q4ACPU, given the same conditions, the processing time would be 5.32 ms. The scan time is the total of the
following times: SFC system processing time, main sequence program processing time, processing time of ladder circuit
having transition conditions associated with SFC's active steps, and CPU module's END processing time.
The number of active steps, the number of transition conditions, and the number of steps with satisfied transition conditions
varies according to the conditions shown below.
• When transition condition is unsatisfied
• When transition condition is satisfied (without continuous transition)
• When transition condition is satisfied (with continuous transition)

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.3 Processing Time 37
 The method for determining the number of the above items is illustrated in the SFC diagram below.

The following table indicates the number of active steps, number of active transitions, and number of transition condition-
satisfied steps when Step 2 and Step 6 are active.
Whether Transition Presence/Absence of Number of Active Steps Number of Active Number of Transition
Conditions Are Satisfied Continuous Transitions Condition-Satisfied
or Not Transition Steps
Transition conditions not  2 (Steps 2, 6) 2 (Transition conditions 2, 5) 0
satisfied
• Transition conditions 2, 5 Absence 2 (Steps 2, 6) 2 (Transition conditions 2, 5) 2 (Steps 2, 6)
satisfied
Presence 4 (Steps 2, 3, 6, 7) 4 (Transition conditions 2, 3, 2 (Steps 2, 6)
• Transition conditions 3, 6 not
5, 6)
satisfied
Transition conditions 2, 3, 5, 6 Absence 2 (Steps 2, 6) 2 (Transition conditions 2, 5) 2 (Steps 2, 6)
satisfied
Presence 6 (Steps 2 to 4, 6 to 8) 6 (Transition conditions 2 to 4 (Steps 2, 3, 6, 7)
7)

3 SPECIFICATIONS
38 3.3 Processing Time
Processing time for S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction and
S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction
Processing time for S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction and S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is shown below.
[Condition]
• The number of comments to be stored in the comment file: 1000
• Sequence steps in the SFC step in the SFC program: 1000 sequence steps
• The number of active steps: 40
Instruction Condition High Performance model QCPU Process CPU Redundant 3
QnCPU QnHCPU CPU

S(P).SFCSCOMR At instruction execution 280s 120s 120s 120s

At END processing (read 1 comment) 780s 350s 350s 350s
S(P).SFCTCOMR At instruction execution 300s 130s 130s 130s
At END • Transition condition for serial 2.5ms 1.1ms 1.1ms 1.1ms
processing transition
(read 1 • Transition condition after
comment) selection branching
Transition Number of 4.5ms 2.0ms 2.0ms 2.0ms
condition after parallel
parallel couplings: 2
coupling Number of 60.5ms*1 26.2ms 26.2ms 26.2ms
parallel
couplings: 32

*1 Indicates that the sequence steps in SFC steps consist of 800 sequence steps.

Instruction Condition Universal model QCPU

Q03UD(E)CPU Q04UD(E)HCPU, Q06UD(E)HCPU,
Q10UD(E)HCPU, Q13UD(E)HCPU,
Q20UD(E)HCPU, Q26UD(E)HCPU,
Q50UDEHCPU, Q100UDEHCPU
Min. Max. Min. Max.
S(P).SFCSCOMR At instruction execution 190s 193s 176s 177s
S(P).SFCTCOMR 190s 193s 176s 177s

Instruction Condition Universal model QCPU

Q03UD(E)CPU Q04UD(E)HCPU, Q06UD(E)HCPU,
Q10UD(E)HCPU, Q13UD(E)HCPU,
Q20UD(E)HCPU, Q26UD(E)HCPU,
Q50UDEHCPU, Q100UDEHCPU
SRAM card Flash card SRAM card Flash card
S(P).SFCSCOMR At END processing (read 1 comment) 3.3ms 4.5ms 2.5ms 4.0ms
S(P).SFCTCOMR At END Transition condition for serial 3.7ms 5.3ms 3.3ms 5.0ms
processing transition
(read 1
Transition condition after 3.2ms 4.9ms 2.9ms 4.4ms
comment)
selection branching
Transition Number of 4.0ms 5.7ms 3.6ms 5.1ms
condition after parallel
parallel couplings: 2
coupling
Number of 18.7ms 21.0ms 13.8ms 14.0ms
parallel
couplings: 32

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.3 Processing Time 39
 Instruction Condition Universal model QCPU
Q03UDVCPU Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU,
Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU,
Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU,
Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU
Min. Max. Min. Max.
S(P).SFCSCOMR At instruction execution 54.7s 60.0s 51.8s 56.8s
S(P).SFCTCOMR 55.3s 60.2s 52.6s 57.1s

Instruction Condition Universal model QCPU

Q03UDVCPU Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU, Q06UDVCPU,
Q06UDPVCPU, Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU,
Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU
Standard RAM Standard RAM
S(P).SFCSCOMR At END processing (read 1 comment) 0.26ms 0.25ms
S(P).SFCTCOMR At END Transition condition for serial 0.66ms 0.44ms
processing transition
(read 1 Transition condition after 0.66ms 0.35ms
comment)
selection branching
Transition Number of 0.87ms 0.55ms
condition after parallel
parallel couplings: 2
coupling
Number of 1.28ms 0.75ms
parallel
couplings: 32

Instruction Condition LCPU

L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT
Min. Max.
S(P).SFCSCOMR At instruction execution 97.4s 99.0s
S(P).SFCTCOMR 97.7s 98.9s

Instruction Condition LCPU

L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT
Standard ROM
S(P).SFCSCOMR At END processing (read 1 comment) 1.5ms*2
S(P).SFCTCOMR At END Transition condition for serial
processing transition
(read 1
Transition condition after
comment)
selection branching
Transition Number of
condition after parallel
parallel couplings: 2
coupling
Number of
parallel
couplings: 32

*2 Processing time for the program shown in the condition (scan time: 15ms). The processing time varies depending on the number of files
in standard ROM and the SFC program (transition conditions and the number of active steps).

3 SPECIFICATIONS
40 3.3 Processing Time
3.4 Calculating the SFC Program Capacity
In order to express the SFC diagram using instructions, the memory capacity shown below is required. The method for
calculating the SFC program capacity and the number of steps when the SFC diagram is expressed by SFC dedicated
instructions is described in this section.

Method for calculating the SFC program capacity

3
(Step)

*1 Number of steps where SFC diagram is expressed by SFC dedicated instructions.

(1) Step
(1)
3 sequence steps for step START and END instructions
(2) Ò (2) Transition condition
: For serial transition or selective branching coupling
4 sequence steps for transition START instruction and transition destination instruction
(2) Ó : For parallel branching
Total number of steps for the transition START instruction, and transition destination instructions for the number of parallel
branches in question
: For parallel coupling
Total number of steps for the transition START instruction, and the transition destination instructions and coupling check
instructions for the number of parallel branchings in question -1.
(2) Ô (2) Jump, end step
(3) Calculated as step 0 because it is included in the previous transition condition.

• Operation outputs for each step: The capacity per step is total number of sequence steps for all instructions.
For details regarding the number of sequence steps for each instruction, refer to the Programming Manual
(Common Instructions) for the CPU module used.
• Transition conditions: The capacity per transition condition is total number of sequence steps for all
instructions. For details regarding the number of sequence steps for each instruction, refer to the
Programming Manual (Common Instructions) for the CPU module used.

3 SPECIFICATIONS
3.4 Calculating the SFC Program Capacity 41
 Number of steps required for expressing the SFC diagram as SFC
dedicated instructions
The following table shows the number of steps required for expressing the SFC diagram as SFC dedicated instructions.
Name Ladder Number of Description Required Number of Steps
Expression Steps
SFCP START instruction [SFCP] 1 Indicates the SFC program START 1 per program
SFCP END instruction [SFCPEND] 1 Indicates the SFC program END 1 per program
Block START instruction [BLOCK BLm] 1 Indicates the block START 1 per block
Block END instruction [BEND] 1 Indicates the block END 1 per block
Step START instruction [STEP Si] 2 Indicates the step START ("  " varies 1 per step
according to the step attribute)
Transition START [TRAN TRj] 2 Indicates the transition START ("  " varies 1 per transition condition
instruction according to the step attribute)
Coupling check [TAND Si] 2 "Coupling completed" check occurs at parallel "[Number of parallel couplings] - [1]"
instruction coupling per parallel coupling
Transition designation [TSET Si] 2 Designates the transition destination step For serial transitions and selection
instruction transitions, 1 per transition condition;
for parallel branching transitions, the
number of steps is the same as the
number of parallel couplings
Step END instruction [SEND] 1 Indicates the step / transition END 1 per step

3 SPECIFICATIONS
42 3.4 Calculating the SFC Program Capacity
4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION
This chapter describes the SFC program symbols, SFC control instructions and SFC information devices that comprise an
SFC program.
When applying the program examples introduced in this manual to an actual system, ensure the applicability and confirm that
it will not cause system control problems.
As shown below, an SFC program consists of an initial step, transition conditions, intermediate steps, and an END step. The
data beginning from the initial step and ending at the END step is referred to as a block.

An SFC program starts at an initial step, executes a step following a transition condition in due order every time that transition
condition is satisfied, and ends a series of operations at an end step.
• When the SFC program is started, the initial step is executed first. While the initial step is being executed, whether the
transition condition following the initial step (transition condition 0 (t0) in the figure) has been satisfied or not is checked.
• Only the initial step is executed until transition condition 0 (t0) is satisfied. When transition condition 0 (t0) is satisfied, the
execution of the initial step is stopped, and the step following the initial step (step 1 (S1) in the figure) is executed. While
step 1 (S1) is being executed, whether the transition condition following step 1 (transition condition 1 (t1) in the figure) has
been satisfied or not is checked.
• When transition condition 1 (t1) is satisfied, the execution of step 1 (S1) is stopped, and the next step (step 2 (S2) in the
figure) is executed.
• Every time the transition condition is satisfied in order, the next step is executed, and the block ends when the end step is
executed.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

43
 4.1 List of SFC Diagram Symbols
The symbols used in the SFC program are listed below.
Class Name SFC Diagram Symbol Remarks
Step Initial step When step No. is Any of these steps in 1 block
0
"0" Initial step at top left (column 1) of
Dummy initial step SFC diagram is fixed to No.0. n =
0
reset destination step No.
Coil HOLD initial step
0
Operation HOLD step (without transition check)
initial step 0

Operation HOLD step (with transition check)

0
initial step
Reset initial step
0 Sn
Initial step When initial step Up to 31 steps in 1 block.
No. is other than "0" i i = step No. (1 to 511)
Dummy initial step n = reset destination step No.
i
Coil HOLD initial step
i
Operation HOLD step (without transition check)
i
initial step
Operation HOLD step (with transition check)
initial step i

Reset initial step

i Sn
Step Steps other than Up to 512 steps in 1 block,
"initial" step i including initial step (128 steps for
Dummy step Basic model QCPU)
i
i = step No. (1 to 511)
Coil HOLD step n = reset destination step No.
i
m = movement destination block
Operation HOLD step (without transition check) No.
i
Operation HOLD step (with transition check)
i
Reset step
i Sn
Block START step (with END check)
i BLm
Block START step (without END check)
i BLm
End step More than one step can be used
in 1 block.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

44 4.1 List of SFC Diagram Symbols
Class Name SFC Diagram Symbol Remarks
Transition Serial transition a, b = Transition condition No.

Selection branching

Selection coupling

Selection coupling - parallel branching

4
Parallel branching

Parallel coupling

Parallel coupling - parallel branching

Parallel coupling - selection branching

Selection branching - parallel branching

Parallel coupling - selection coupling

Selection branching - parallel branching

Parallel coupling - selection coupling

Jump transition a = Transition condition No.

j = jump destination step No.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.1 List of SFC Diagram Symbols 45
 Class Name SFC Diagram Symbol Remarks
Transition End step transition a, b = Transition condition No.
j = jump destination step No.

Selection coupling - Jump

Selection coupling - Selection branching -Jump

Selection coupling - Selection coupling - Jump

Selection branching - Jump

Selection coupling - Jump

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

46 4.1 List of SFC Diagram Symbols
4.2 Steps
Steps are the basic units for comprising a block, and each step consists of operation outputs.
• The following table indicates the number of steps that can be used in one block.
CPU module type Maximum number of steps in Maximum number of steps
one block for all blocks
Basic model QCPU 128 steps 1024 steps
High Performance model QCPU 512 steps 8192 steps
Process CPU
Redundant CPU
Universal model QCPU Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU 128 steps 1024 steps
Q03UDCPU, Q03UDVCPU, Q03UDECPU, 512 steps 16384 steps*1 4
Q04UDHCPU, Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU,
Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q06UDVCPU,
Q06UDPVCPU, Q06UDEHCPU, Q10UDHCPU,
Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, Q13UDVCPU,
Q13UDPVCPU, Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU,
Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDHCPU, Q26UDVCPU,
Q26UDPVCPU, Q26UDEHCPU,
Q50UDEHCPU, Q100UDEHCPU
LCPU L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P 128 steps 1024 steps
L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, 512 steps 16384 steps*2
L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT
QnACPU 512 steps 8192 steps

*1 For the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12051" or earlier, the maximum number of steps for all blocks is
8192.
*2 For the modules whose serial number (first five digits) is "15101" or earlier, the maximum number of steps is 8192 for all blocks.
• Serial step numbers are assigned to the steps in creation order at the time of SFC program creation. The user can specify
the step numbers to change them within the range of the maximum number of steps in one block. The step numbers are
used for monitoring the executed step and for making a forced start or end with the SFC control instruction.

Step (without step attribute)

During processing of steps without attributes, the next transition condition is constantly monitored, with transition to the next
step occurring when the condition is satisfied.

Output status after a transition to the next step

The operation output status of each step (n) varies after a transition to the next step (n + 1), depending on the instruction
used.

■When the OUT instruction is used (excluding OUT C)

When a transition to the next step occurs and the corresponding step becomes inactive, the output turned ON by the OUT
instruction turns OFF automatically. The timer also turns OFF its coil and contact and also clears its present value.
When transition condition "n" becomes satisfied at the step "n" operation output where Y0 is ON
(in accordance with the OUT instruction), Y0 is automatically switched OFF.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.2 Steps 47
 ■When the SET, basic or application instruction is used
If a transition to the next step occurs and the corresponding step becomes inactive, the device remains ON or the data stored
in the device is held. To turn OFF the ON device or clear the data stored in the device, use the RST instruction, etc. at another
step.
When transition condition "n" becomes satisfied at the step "n" operation output where
Y0 is ON (by SET instruction), the Y0 ON status will be maintained even after the
transition to step "n + 1".

■When the OUT C instruction is used:

• If the execution conditions for the counter at step "n" are already ON when transition condition "n" is satisfied, the counter's
count will increase by 1 when step "n" becomes active.
If X10 at step n is already ON while step (n-1) is active, counter C0 counts once when
execution proceeds to step n after transition condition n is satisfied.

• When a transition to the next step occurs before the reset instruction of the counter is executed, the present value of the
counter and the ON/OFF status of the contact are held if the corresponding step becomes inactive. To reset the counter,
use the RST instruction, etc. at another step.
When the counter (C0) is reset at step "n+1" (or subsequent step), the present value
will be cleared, and the contact will be switched OFF.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

48 4.2 Steps
PLS or P instruction used for the operation output of any step
The PLS or  P instruction used for the operation output of any step is executed every time the corresponding step turns from
an inactive to an active status if the execution condition contact is always ON.

The ladder shown above is actually executed as shown below. Because the step conditions contact is ON when the step is
active and OFF when the step is inactive, the PLS or  P instruction will be executed when the step becomes active, even
though the execution condition contact is always ON.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.2 Steps 49
 Initial step
The initial step represents the beginning of a block. Up to 32 initial steps per block can be designated. When there are more
than one initial step, the coupling enabled is only a selective coupling. Execute the initial steps in the same way as executing
the steps other than the initial step.

Active steps at block START

When the block that has more than one initial step is started, the active steps change depending on the starting method as
described below.

■All initial steps become active.

• When a start is made using the block START step
• When a start is made using the block START instruction (SET BLm) of the SFC control instructions
• When a forced start is made using the block START/END bit of the SFC information devices

■Only the specified step becomes active.

• When any of the initial steps is specified using the step control instruction (SET BLm\Sn, SET Sn) of the SFC control
instructions

Transition processing performed when multiple initial steps become active

If steps are selectively coupled in the block that has more than one active initial steps, the step immediately after the coupling
becomes active if any of the transition conditions immediately before the coupling is satisfied. In the above program example,
step 8 (S8) becomes active when any of transition conditions t4 to t7 is satisfied. When, after the step immediately after the
coupling (S8 in the above program example) becomes active, another transition condition immediately before the coupling
(any of t4 to t7 in the above program example) is satisfied, reactivation processing is performed as a follow-up function. The
processing, which will be performed when another transition condition is satisfied with the step immediately after coupling
being active, can be selected between STOP, WAIT and TRANSFER in the "Operation mode at transition to active step
(double step START)" in the block parameter setting of the SFC setting dialog box in the Tools menu. ( Page 130
Operation mode at transition to active step (double step START))

For the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU, setting of "Operation mode at transition to
active step (double step START)" is not allowed. It operates in the default "TRANSFER" mode.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

50 4.2 Steps
Operation of the initial steps with step attributes
The operation of the initial steps with step attributes is the same as that of the other steps. Refer to Page 51 Coil HOLD step
to Page 56 Reset step.

Dummy step
A dummy step is a waiting step, etc., which contains no operation output program.
• The transition condition following the corresponding step is always checked during execution of a dummy step, and
execution proceeds to the next step when the transition condition is satisfied.
• The dummy step changes to a step (without step attribute, indication: ) when an operation output program is created.

Coil HOLD step 4

A coil HOLD step is a step where the coil output status is maintained in the transition to the next step. (The coil output is
switched ON by the OUT instruction when the transition condition is satisfied.)

Coil switched ON by the OUT instruction when the transition condition is satisfied
During normal SFC program operation, the coil ON status (switched ON by OUT instruction when transition condition is
satisfied) is automatically switched OFF before proceeding to the next step. By designating an operation output step as a "coil
HOLD step", the coil ON status will remain in effect when proceeding to the next step.
• When designated as a coil HOLD step • When not designated as a coil HOLD step
1. When step n is executed 1. When step n is executed

2. When a transition to step (n+1) occurs 2. When a transition to step (n+1) occurs

At a designated coil HOLD step, "Y10" (switched ON by OUT instruction) will At steps not designated as coil HOLD steps, "Y10" (switched ON by OUT
remain ON even when the transition condition is satisfied. instruction) is automatically switched OFF when the transition condition is
satisfied.

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4.2 Steps 51
 Ladder processing occurred after a transition to the next step
No ladder processing occurs following a transition to the next step. Therefore, the coil output status will remain unchanged
even if the input conditions are changed.

Y10

Timing at coil is turned off when coil at coil HOLD step has been turned on to next step
When a coil ON status (at coil HOLD step) has been maintained to the next step, the coil will be switched OFF at any of the
following times:
• When the end step of the corresponding block is executed. (Except when SM327 is ON)
• When an SFC control instruction (RST, BLm) designates a forced END at the block in question.
• When an SFC control instruction (RST, BLm\Sn, RST Sn) designates a reset at the block in question.
• When a reset occurs at the device designated as the SFC information register's block START/END device.
• When a reset step for resetting the step in question becomes active.
• When the SFC START/STOP command (SM321) is switched OFF.
• When the coil in question is reset by the program.
• When the STOP instruction is executed with the stop-time output mode OFF.
• When S999 is designated at the reset step in the corresponding block.

Block STOP processing

Make a block STOP using the STOP/RESTART bit of the SFC information devices or the block STOP instruction of the SFC
control instructions. The processing of the active step in the block where a block STOP was made is as described below.

■When the "block STOP-time operation output flag (SM325)" is OFF (coil output OFF)
• The step becomes inactive when the processing of the corresponding block is performed first after a block STOP request.
• All coil outputs turn OFF. However, the coils turned ON by the SET instruction remain ON.

■When the "block STOP-time operation output flag (SM325)" is ON (coil output held)
The coil outputs remain ON during a block STOP and after a block RESTART.

Precautions when designating coil HOLD steps

• When the execution condition of the PLS instruction is satisfied and the transition condition is satisfied at the same scan
where the PLS instruction was executed, the device turned ON by the PLS instruction remains ON until the OFF condition
in above (3) is satisfied.
• When the execution condition of the PLF instruction is satisfied and the transition condition is satisfied at the same scan
where the PLF instruction was executed, the device turned ON by the PLF instruction remains ON until the OFF condition
in above (3) is satisfied.
• If the count input condition turns ON/OFF after a transition to the next step, the counter does not start counting.
• When a step transition occurs after the transition condition is satisfied with the coil of the timer ON, the timer stops timing
and holds the then present value.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

52 4.2 Steps
Operation HOLD step (without transition check)
An operation HOLD step (without transition check) is a step where the operation output processing of the corresponding step
continues after a transition to the next step. However, transition processing to the next step is not executed if the transition
condition is satisfied again at the corresponding step.

Coil switched ON by the OUT instruction when the transition condition is satisfied
During normal SFC program operation, the coil ON status (switched ON by OUT instruction when transition condition is
satisfied) is automatically switched OFF before proceeding to the next step. When an operation output step is designated as
an operation HOLD step (without transition check), the corresponding step will remain active after a transition to the next step,
and operation output processing will continue. Therefore, when the input condition changes, the coil status also changes.
4

Transition condition check after the next step becomes active

The transition conditions have been satisfied, so no transition condition check is performed after the next step becomes
active. Therefore, no step transition (subsequent transition) will occur even if the transition conditions for the relevant step are
satisfied again.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.2 Steps 53
 Timing when an operation HOLD step becomes inactive
An operation HOLD step (without transition check) becomes inactive when any of the following occur:
• When the END step of the block in question is executed.
• When an SFC control instruction (RST BLm) designates a forced END at the block in question.
• When the corresponding step is reset by the SFC control instruction (RST BLm\Sn, RST Sn). (Except when SM327 is ON)
• When the device designated as the block START/END device of the SFC information devices is reset.
• When a reset step for resetting the step in question becomes active.
• When "S999" is designated at the reset step in the same block.
• When the SFC START/STOP command (SM321) is switched OFF.

Block STOP processing

The following processing is performed when a block STOP request is issued to the corresponding block using the STOP/
RESTART bit of the SFC information devices or the block STOP instruction of the SFC control instructions.

■STOP status timing

A STOP status is established after the block STOP request output occurs, and processing returns to the beginning of the
block in question.

■Coil output
A coil output OFF or HOLD status will be established, depending on the output mode setting at the time of the block STOP
designated in the SFC operation mode. ( Page 126 Output mode at block STOP)
However, an ON status will be maintained for coil outputs which were switched ON by the SET instruction.

• When the transition condition immediately before the corresponding step is satisfied or when the step is
reactivated by a JUMP transition, a transition will occur again when the transition condition is satisfied.
• Double STARTs do not apply to reactivated steps.

Operation HOLD step (with transition check)

An operation HOLD step (with transition check) is a step where the operation output processing of the corresponding step
continues after a transition to the next step. When the transition condition is satisfied again at the corresponding step,
transition processing to the next step (reactivation) is executed.

Coil switched ON by the OUT instruction when the transition condition is satisfied
During normal SFC program operation, the coil ON status (switched ON by OUT instruction when transition condition is
satisfied) is automatically switched OFF before proceeding to the next step. When an operation output step is designated as
an operation HOLD step (with transition check), the corresponding step will remain active after a transition to the next step,
and operation output processing will continue. Therefore, when the input condition changes, the coil status also changes.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

54 4.2 Steps
Transition condition check after the next step becomes active
The transition condition will be checked after the transition condition is satisfied and the next step is activated. Hence, when
the transition condition of the corresponding step is satisfied again, a transition to the next step (subsequent transition) occurs
to activate it. At this time, the current step remains active.

• Convert the transition conditions into pulses. If they are not pulsed, transition processing to the next step is
performed every scan while the condition is satisfied.
• When a double START occurs as the transition condition was satisfied with the transition destination step
being active, the processing changes depending on the parameter setting. The Basic model QCPU does
not allow the parameters to be selected. It operates in the default "Transfer" mode. Refer to  Page 130
Operation mode at transition to active step (double step START) for the parameter setting and the
processing performed for each setting.
• The difference between the operation HOLD step (with transition check) and the operation HOLD step
(without transition check) is whether the next step will be activated or not as a follow-up when the transition
condition is satisfied again.

Timing when an operation HOLD step becomes inactive

An operation HOLD step (with transition check) becomes inactive when any of the following occur:
• When the end step of the corresponding block is executed.
• When an SFC control instruction (RST BLm) designates a forced END at the block in question.
• When an SFC control instruction (RST BLm\Sn, RST Sn) designates a reset at the block in question.
• When a reset occurs at the device designated as the SFC information register's block START/END device.
• When a reset step for resetting the step in question becomes active.
• When "S999" is designated at the reset step in the same block.
• When the SFC START/STOP command (SM321) is switched OFF.

Block STOP processing

Make a block STOP using the STOP/RESTART bit of the SFC information devices or the block STOP instruction of the SFC
control instructions. The processing of the active step in the block where a block STOP was made is as described below.

■When the "block STOP-time operation output flag (SM325)" is OFF (coil output OFF)
• The step becomes inactive when the processing of the corresponding block is performed first after a block STOP request.
• All coil outputs turn OFF. However, the coils turned ON by the SET instruction remain ON.

■When the "block STOP-time operation output flag (SM325)" is ON (coil output held)
The coil outputs remain ON during a block STOP and after a block RESTART.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.2 Steps 55
 Reset step
A reset step is a step which designates a forced deactivation of another specified step (operation output). The reset step
deactivates the designated step in the current block before execution of the operation output every scan. Except the
deactivation of the specified step, the reset step execute the operation output with the same functions as a normal step
(without step attributes).

When deactivating only the designated step

Set the step number to be deactivated to the specified step number Sn.

When deactivating all the held steps

Set "999" to the specified step number Sn. When the number of the specified step is "999", the following are batch-
deactivated.
• Coil HOLD steps in the current block
• Operation HOLD steps (without transition check)
• Operation HOLD step (with transition check)

• Only held steps can be deactivated by the reset step. HOLD steps that are active but not held and steps that
are not specified as the HOLD steps are not the targets of the reset step.
• For the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU, a step of the CPU itself cannot be specified
as a reset step.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

56 4.2 Steps
Block START step (with END check)
A block START step (with END check) is the step where the specified block is started, and when the START destination block
is then deactivated, the check of the transition condition to the next step is started.

The operation of the block START step (with END check) is described below.
• When activated, the block START step (with END check) starts the specified block.
• No processing is performed until the START destination block is deactivated after its execution has ended.
• When the START destination block is deactivated after its execution has ended, only the transition condition check is
performed.
• When the transition condition is satisfied, a transition to the next step occurs.
4

Start for a single block

A simultaneous start cannot be made for a single block. The block that has already started cannot be started, either. If either
of the above starts is made, the following processing is performed depending on the setting of the operation mode at block
double START.

■When the setting of the operation mode at block double START is "STOP"
A "BLOCK EXE. ERROR" (error code: 4620) occurs and the CPU module stops processing.

■When the setting of the operation mode at block double START is the default setting of
"WAIT"
Processing is not performed and waits until the START destination block ends its execution.

For the following CPU modules, the operation mode at double block START cannot be set. The operation
mode at double block START is limited to the "WAIT" mode.
• Basic model QCPU
• Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCP
• Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12051" or earlier
• L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P
• LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15101" or earlier

Block START request

A block START request can start multiple blocks simultaneously by performing a parallel transition The steps in the
simultaneously started blocks are processed in parallel.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.2 Steps 57
 Number of concurrently active steps
The following table indicates the number of steps that can be executed simultaneously in all blocks and the maximum number
of active steps in a single block.
CPU module type Number of steps that can be Maximum number of active
executed simultaneously in steps in one block
all blocks
Basic model QCPU 1024 steps 128 steps
High Performance model QCPU 1280 steps 256 steps
Process CPU
Redundant CPU
Universal model QCPU Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU 1024 steps 128 steps
Q03UDCPU, Q03UDVCPU, Q03UDECPU, 1280 steps 256 steps
Q04UDHCPU, Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU,
Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q06UDVCPU,
Q06UDPVCPU, Q06UDEHCPU, Q10UDHCPU,
Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, Q13UDVCPU,
Q13UDPVCPU, Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU,
Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDHCPU, Q26UDVCPU,
Q26UDPVCPU, Q26UDEHCPU,
Q50UDEHCPU, Q100UDEHCPU
LCPU L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P 1024 steps 128 steps
L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, 1280 steps 256 steps
L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT
QnACPU 1280 steps 256 steps

• The block START step (with END check) cannot be described immediately before the coupling of a parallel
coupling. (The block START step (with END check) cannot be used for a wait.) The block START step
(without END check) can be described immediately before the coupling of a parallel coupling.
• The execution status of each block can be checked at another block using the block START/END bit of the
SFC information devices or the block activation check instruction of the SFC control instructions.

Block START step (without END check)

A block START step (without END check) is the step where the specified block is started, and if the START destination block
is active, the check of the transition condition to the next step is performed.

Operation of block START step (without END check)

• When activated, the block START step (without END check) starts the specified block.
• After starting the specified block, the step performs only the check of the transition condition.
• When the transition condition is satisfied, execution proceeds to the next step without waiting for the START destination
block to end.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

58 4.2 Steps
Start for a single block
A simultaneous start cannot be made for a single block. The block that has already started cannot be started, either. If either
of the above starts is made, the following processing is performed depending on the setting of the operation mode at block
double START.

■When the setting of the operation mode at block double START is "STOP"
A "BLOCK EXE. ERROR" (error code: 4620) occurs and the CPU module stops processing.

■When the setting of the operation mode at block double START is the default setting of
"WAIT"
Processing is not performed and waits until the START destination block ends its execution.

4
For the following CPU modules, the operation mode at double block START cannot be set. The operation
mode at double block START is limited to the "WAIT" mode.
• Basic model QCPU
• Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCP
• Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12051" or earlier
• L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P
• LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15101" or earlier

Block START request

A block START request can start multiple blocks simultaneously by performing a parallel transition The steps in the
simultaneously started blocks are processed in parallel.

Number of steps that can be executed simultaneously

The following table indicates the number of steps that can be executed simultaneously and the maximum number of HOLD
steps in a single block.
CPU module type Number of steps that Maximum number of HOLD steps
can be executed in one block
simultaneously
Basic model QCPU 1024 steps 128 steps
High Performance model QCPU 1280 steps 256 steps
Process CPU
Redundant CPU
Universal Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU 1024 steps 128 steps
model QCPU Q03UDCPU, Q03UDVCPU, Q03UDECPU, Q04UDHCPU, 1280 steps 256 steps
Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU, Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDHCPU,
Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU, Q06UDEHCPU, Q10UDHCPU,
Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU,
Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU, Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDHCPU,
Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU, Q26UDEHCPU,
Q50UDEHCPU, Q100UDEHCPU
LCPU L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P 1024 steps 128 steps
L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, 1280 steps 256 steps
L26CPU-PBT
QnACPU 1280 steps 256 steps

The execution status of each block can be checked at another block using the block START/END bit or the
block activation check instruction of the SFC control instructions.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.2 Steps 59
 End step
An end step indicates that a series of processings in the corresponding block is all ended.

Operation of end step

When the end step is reached, the following processing is performed to end the block.
• All steps in the block are deactivated. (The held step are also deactivated.)
• The coil outputs turned ON by the OUT instruction are all turned OFF. When the special relay for output mode at end step
execution (SM327) is ON, however, the coil outputs of the held steps all remain ON.

• SM327 is valid only when the end step is reached. When a forced end is made by the block END instruction,
etc., the coil outputs of all steps are turned OFF.
• SM327 is valid for only the HOLD steps being held. The outputs of the HOLD steps that are not held as the
transition conditions are not satisfied are all turned OFF.

Continuing execution of active step

When the special relay for clear processing mode at arrival at end step (SM328) is turned ON, the execution of the active step
other than the one held in the block can be continued when the end step is reached. (The block is not ended if the end step is
executed.) However, when there is only the held step left in the block at arrival at the end step, the held step is deactivated
and the block ends if SM328 is ON.

For the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU, SM328 can be used to continue execution of
active steps other than the one held in the block.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

60 4.2 Steps
Precautions to be taken when SM328 is turned ON
The following gives the precautions to be taken when SM328 is turned ON
• When there is only the held step left at arrival at the end step, that held step is deactivated if SM328 is ON. When the user
does not want to turn OFF the coil output of the held step suddenly, it can be prevented by turning ON SM327.
• If a block is started at the block START step when SM328 is ON, execution returns to the source as soon as there are no
non-held active steps in the block.
• Do not describe an always satisfied transition condition immediately after the operation HOLD step (with transition check).
(1) Since the transition condition is always satisfied, step (m+1) remains an active step
(non-held active status).
(2) If M0 turns ON and the transition condition is satisfied, block m cannot be ended.
(3) Since block m is not ended, execution cannot proceed to step (n+1).

• When the transition condition immediately after the operation HOLD step (with transition check) is always
satisfied, the next step is kept in a "non-held active status". Therefore, the block cannot be ended when
SM328 is ON. Further, if this block has been started at the block START step (with END check), processing
cannot be returned to the START source step.
• When it is desired to describe an always satisfied transition condition immediately after the operation HOLD
step (with transition check), make provision so that the block can be forcibly ended from outside.

Restart after end step execution

After end step execution, a restart is performed as described below.
Block No. Restarting Method
Block 0 START condition of block 0 is set to "Auto Execution automatically returns to the initial step again, and processing is executed
START ON" in the SFC setting of the PLC repeatedly.
parameter dialog box
START condition of block 0 is set to "Auto A restart is made when any of the following is executed.
START OFF" in the SFC setting of the PLC • When another START request is received from another block (when the block START step
parameter dialog box is activated)
• When the block START instruction of the SFC control instructions is executed
All blocks other than block 0
• When the block START/END bit of the block information devices is forcibly turned ON

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.2 Steps 61
 Instructions that cannot be used with operation outputs
The following table lists instructions that cannot be used with operation outputs.
Class Instruction Code Symbol Function
Master control MC MC N No.1_D Master control set
MCR MCR N Master control reset
End FEND FEND Main routine program end
END END Sequence program end
Program branch CJ CJ P Conditional jump*3
SCJ SCJ P Delayed jump*3
JMP JMP P Unconditional jump*3
GOEND GOEND Jump to END
Program control IRET IRET Return from interrupt program*4
Structuring BREAK BREAK (d) P Repetitive forced end
RET RET Return from subroutine
Debugging troubleshooting (The Basic CHKST CHKST CHK instruction start
model QCPU, Universal model QCPU,
CHK CHK Specific format error check
and LCPU do not support the
function.) CHKCIR CHKCIR Check pattern change start
CHKEND CHKEND Check pattern change end
SFC dedicated instruction SFCP SFCP SFC program start
SFCPEND SFCPEND SFC program end
BLOCK BLOCK (s) SFC block start
BEND BEND SFC block end
STEP?*1 STEP? (s)*1 SFC step start
TRAN?*2 TRAN? (s)*2 SFC transition start
TAND TAND (s) SFC coupling check
TSET TSET (s) SFC transition destination designation
SEND SEND SFC step end

*1 ? = N, D, SC, SE, ST, R, C, G, I, ID, ISC, ISE, IST, IR

*2 ? = L, O, OA, OC, OCA, A, C, CA, CO, COC
*3 Label P cannot be used, either.
*4 Label I cannot be used, either.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

62 4.2 Steps
4.3 Transition
A transition is the basic unit for comprising a block, and is used by specifying a transition condition. A transition condition is a
condition for execution to proceed to the next step, and execution proceeds to the next step when the condition is satisfied.
Type Function Outline
Serial transition When the transition condition is satisfied, execution proceeds from the current step to the subsequent step.
Selection transition (branch/ A single step branches out into multiple transition conditions. Among those multiple transition conditions, execution proceeds
coupling) to only the step in the line where the transition condition is satisfied first.
Parallel transition (branch/ Execution simultaneously proceeds to all multiple steps that branch from a single step. When all steps immediately before a
coupling) coupling are activated, execution proceeds to the next step when the common transition condition is satisfied.
Jump transition When the transition condition is satisfied, execution proceeds to the specified step in the same block.

4
Serial transition
"Serial transition" is the transition format in which processing proceeds to the step immediately below the current step when
the transition condition is satisfied.
When transition condition "b" becomes satisfied at step "n" (operation output [A]) execution, operation output [A]
will be deactivated, and processing will proceed to step "n+1" (operation output [B]).

A maximum of 512 serial transition steps can be described in each block.*1 Therefore, a maximum of 512 serial transitions (+)
can be described. However, there is a restriction on the number of lines as indicated below depending on the SFC display
column setting.
*1 128 for the Basic model QCPU, Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU, L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, and L02CPU-P.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.3 Transition 63
 4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION
64 4.3 Transition
The following flow chart describes the operating status of the series sequence.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.3 Transition 65
 Selection transition
A "selection transition" is the transition format in which several steps are coupled in a parallel manner, with processing
occurring only at the step where the transition condition is satisfied first.
Item SFC diagram Description
Branch • From step "n", processing will proceed to either step "n+1" or step
"n+2", depending on which transition condition ("b" or "c") is satisfied
first.
• If both transition conditions are satisfied simultaneously, the
condition to the left will take precedence. Step "n" will then be
deactivated.
• Subsequent processing will proceed from step to step in the selected
column until another parallel coupling selection occurs.

Coupling When the transition condition ("b" or "c") at the executed branch is
satisfied, the executed step ([A] or [B]) will be deactivated, and
processing will proceed to step "n+2".

Up to 32 steps can be available for selection in the selection transition format.

When two or more selection step transition conditions are satisfied simultaneously, the left-most condition will take
precedence.
If transition conditions "c" and "d" are satisfied simultaneously, the step "n+2"
operation output will be executed.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

66 4.3 Transition
In a selection transition, a coupling can be omitted by a jump transition or end transition.
When transition condition "b" is satisfied at the step "n" operation output, processing will proceed in
order through steps "n+1", "n+2" and "n+3". When transition condition "d" is satisfied, processing will
jump to step "n". ( Page 73 Jump transition)

In a selective transition, the number of branches and the number of couplings may be different. However, a
selection branch and parallel coupling or a parallel branch and selection coupling cannot be combined.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.3 Transition 67
 The following flow chart describes the operating status of the selective sequence.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

68 4.3 Transition
Parallel transition
"Parallel transition" is the transition format in which several steps linked in parallel are processed simultaneously when the
relevant transition condition is satisfied.
Item SFC diagram Description
Branch • From step "n", processing will proceed simultaneously to steps
"n+1" and "n+3" when transition condition "b" is satisfied.
• Processing will proceed to step "n+4" when transition condition "c"
is satisfied, and to step "n+4" when transition condition "d" is
satisfied.

Coupling • When transition conditions "b" and "c" are satisfied at step "n" and
step "n+1" execution, steps "n" and "n+1" will be deactivated, and
processing will proceed to the waiting steps.
• Waiting steps are used to synchronize parallel processing
operations. Parallel processing steps always proceed to a waiting
step. When condition "d" is satisfied at the waiting steps, processing
will proceed to step "n+2".
• Waiting steps are dummy steps which require no operation output
ladder.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.3 Transition 69
 Up to 32 steps can processed simultaneously with the parallel transition format.

If another block is started by the parallel processing operation, the START source block and START destination block will be
executed simultaneously. (In the example below, processing from step "n+1" will be executed simultaneously with block 1.)
When condition "b" is satisfied at step "n" execution, processing will proceed to step "n+1" and block 1
will be started. Blocks "0" and "1" will then be processed simultaneously.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

70 4.3 Transition
The following table indicates the number of steps that can be executed simultaneously in all blocks and the maximum number
of active steps in a single block. If the number of simultaneously processed steps exceeds the value in the following table, an
error occurs and the CPU module stops processing.
CPU module type Number of steps Maximum number of active steps
that are processed in one block
simultaneously
Basic model QCPU 1024 steps 128 steps
High Performance model QCPU 1280 steps 256 steps
Process CPU
Redundant CPU
Universal Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU 1024 steps 128 steps
model QCPU
Q03UDCPU, Q03UDVCPU, Q03UDECPU, Q04UDHCPU, 1280 steps 256 steps
Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU, Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDHCPU,
Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU, Q06UDEHCPU, Q10UDHCPU,
4
Q10UDEHCPU, Q13UDHCPU, Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU,
Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU, Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDHCPU,
Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU, Q26UDEHCPU, Q50UDEHCPU,
Q100UDEHCPU
LCPU L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P 1024 steps 128 steps
L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, L26CPU- 1280 steps 256 steps
PBT
QnACPU 1280 steps 256 steps

Couplings must be provided when the parallel transition format is used. Program creation is impossible without couplings.

Ex.
Program without couplings (Cannot be designated)

As a rule, a waiting step must be created prior to the coupling. However, in cases such as the example below where each of
the parallel transition columns consist of only 1 step (program without a transition condition between the parallel transition
branch and the coupling), a waiting step is not required.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.3 Transition 71
 The following flow chart describes the operating status of the simultaneous sequence.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

72 4.3 Transition
Jump transition
A "jump transition" is a jump to a specified step within the same block which occurs when the transition condition is satisfied.
SFC diagram Description
When condition "b" is satisfied at step "n" execution, step "n" (operation output [A]) is
deactivated, and processing proceeds to step "m".

There are no restrictions regarding the number of jump transitions within a single block.
In the parallel transition format, only jumps in the vertical direction are possible at each of the branches. 4
Ex.
Jump transition program in vertical direction from branch to coupling

A program of a jump transition to another vertically branched ladder, a jump transition for exiting from a parallel branch, or a
jump transition to a parallel branch from outside a parallel branch cannot be created.

Ex.
Program for exiting from parallel branch (cannot be designated)

Do not specify a jump transition to the current step when the transition condition is satisfied as shown below.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.3 Transition 73
 Precautions when creating sequence programs for operation
outputs (steps) and transition conditions
The points to consider when creating operation output (step) and transition condition sequence programs are described
below.

Sequence program for operation outputs (steps)

■Step sequence program expression format
A step sequence program using the ladder expression format is shown below.

The lack of a sequence program at a given step will not result in an error. In such cases, no processing will
occur until the transition condition immediately following the step in question is satisfied.

Sequence program for transition condition

■Transition condition sequence program expression format
A transition condition sequence program using the ladder expression format is shown below.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

74 4.3 Transition
■Instructions used
Instructions which can be used in a transition condition sequence program are listed below.
: Usable, : Unusable
Class Instructi Symbol Function CPU Module Type
on Code Basic model High Universal
QCPU Performance model QCPU,
Model QCPU, LCPU
Process CPU,
QnACPU
Contacts LD Operation START (N/O contact)   
AND Serial connection (N/O contact)
OR Parallel connection (N/O
contact)
LDI Operation START (N/C contact)    4
ANI Serial connection (N/C contact)
ORI Parallel connection (N/C
contact)
Contacts LDP Leading edge pulse operation   
ANDP START
ORP Leading edge pulse serial
connection
Leading edge pulse parallel
connection
LDF Trailing edge pulse operation   
ANDF START
ORF Trailing edge pulse serial
connection
Trailing edge pulse parallel
connection
Coupling ANB  Ladder block serial connection   
ORB Ladder block parallel connection

INV Operation result inversion   

MEP Operation results converted to   

MEF leading edge pulse
(step memory)
Operation results converted to
trailing edge pulse
(step memory)
EGP Operation results converted to   
EGF leading edge pulse
(memory)
Operation results converted to
trailing edge pulse
(memory)

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.3 Transition 75
 Class Instructi Symbol Function CPU Module Type
on Code Basic model High Universal
QCPU Performance model QCPU,
Model QCPU, LCPU
Process CPU,
QnACPU
Comparison LD LD (s1) (s2) BIN16 bit data comparison   
operation AND AND (s1) (s2)
OR OR (s1) (s2)
 (=, <>, >, >=, <, <=)
LDD LDD (s1) (s2) BIN32 bit data comparison   
ANDD ANDD (s1) (s2)
ORD ORD (s1) (s2)
 (=, <>, >, >=, <, <=)
LDE LDE (s1) (s2) Floating decimal point data   
ANDE ANDE (s1) (s2) comparison
ORE ORE (s1) (s2)
 (=, <>, >, >=, <, <=)
LDED LDED (s1) (s2) Floating decimal point data   
ANDED ANDED (s1) (s2) comparison
ORED ORED (s1) (s2)
 (=, <>, >, >=, <, <=)
LD$ LD$ (s1) (s2) Character string data   
AND$ AND$ (s1) (s2) comparison
OR$ OR$ (s1) (s2)
 (=, <>, >, >=, <, <=)

• When using the leading edge pulse instructions mentioned below for the execution condition (<a> on the
right) of "Tran" instruction on the transition condition, the "Tran" instruction becomes conductive only when
the condition of the leading edge pulse instruction turns from OFF to ON after the step (<b> on the right)
that is associated with the transition condition becomes active. As described in the following time chart,
"Tran" instruction is executed and the active step moves to the next step. (Leading edge pulse instruction:
LDP, ANDP, ORP, MEP, and EGP)

• When the execution condition (<a> on the right) of "Tran" instruction on the transition condition has been
turned ON before the step (<b> on the right) becomes active, the "Tran" instruction does not become
conductive and the active step does not move to the next step.
• When using the leading edge pulse instruction mentioned above for the execution condition (<a> on the
right) of "Tran" instruction, specify a device whose condition turns from OFF to ON after the step (<b> on the
right) becomes active.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

76 4.3 Transition
4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC
Control Instructions)
SFC control instructions can be used to check a block or step operation status (active/inactive), or to execute a forced START
or END, etc.
An normal SFC program can be controlled by SFC control instructions in a sequence program and SFC program.
(A program execution management SFC program cannot be controlled by using SFC control instructions.)
The types and functions of the SFC control instructions will be described.
Name Ladder Expression Function CPU Module Type
Basic High Universal
model
QCPU
Performance
Model QCPU,
model
QCPU,
4
Process CPU, LCPU
Redundant
CPU, QnACPU

Step operation LD, AND, OR, Sn*1 Checks a specified step in a   

status check LDI, ANI, ORI specified block to determine if the
instruction 0 step is active or inactive.
LD, AND, OR, BLm\Sn
LDI, ANI, ORI
Forced transition LD, AND, OR, TRn*1 Checks a specified step in a   
check instruction LDI, ANI, ORI specified block to determine if the
LD, AND, OR, BLn\TRn transition condition (by transition
control instruction) for that step was
LDI, ANI, ORI
satisfied forcibly or not.
Block operation LD, AND, OR, BLm Checks a specified block to   
status check LDI, ANI, ORI determine if it is active or inactive.
instruction
Active steps batch MOV(P) K4Sn (d)*1 Active steps in a specified block are   
readout instruction read to a specified device as bit
information.
MOV(P) BLm\K4Sn (d)

DMOV(P) K8Sn (d)*1

DMOV(P) BLm\K8Sn (d)

BMOV(P) K4Sn (d) Kn*1

BMOV(P) BLm\K4Sn(d) Kn

Block START SET BLm A specified block is forcibly started   

instruction (activated) independently and is
executed from an initial step.
Block END RST BLm A specified block is forcibly ended   
instruction (deactivated).

Block STOP PAUSE BLm A specified block is temporarily   

instruction stopped.

Block restart RSTART BLm The temporary stop status at a   

instruction specified block is canceled, with
operation resuming from the STOP
step.
Step START SET Sn*1 A specified block is forcibly started   
instruction (activated) independently and is
SET BLm\Sn
executed from a specified step.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 77
 Name Ladder Expression Function CPU Module Type
Basic High Universal
model Performance model
QCPU Model QCPU, QCPU,
Process CPU, LCPU
Redundant
CPU, QnACPU

Step END RST Sn*1 A specified step in a specified block   

instruction is forcibly ended (deactivated).
RST BLm\Sn
SCHG (d)*2 The instruction execution step is   
deactivated, and a specified step is
activated.
Transition control SET TRn*1 A specified transition condition at a   
instruction specified block is forcibly satisfied.
SET BLm\TRn
RST TRn*1 The forced transition at a specified   
transition condition in a specified
RST BLm\TRn
block is canceled.
Block switching BRSET (s) Blocks subject to the "*1" SFC   *3
instruction control instruction are designated.

: Usable, : Unusable
*1 In a sequence program, block 0 is the instruction execution target block.
In an SFC program, the current block is the instruction execution target block.
The instruction execution target block can be changed with the block switching instruction (BRSET).
Note, however, that the following CPU modules cannot use the BRSET instruction.
Basic model QCPU
Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13101" or earlier
LCPU
*2 Can be used at the step of an SFC program.
An error occurs if it is executed in a sequence program other than an SFC program.
*3 The Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13102" or later can execute this instruction.

• Either of the following errors occurs if the SFC control instruction is executed from the sequence program
when the special relay for SFC program start/stop (SM321) is OFF.
Instruction that specifies a block: BLOCK EXE. ERROR (error No.: 4621)
Instruction that specifies a step: STEP EXE. ERROR (error No.: 4631)
• Do not use the SFC control instructions in interrupt programs or fixed scan execution type programs. If
used, operation of the SFC program cannot be guaranteed.

Index modification of SFC block (BL) and step relay (S)

The SFC block (BL) and step relay (S) in the High-speed Universal model QCPU and Universal model Process CPU can be
index-modified within the following range. Note that the range will be S0 to S511 when the step relay (S) in SFC blocks is
index-modified.
• BL0 to BL319 for the SFC block (BL)
• Range that is set in the Device tab of the PLC parameter dialog box for the step relay (S)

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

78 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
How to read tables for the instructions
The following table is used in the explanations of the various instructions. The table contents are described below.

 Ladder symbols are indicated in this area.

Destination: Indicates where data will be sent after operation.

Source: Stores data prior to operation.

 Usable devices are indicated at this area.

• Devices indicated by a circle mark () can be used with the instruction in question.
The device application classifications are shown below.
Device Internal File Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Expansion Constant Other
Class (System, User) Register R Function SFC
Bit Word Bit Word Module
U\G
Usable FX, FY, A, VD, R, ZR J\X J\W U\G Z BLm\Sn Decimal P, I, J, U, DX,
devices S, SM, X, SD, T, C, J\Y J\SW BLm\TRn hexadecimal DY, N, BL,
Y, M, L, D, W, J\B real number TR, BL\S
F, V, B, T, SW, FD, J\SB constant
C, SB ST character
string
constant

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 79
 • When a device name is indicated in the "constant", "expansion SFC", or the "other" column, only that device may be used.

Ex.
If "K, H" is indicated in the "constant" column
Only a decimal (K) or hexadecimal (H) constant may be used.
Real number constants (E) and character string constants ($) may not be used.

 The data type for the designated device is indicated here.

• Bit: Indicates a bit data operation.
• BIN16: Indicates 16-bit binary value processing (1 word used).
• BIN32: Indicates 16-bit binary value processing (2 words used).
• Character string: Indicates character string processing (Variable number of words).
• Device: Indicates device name and first device processing (Variable number of words).
 The type of program which can be used with the instruction in question is indicated here.
 The request destination for the instruction in question is indicated here.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

80 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Step operation status check instruction (LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR,
ORI) [Sn/BLm\Sn]
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU
*1
       

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 04122 or later.

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Others
(System, User) Function K, H SFC
Module U\G BLm\Sn 4
Bit Word Bit Word
*2    
(s)

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
Device name      
(s)

*2 Only step relay (S) can be used

Function
• Checks a specified step in a specified block to determine if the step is active or inactive.
• The contact status changes as described below depending on whether the specified step is inactive or active.
Contact of N/O Contact Instruction Contact of N/C Contact Instruction
Inactive OFF ON
Active ON OFF

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 81
 • Specify the step as described below.
Item Description
In the case of SFC program Use "Sn" when specifying the step in the current block.
Use "BLm\Sn" when specifying the step in another block in the SFC program.
In the case of sequence program Use "BLm\Sn" when executing the step activation check instruction.
When the block number is not specified, specify the block number with the BRSET instruction.*1

*1 Note that the following CPU modules cannot use the BRSET instruction. When no block number is specified, the block 0 is set.
 Basic model QCPU
 Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13101" or earlier
 LCPU
• If the step does not exist in the SFC program is specified, the contact remains OFF.

• As the "Sn" device is treated as a virtual device, the contact on the monitor of a peripheral device does not
turn ON/OFF. If the internal device is ON, the coil instruction is switched ON for operations.
• In the High-speed Universal model QCPU and Universal model Process CPU, the number of steps in the
step activation check instruction increases by one step from that in the QnUDE(H)CPU.

Program example
• The following program checks the status of step 5 in block 3 and turns ON Y20 when step 5 becomes active.
When step is designated by operation output of block 3

When step is designated by operation output of other than block 3 or sequence program

• The following program executes a step synchronously with another step of a parallel branch.

■Related Instructions
SFC control instructions
• Block switching instruction (BRSET): See Page 106 Block switching instruction (BRSET).
• Step control instruction (SCHG): See Page 105 Active step change instruction (SCHG).
• Active step batch readout instruction (MOV(P), DMOV(P), BMOV(P)): See Page 87 Active step batch readout (MOV and
DMOV) and Page 90 Active step batch readout (BMOV).

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

82 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Forced transition check instruction (LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR, ORI)
[TRn/BLm\TRn]
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

       

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function K, H SFC BLm/ TRn
Module U\G TRn
Bit Word Bit Word 4
(s)    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(s) Device name      

Function
• Checks whether or not the specified transition condition of the specified block is specified for forced transition by the forced
transition EXECUTE instruction (SET BLm\TRn).
• The contact status changes as described below depending on whether the specified transition condition is specified for a
forced transition or not.
Contact of N/O Contact Instruction Contact of N/C Contact Instruction
When specified for forced transition ON OFF
When not specified for forced transition OFF ON

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 83
 • Specify the transition as described below.
Item Description
In the case of SFC program Use "Sn" when specifying the step in the current block.
Use "BLm\Sn" when specifying the step in another block in the SFC program.
In the case of sequence program Use "BLm\Sn" when executing the step activation check instruction.
When the block number is not specified, specify the block number with the BRSET instruction.

• If the transition condition in question does not exist in the SFC program, it will remain OFF.

Program Examples
• The following program turns ON Y20 when transition condition 5 of block 3 is specified for a forced transition.
When transition condition is designated by operation output of block 3

When transition condition is designated by operation output of other than block 3 or sequence program

■Related Instructions
SFC control instructions
• Transition control instructions (SET TRn, SET BLm\TRn): See Page 103 Forced transition EXECUTE & CANCEL
instructions (SET, RST) [TRn/BLm\TRn].
• Transition control instructions (RST TRn, RST BLm\TRn): See Page 103 Forced transition EXECUTE & CANCEL
instructions (SET, RST) [TRn/BLm\TRn].
• Block switching instruction (BRSET): See Page 106 Block switching instruction (BRSET).

This instruction checks, from the first sequence step of the specified block in series, whether or not the
specified transition condition number is existed.
Because of this, processing time of the instruction differs depending on the program capacity of the specified
block (number of sequence steps), a maximum of hundred and several tens ms may be taken.
In case of occurring WDT error (error code: 5001), change the WDT setting value with the PLC RAS setting in
the PLC parameter.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

84 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Block operation status check instruction (LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR,
ORI) [BLm]
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU
*1
       

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 04122 or later.

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function K, H SFC BLm
Module U\G 4
Bit Word Bit Word
(s)    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(s) Device name      

Function
• Checks whether the specified block is active or inactive.
• The contact status changes as described below depending on whether the specified block is active or inactive.
Block Status Contact of N/O Contact Instruction Contact of N/C Contact Instruction
Active ON OFF
Inactive OFF ON

• The contact is always OFF if the block that does not exist in the SFC program is specified.

• As the "BLm" device is treated as a virtual device, the contact on the monitor of a peripheral device does not
turn ON/OFF. If the internal device is ON, the coil instruction is switched ON for operations.
• In the High-speed Universal model QCPU and Universal model Process CPU, the number of steps in the
step activation check instruction increases by one step from that in the QnUDE(H)CPU.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 85
 Program example
• The following program turns ON Y20 when block 3 is active.

■Related Instructions
SFC control instructions
• Block START instruction (SET BLm), block END instruction (RST BLm): See Page 94 Block START & END instructions
(SET, RST) [BLm].
SFC diagram symbols
• Block START step ( m, m): See Page 57 Block START step (with END check) and Page 58 Block START step
(without END check).
SFC information device
• Block START/END bit: See Page 109 Block START/END bit.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

86 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Active step batch readout (MOV and DMOV)
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

*1       

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 04122 or later.

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Others
(System, User) Function Module K, H SFC
U\G BLm\Sn
Bit Word Bit Word 4
(s) *2    

(d)    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(s) BIN16/BIN32      

(d)

*2 Only step relay (S) can be used

Function
• Executes a batch readout of the operation statuses (active/inactive) of steps in a specified block.
• The readout results are stored at the "(d)" device as shown below.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 87
 • The bit corresponding to the unassigned step No. (nonexistent step No.) in the read data turns to "0". When step 5 and step
8 do not exist in the read block, b5 and b8 turn to "0".

• When the block is not specified, specify the step number with which the read data range does not exceed the maximum
step No. in the block.
Item Description
If the maximum number of steps data will be undefined. For example, when the last step of the block to be read is step 10 (S10), data in b11 to 15 will be
is exceeded undefined.

When the block has been "0" is stored into the remaining bits. When block 1 is specified, "0" is stored into B11 - 15 if the last step of block 1 is step
specified 10 (S10).

• In the activation step batch read instruction, do not specify a nonexistent block/step. An error will not occur if a nonexistent
block/step is specified. However, the read data are undefined. The OPERATION ERROR (error code: 4101) will occur in
the Universal model QCPU and LCPU if a nonexistent step is specified when the block specification is not performed.
• Specify the step as described below.
Item Description
In the case of SFC program Use "K4Sn" when specifying the step in the current block.
Use "BLm\K4Sn" when specifying the step in the SFC program.
In the case of sequence program Use "BLm\K4Sn" when executing the step activation check instruction.
When the block number is not specified, specify the block number with the BRSET instruction.*1

*1 Note that the following CPU modules cannot use the BRSET instruction. When no block number is specified, the block 0 is set.
 Basic model QCPU
 Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13101" or earlier
 LCPU

• Note that the following CPU modules cannot use the BRSET instruction. When no block number is
specified, the block 0 is set.
Basic model QCPU
Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13101" or earlier
LCPU
• In the High-speed Universal model QCPU and Universal model Process CPU, the number of steps in the
step activation check instruction increases by one step from that in the QnUDE(H)CPU.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

88 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Operation Error
Error code Description
4101 • If exceeding the maximum step No. (8191) when block specification is not made (for the Universal model QCPU or LCPU)
• If specifying the stop which does not exist when block specification is not made (for the Universal model QCPU or LCPU)

Program Examples
• The following program reads 32 active steps, starting from step 0 of block 3, to D0 and D1 when X0 turns ON.
When step is designated by operation output of block 3

When step is designated by operation output of other than block 3 or sequence program
4

■Related Instructions
SFC control instructions
• Block switching instruction (BRSET): See Page 106 Block switching instruction (BRSET).
• Step operation status check instruction (LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR, ORI): See Page 81 Step operation status check instruction
(LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR, ORI) [Sn/BLm\Sn].
• Active step batch readout instruction (BMOV): See Page 90 Active step batch readout (BMOV).

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 89
 Active step batch readout (BMOV)
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

*1       

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 04122 or later.

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function Module K, H SFC s
U\G BLm\Sn
Bit Word Bit Word
(s) *2    

(d)     

(n)    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(s) BIN16      

(d)

(n)

*2 Only step relay (S) can be used

Function
• A batch readout (designated number of words) of step operation statuses is executed at the specified block.
• The readout results are stored at the "(d)" device as shown below.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

90 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
• The bit corresponding to the unassigned step No. (nonexistent step No.) in the read data turns to "0".
• If the read data range exceeds the maximum step No. in the block, the data of the next block No. are read. When there are
no blocks in and after the block to be read, "0" is stored into the remaining bits.

Ex.
When "BMOV BL1\S2 D0 K2" is executed in the following case,
• Block 1: The maximum step No. is 10 (S10) and step 5 (S5) and step 8 (S8) do not exist
• Block 2: The maximum step No. is 12 (S12) and step 3 (S3) does not exist
• Block 3 and later: Do not exist
data are stored as shown below.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 91
 • If there is a nonexistent block in the data to be read, the nonexistent block is omitted and the data of the next existing block
are read.

Ex.
When "BMOV BL1\S2 D0 K2" is executed in the following case,
• Block 1: The maximum step No. is 10 (S10)
• Block 2: Nonexistent
• Block 3: The maximum step No. is 12 (S12)
• Block 4: The maximum step No. is 15 (S15)
data are stored as shown below.

• In the activation step batch read instruction, do not specify a nonexistent block/step. An error will not occur if a nonexistent
block/step is specified. However, the read data are undefined.
• Specify the step as described below.
Item Description
In the case of SFC program Use "K4Sn" when specifying the step in the current block.
Use "BLm\K4Sn" when specifying the step in the SFC program.
In the case of sequence program Use "BLm\K4Sn" when executing the step activation check instruction.
When the block number is not specified, specify the block number with the BRSET instruction. Note, however, that the
following CPU modules cannot use the BRSET instruction. When no block number is specified, the block 0 is set.
• Basic model QCPU
• Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13101" or earlier
• LCPU

Operation Error
Error code Description
4101 When the step relay (S) range is exceeded

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

92 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Program Examples
• The following program reads the active step status of 48 steps (3 words), starting from step 0 of block 3, to D0 - D2 when
X0 turns ON.
When step is designated by operation output of block 3

When step is designated by operation output of other than block 3 or sequence program

■Related Instructions
SFC control instructions
• Block switching instruction (BRSET): See Page 106 Block switching instruction (BRSET).
• Step operation status check instruction (LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR, ORI): See Page 81 Step operation status check instruction
(LD, LDI, AND, ANI, OR, ORI) [Sn/BLm\Sn].
• Active step batch readout instruction (MOV, DMOV): See Page 87 Active step batch readout (MOV and DMOV).

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 93
 Block START & END instructions (SET, RST) [BLm]
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

*1       

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 04122 or later.

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function Module K, H SFC BLm
U\G
Bit Word Bit Word
(d)    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(d) Device name      

Function
■Block START instruction (SET BLm)
• A specified block is forcibly activated independently and is executed from its initial step. When there are multiple initial
steps, all initial steps become active. When the bock START/END bit of the SFC information devices has been set, the
corresponding bit device changes from OFF to ON.
• If the specified block is already active when this instruction is executed, the instruction will be ignored (equivalent to the
NOP instruction), and processing will continue.
• While online change (inactive block) is executed to the specified block when this instruction is executed, the instruction will
be ignored (equivalent to the NOP instruction), and the online change processing will continue. (Universal model QCPU
whose serial number (first five digits) is "12052" or later, and the LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15102" or
later only)

■Block END instruction (RST BLm)

• A specified block is forcibly deactivated independently. When there are active steps, all are deactivated and the coil outputs
are turned OFF. When the bock START/END bit of the SFC information devices has been set, the corresponding bit device
changes from ON to OFF.
• If the specified block is already inactive when this instruction is executed, the instruction will be ignored (equivalent to the
NOP instruction) and processing will continue.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

94 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Operation Error
Error code Description
4621 When the specified block does not exist or when the SFC program is in the stand-by status

Program Examples
• When X1 switches ON, the following program forcibly activates block1. When X2 switches ON, it ends and forcibly
deactivates block1.

4
■Related Instructions
SFC diagram symbols
• Block START step ( m, m): See Page 57 Block START step (with END check) and Page 58 Block START step
(without END check).
SFC information device
• Block START/END bit: See Page 109 Block START/END bit.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 95
 Block STOP and RESTART instructions (PAUSE, RSTART) [BLm]
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

*1       

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 04122 or later.

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function Module K, H SFC BLm
U\G
Bit Word Bit Word
(d)    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(d) Device name      

Function
■Block STOP instruction (PAUSE)
• Executes a temporary stop at the specified block.
• As shown below, processing varies, depending on when the stop occurs and on the coil output status setting (designated
by OUT instruction).
Setting of Operation Status of Operation
Output Mode Output at STOP-time Active step other than Held step*1
at Block Stop Block Stop Mode Bit held step (including Coil HOLD step Operation HOLD Operation HOLD
in PLC (SM325) HOLD step whose (SC) step (without step (with
Parameter transition condition is transition check) transition check)
not satisfied) (SE) (ST)
Turns OFF OFF OFF or no • Immediately after a STOP • Immediately after • Immediately after a STOP request is
(coil output OFF) (coil output OFF) setting request is made, the coil a STOP request is made, the coil output of the operation
Remains ON (immediate output of the operation made, the coil output is turned OFF and the block is
(coil output held) stop) output is turned OFF and the output of the stopped.
block is stopped. operation output • The status remains active.
• The status remains active. is turned OFF and
ON • Normal operation is the block is
(STOP after performed until the transition stopped.
transition) condition is satisfied. • The status
• When the transition becomes inactive.
condition is satisfied, the
end processing of the
corresponding step is
performed. At the same
time, the transition
destination step becomes
active and the block is
stopped before execution of
the operation output.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

96 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Setting of Operation Status of Operation
Output Mode Output at STOP-time Active step other than Held step*1
at Block Stop Block Stop Mode Bit held step (including Coil HOLD step Operation HOLD Operation HOLD
in PLC (SM325) HOLD step whose (SC) step (without step (with
Parameter transition condition is transition check) transition check)
not satisfied) (SE) (ST)
Remains ON ON OFF or no • Immediately after a STOP • Immediately after a STOP request is made, the block is stopped
(coil output held) (coil output held) setting request is made, the block is with the coil output of the operation output being held.
(immediate stopped with the coil output • The status remains active.
stop) of the operation output being
held.
• The status remains active.
ON • Normal operation is
(STOP after performed until the transition
transition) condition is satisfied. 4
• When the transition
condition is satisfied, the
end processing of the
corresponding step is
performed. At the same
time, the transition
destination step becomes
active and the block is
stopped before execution of
the operation output.

*1 The held step indicates the step whose attribute has been set to the HOLD step (SC, SE, ST) and which is being held with the transition
condition satisfied.

The operation of SM325 differs depending on the CPU module.

• For the Basic model QCPU, High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, and QnACPU
SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) at STOP to RUN
of the CPU module.
• For the Universal model QCPU and LCPU
SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) when the CPU
module is powered ON or is reset.
Turning OFF the output mode setting at block stop (coil output OFF): SM325 is OFF.
Turning ON the output mode setting at block stop (coil output held): SM325 is ON.
Note that the output mode at block stop can be changed regardless of the parameter setting by turning ON/
OFF SM325 in the user program.

• The STOP/RESTART bit switches ON when the SFC control "block STOP" instruction (PAUSE BLm) is executed.

■Block RESTART instruction (RSTART)

• The block in question is restarted from the step where a STOP occurred. An "operation HOLD status" step (with transition
check or without transition check) which has been stopped will be restarted with the operation HOLD status in effect. A "coil
output HOLD" step cannot be restarted after being stopped as it becomes deactivated at that time.
• Depending on the ON/OFF status of the "block STOP-time operation output flag (SM325)", the operations of the PLS
instruction and P instruction after block STOP cancellation change.
When SM325 is ON (coil output held): Not executed
When SM325 is OFF (coil output OFF): Executed again
• When the block STOP/RESTART bit of the SFC information devices has been set, the block STOP/RESTART bit also turns
OFF.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 97
 Operation Error
Error code Description
4621 When the specified block does not exist or when the SFC program is in the stand-by status

Program Examples
• Block 1 is stopped when X1 switches ON, and is restarted when X2 switches ON.

■Related Instructions
SFC information device
• Block STOP/RESTART bit: See Page 112 Block STOP/RESTART bit.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

98 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Step START and END instructions (SET, RST) [Sn/BLm\Sn]
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

*1       

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 04122 or later.

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function Module K, H SFC Sn
U\G BLm\Sn
Bit Word Bit Word 4
(d) *2    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(d) Device name      

*2 Only step relay (S) can be used

Function
■Step START instruction (SET)
• A specified step at a specified block is activated forcibly. Operation at the block in question varies as follows, depending on
whether the block is active or inactive.
Item Description
When the specified block is The specified block is activated when the instruction is executed, and processing starts from the specified step.
inactive: Processing is performed as shown below when step 1 in block 1 is started in the sequence program.

When the block START/END bit of the SFC information devices has been set, the corresponding bit device changes from OFF
to ON.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 99
 Item Description
When the specified block is If the step is already active when the SET instruction is executed, the step will remain active and processing will continue, with
active: another step being designated as active. (Multiple step activation, follow-up function.)
Processing is performed as shown below when step 1 in block 1 is started in the sequence program.

• When multiple initial steps exist, an initial step selection START will occur when a given step is specified and activated.
• When designating a step located in a parallel branch, all the parallel steps should be activated. An inactive parallel branch
ladder at such a time will prevent the parallel coupling condition from being satisfied.
• If a specified step is already active when this instruction is executed, the instruction will be ignored (equivalent to the NOP
instruction), and processing will continue. To hold a specified step with the HOLD step, the processing is "Transition to
HOLD step by double START". For details, refer to Page 130 Operation mode at transition to active step (double step
START).
• When the operation output is used to start the step, do not specify the current step number as the specified step number. If
the current step is designated as the specified step number, normal operation will not be performed.

S0
M0
S1 SET S1

S2

• Specify the step as described below.

Item Description
In the case of SFC program Use "Sn" when specifying the step in the current block.
Use "BLm\Sn" when specifying the step in another block.
In the case of sequence program Use "BLm\Sn" when executing the step START instruction in the sequence program.
When the block number is not specified, specify the block number with the BRSET instruction. Note, however, that the
following CPU modules cannot use the BRSET instruction. When no block number is specified, the block 0 is set.
• Basic model QCPU
• Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13101" or earlier
• LCPU

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

100 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
• While online change (inactive block) is executed to the specified block when this instruction is executed, the instruction will
be ignored (equivalent to the NOP instruction), and the online change processing will continue. (Universal model QCPU
whose serial number (first five digits) is "12052" or later, and the LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15102" or
later only)

■Step END instruction (RST)

• A specified step at a specified block is forcibly deactivated. "Coil HOLD" and "operation HOLD" steps are subject to this
instruction.
• When the number of active steps in the corresponding block reaches 0 due to the execution of this instruction, END step
processing is performed and the block becomes inactive. When the bock START/END bit of the SFC information devices
has been set, the corresponding bit device changes from ON to OFF.
• If the RST instruction is executed at a step located in a parallel branch, the parallel coupling condition will remain
unsatisfied. 4
• If a specified step is already inactive when this instruction is executed, the instruction will be ignored (equivalent to the NOP
instruction).
• When the operation output is used to end the step, do not specify the current step as the specified step number. If the
current step is designated as the specified step number, normal operation will not be performed.

S0
M0
S1 RST S1

S2

• Specify the step as described below.

Item Description
In the case of SFC program Use "Sn" when specifying the step in the current block.
Use "BLm\Sn" when specifying the step in another block.
In the case of sequence program Use "BLm\Sn" when executing the step END instruction in the sequence program.
When the block number is not specified, specify the block number with the BRSET instruction. Note, however, that the
following CPU modules cannot use the BRSET instruction. When no block number is specified, the block 0 is set.
• Basic model QCPU
• Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13101" or earlier
• LCPU

Operation Error
Error code Description
4631 When no specified step is present or the SFC program is in stand-by mode
4505 If using the own step as the specification step No. (Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU)

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 101
 Program Examples
• When X1 switches ON, the following program will select and start step 2 of block 1 which contains multiple initial steps.
(Block 1)
When step is designated by operation output of block 1

When step is designated by operation output of other than block 3 or sequence

program

• The following program deactivates held step 5 when step 10 is activated.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

102 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
 Forced transition EXECUTE & CANCEL instructions (SET, RST)
[TRn/BLm\TRn]
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

       

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function K, H SFC TRn
Module U\G BLm\TRn
Bit Word Bit Word 4
(d)    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(d) Device name      

Function
■Forced transition EXECUTE instruction (SET)
• A specified transition condition in a specified block is forcibly satisfied, and an unconditional transition is executed at the
step which precedes the condition.

• After execution of the instruction, the forced transition status remains effective until a reset instruction is executed.

■Forced transition CANCEL instruction (RST)

• Cancels the forced transition setting (designated by SET instruction) at a transition condition, and restores the transition
condition ladder created by the user.

■Specify the transition condition as described below.

Item Description
In the case of SFC program Use "TRn" when specifying the transition condition in the current block.
Use "BLm \TRn" when specifying the transition condition in another block.
In the case of sequence program Use "BLm \TRn" when executing the forced transition EXECUTE/CANCEL instruction in the sequence program.
When the block number is not specified, specify the block number with the BRSET instruction.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 103
 Operation Error
Error code Description
4631 When the specified transition condition does not exist or the SFC program is in a wait state

Program Examples
• When X1 switches ON, the following program executes a forced transition at transition condition 1 of block 1. The forced
transition setting is canceled when X2 switches ON.
When step is designated by operation output of block 1

When step is designated by operation output of other than block 1 or sequence program

This instruction checks, from the first sequence step of the specified block in series, whether or not the
specified transition condition number is existed.
Because of this, processing time of the instruction differs depending on the program capacity of the specified
block (number of sequence steps), a maximum of hundred and several tens ms may be taken.
In case of occurring WDT error (error code: 5001), change the WDT setting value with the PLC RAS setting in
the PLC parameter.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

104 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
Active step change instruction (SCHG)
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

       

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function Module SFC
U\G
Bit Word Bit Word
(d)     4
Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site
Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(d) BIN16      

Function
• Deactivates the step that executed an instruction, and forcibly activates the specified step (set with the device designated
by (d)) in the same block.
• When the destination step is already active, the step that executed the SCHG instruction is deactivated and the destination
step continues processing as-is.
• The step where this instruction is executed is deactivated when processing proceeds to the transition condition status
check following the completion of that step's program operation.
• This instruction can only be used at SFC program steps.

Operation Error
Error code Description
4631 When the specified destination step does not exist
4001 When this instruction is used at a sequence program other than an SFC program. An error is activated on switching from STOP to RUN.

Program Examples
• When X1 switches ON, the following program deactivates step 5, and activates step 6.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 105
 Block switching instruction (BRSET)
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

  *1     

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 13102 or later.

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Other
(System, User) Function K, H SFC
Module U\G
Bit Word Bit Word
(s)    

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
(s) BIN16      

Function
• Switches the target block number of the SFC control instruction that specifies only a step (Sn) and transition condition
(TRn) to the number set for the device designated by (s).
• Although "BLm\Sn" or "BLm/TRn" may be used as the instruction device when designating the destination block number,
only a constant (K, H) may be designated at the "m" of "BLm", thereby fixing the designation destination. When block
switching is executed by this BRSET instruction, a word device can be used for indirect designation, index modification, etc.
• The effective operation range when block switching occurs (by BRSET instruction) varies according to the program being
run at the time, as shown below.
When this instruction is executed in a sequence program, target block switching is valid from instruction execution to SFC
execution.
At the next scan, the target block is block 0 as the default until the instruction is executed again.
If the BRSET instruction is executed at an SFC program, block switching will be effective only for the step currently being
executed.
Even if the step in question is the same step, the BRSET instruction must be executed at each block where the Sn and TRn
instructions are used.
Moreover, within a single step, block switching will be effective from the point where the BRSET instruction is executed to that
step's processing END point.
When processing is repeated at the next scan following the processing END for that step, the block in question will be
designated as the "current block" until the point when the BRSET instruction is executed again.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

106 4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions)
 4

Operation Error
Error code Description
4621 When the specified block does not exist or when the SFC program is in the stand-by status.

Program Examples
• When X1 switches ON, the following program switches the Sn or TRn block number to the block number stored at the D0
data register.

• When X2 switches ON, the following program switches the Sn or TRn block number according to the constant at the Z1
index register.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.4 Controlling SFC Programs by Instructions (SFC Control Instructions) 107
 4.5 SFC Information Devices
This section describes the SFC information devices set in each block.
The following table lists the SFC information device types and usable devices.

SFC information device list

SFC Function Outline Usable CPU Module Type
information Device Basic High Universal
device model Performance model
QCPU Model QCPU, QCPU,
Process CPU, LCPU
Redundant
CPU,
QnACPU
Block START/END • Device designed to forcibly start or forcibly end the specified block by Y, M, L, F,   
bit a sequence program or the test operation of the peripheral device. V, B
• Can also be used to confirm the active status of the specified block.
Step transition bit • Device that checks whether or not a step transition occurred in the
corresponding scan in the specified block.
Block STOP/ • Device designed to stop temporarily or restart the corresponding
RESTART bit block that is active.
Block STOP mode • Device used to specify whether all steps will be immediately stopped
bit or the block will be stopped after the transition of the corresponding
step when the block is stopped temporarily.
Continuous • Device used to specify whether the operation output of the next step
transition bit will be executed within the same scan or not when the transition
condition is satisfied.
"Number of active • Device that stores the number of steps currently active in the D, W, R,   
steps" register specified block. ZR

: Usable

For settings to use SFC information devices, refer to the manual for the programming tool used.

The following cannot be specified for the SFC information devices.

• Indirect designation (@)
• Digit designation (K)
• Index modification (Z)
• Word device bit designation (.)

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

108 4.5 SFC Information Devices
Block START/END bit
The block START/END bit is used to confirm the active status of the specified block by a sequence program or the test
operation of the peripheral device.
It can also be used as a device to forcibly start or forcibly end the specified block.
• Operation of block START/END bit
The block START/END bit turns ON when the corresponding block starts.
The block START/END bit remains ON while the corresponding block is active.
The block START/END bit turns OFF when the corresponding block becomes inactive.
The block START/END bit remains OFF while the corresponding block is inactive.

• When the corresponding block is inactive, it can be started independently by forcibly turning ON the block START/END bit.
While the corresponding block is active, the processing of the corresponding block can be forcibly ended by forcibly turning
OFF the block START/END bit. The block START/END bit can also be turned ON/OFF in the test mode of the peripheral
device.
• When a forced OFF is executed by the block START/END bit, and the block in question becomes inactive, processing will
occur as follows:
Execution of the block in question will stop together with all outputs from the step which was being executed.
(Devices switched ON by the SET instruction will not switch OFF.)
If another block is being started by the block START step in the corresponding block, the corresponding block stops.
However, the start destination block remains active and continues processing.
To also end the start destination block simultaneously, the block START/END bit of the start destination must also be turned
OFF.
• A block which has been forcibly deactivated is restarted as shown below.
Relevant Block Restart Status
Block 0 When the START condition of block 0 is "Auto START ON" in the Operation is restarted from the initial step following END step
SFC setting of the PLC parameter dialog box. processing.
When the START condition of block 0 is "Auto START OFF" in The block is deactivated after END step processing, and processing is
the SFC setting of the PLC parameter dialog box. restarted from the initial step when another START request occurs for
that block.
Other than block 0

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.5 SFC Information Devices 109
 Program example
Use the contact of the "block START/END bit" when a transition occurs after block 1 ends.

■Related Instructions
SFC control instructions
• Block START instruction (SET BLm), block END instruction (RST BLm): See Page 94 Block START & END instructions
(SET, RST) [BLm].
SFC diagram symbols
• Block START step ( m, m): See Page 57 Block START step (with END check) and Page 58 Block START step
(without END check).

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

110 4.5 SFC Information Devices
Step transition bit
The step transition bit is designed to check whether the transition condition of the step in execution has been satisfied or not.
• After the operation output at each step is completed, the step transition bit automatically switches ON when the transition
condition (for transition to the next step) is satisfied.
• A transition bit which is ON will automatically switch OFF when processing of the block in question occurs again.

Ex.
Step transition bit = M1

• If a continuous transition is designated (continuous transition bit ON), the transition bit will remain ON during the next step's
operation output after the transition condition is satisfied. It will also remain ON following the execution of multiple steps,
even if the transition condition is unsatisfied. In these cases, the transition bit will switch OFF when block execution occurs
at the next scan.

Ex.
Step transition bit = M1

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.5 SFC Information Devices 111
 • At active parallel branch steps, the transition bit will switch ON when any of the transition conditions are satisfied.

Block STOP/RESTART bit

The block STOP/RESTART bit is used to temporarily stop processing while the corresponding block is active.
• When the designated block STOP/RESTART bit is switched ON by the sequence program or peripheral device, processing
will be stopped at the current step of the block in question. If a START status is in effect at another block, the STOP will still
occur, but the START destination block will remain active and processing will continue. To stop the START destination block
at the same time, the START destination's block STOP/RESTART bit must also be switched OFF.
• When a block is stopped by switching the block STOP/RESTART bit ON, the STOP timing will be as shown below.
Setting of Operation Status of Operation
Output Mode Output at STOP-time Active step other than Held step*1
at Block Stop Block Stop Mode Bit held step (including Coil HOLD step Operation HOLD Operation HOLD
in PLC (SM325) HOLD step whose (SC) step (without step (with
Parameter transition condition is transition check) transition check)
not satisfied) (SE) (ST)
Turns OFF OFF OFF or no • Immediately after a STOP • Immediately after • Immediately after a STOP request is
(coil output OFF) (coil output OFF) setting request is made, the coil a STOP request is made, the coil output of the operation
Remains ON (immediate output of the operation made, the coil output is turned OFF and the block is
(coil output held) stop) output is turned OFF and the output of the stopped.
block is stopped. operation output • The status remains active.
• The status remains active. is turned OFF and
ON • Normal operation is the block is
(STOP after performed until the transition stopped.
transition) condition is satisfied. • The status
• When the transition becomes inactive.
condition is satisfied, the
end processing of the
corresponding step is
performed. At the same
time, the transition
destination step becomes
active and the block stops
immediately.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

112 4.5 SFC Information Devices
Setting of Operation Status of Operation
Output Mode Output at STOP-time Active step other than Held step*1
at Block Stop Block Stop Mode Bit held step (including Coil HOLD step Operation HOLD Operation HOLD
in PLC (SM325) HOLD step whose (SC) step (without step (with
Parameter transition condition is transition check) transition check)
not satisfied) (SE) (ST)
Remains ON ON OFF or no • Immediately after a STOP • Immediately after a STOP request is made, the block is stopped
(coil output held) (coil output held) setting request is made, the block is with the coil output of the operation output being held.
(immediate stopped with the coil output • The status remains active.
stop) of the operation output being
held.
• The status remains active.
ON • Normal operation is
(STOP after performed until the transition
transition) condition is satisfied. 4
• When the transition
condition is satisfied, the
end processing of the
corresponding step is
performed. At the same
time, the transition
destination step becomes
active and the block stops
immediately.

*1 The held step indicates the step whose attribute has been set to the HOLD step (SC, SE, ST) and which is being held with the transition
condition satisfied.

The operation of SM325 differs depending on the CPU module.

• For the Basic model QCPU, High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, and QnACPU
SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) at STOP to RUN
of the CPU module.
• For the Universal model QCPU and LCPU
SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) when the CPU
module is powered ON or is reset.
Turning OFF the parameter (coil output OFF): SM325 is OFF.
Remaining ON the parameter (coil output held): SM325 is ON.
Note that the output mode at block stop can be changed regardless of the parameter setting by turning ON/
OFF SM325 in the user program.

• The execution of the corresponding block is restarted from the step where it had stopped when the "block STOP/RESTART
bit" is turned OFF in the sequence program, SFC program or peripheral device. An "operation HOLD status" step (with
transition check or without transition check) which has been stopped will be restarted with the operation HOLD status in
effect. A coil output HOLD step cannot be restarted after being stopped as it is deactivated at that time.
• When a block STOP is canceled, the PLS or P instruction is executed. When the special relay for operation output
selection at block STOP (SM325) is turned ON, the PLS or P instruction is not executed if a block STOP is canceled.
• When the SFC control "block STOP" instruction (PAUSE BLm) is executed, the block in question is stopped, and the block
STOP/RESTART bit switches ON. When the "block RESTART" instruction (RSTART BLm) is executed while the block is
stopped, the block in question is restarted, and the block STOP/RESTART bit switches OFF.

• Stopping of program processing by a block STOP/RESTART bit being switched ON, or by a block STOP
instruction, applies only to the specified block.
• Even if a block stop is executed for the START destination block, the START source block will not be
stopped.
• Even if a block stop is executed for the START source block, the START destination block will not be
stopped.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.5 SFC Information Devices 113
 Related Instructions
SFC information device
• Block STOP mode bit: See Page 115 Block STOP mode bit.
SFC control instructions
• Block STOP instruction (PAUSE BLm) and block RESTART instruction (RSTART BLm): See Page 96 Block STOP and
RESTART instructions (PAUSE, RSTART) [BLm].

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

114 4.5 SFC Information Devices
Block STOP mode bit
The block STOP mode bit setting determines when the specified block is stopped after the block STOP/RESTART bit
switches ON, or after a stop designation by the block STOP instruction (PAUSE BLm).
• The stop timing for a block where a STOP request has occurred varies according to the ON/OFF setting of the block STOP
mode bit, as shown below.
Block STOP mode bit Stop timing
OFF • The block is stopped immediately when the block STOP/RESTART bit switches from OFF to ON, or when
a block STOP instruction is executed.
However, if the block STOP/RESTART bit is switched ON within the current block, the STOP will occur when
that block is processed at the next scan, or when the instruction is executed.
ON • The block is stopped at the step transition which occurs when the transition condition for the current step
(active step) is satisfied.
However, the operation output will not be executed for the step following the transition.
4
• When multiple steps are active in a parallel branch, the STOP will occur sequentially at each of the steps
as their transition conditions are satisfied.
However, the held step stops immediately after a STOP request independently of the block STOP mode.

• When the corresponding block is stopped, the stop timing is as described below.
Setting of Operation Status of Operation
Output Mode Output at STOP-time Active step other than held step Held step*1
at Block Stop Block Mode Bit (including HOLD step whose Coil HOLD step Operation Operation
in PLC Stop transition condition is not (SC) HOLD step HOLD step
Parameter (SM325) satisfied) (without (with transition
transition check) (ST)
check) (SE)
Turns OFF OFF OFF or no • Immediately after a STOP request is • Immediately • Immediately after a STOP request is
(coil output OFF) (coil output setting made, the coil output of the operation after a STOP made, the coil output of the operation
Remains ON OFF) (immediate output is turned OFF and the block is request is made, output is turned OFF and the block is
(coil output held) stop) stopped. the coil output of stopped.
• The status remains active. the operation • The status remains active.
ON • Normal operation is performed until output is turned
(STOP after the transition condition is satisfied. OFF and the
block is stopped.
transition) • When the transition condition is
satisfied, the end processing of the • The status
corresponding step is performed. At becomes
inactive.
the same time, the transition
destination step becomes active and
the block is stopped before execution
of the operation output.
Remains ON ON OFF or no • Immediately after a STOP request is • Immediately after a STOP request is made, the block is
(coil output held) (coil output setting made, the block is stopped with the stopped with the coil output of the operation output being
held) (immediate coil output of the operation output held.
stop) being held. • The status remains active.
• The status remains active.
ON • Normal operation is performed until
(STOP after the transition condition is satisfied.
transition) • When the transition condition is
satisfied, the end processing of the
corresponding step is performed. At
the same time, the transition
destination step becomes active and
the block is stopped before execution
of the operation output.

*1 The held step indicates the step whose attribute has been set to the HOLD step (SC, SE, ST) and which is being held with the transition
condition satisfied.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.5 SFC Information Devices 115
 SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) at STOP to RUN
of the CPU module.
Turning OFF the output mode setting at block stop (coil output OFF): SM325 is OFF.
Remaining ON the output mode setting at block stop (coil output held): SM325 is ON.
Note that the output mode at block stop can be changed regardless of the parameter setting by turning ON/
OFF SM325 in the user program.

Related Instructions
SFC information device
• Block STOP/RESTART bit: See Page 112 Block STOP/RESTART bit.
SFC control instruction
• Block STOP instruction (PAUSE BLm): See Page 96 Block STOP and RESTART instructions (PAUSE, RSTART) [BLm].

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

116 4.5 SFC Information Devices
Continuous transition bit
The continuous transition bit specifies whether the operation output of the next step will be executed in the same scan or not
when the transition condition is satisfied.
• There are two types of SFC program transition processing: "with continuous transition" and "without continuous transition".
The user specifies either of them by turning ON/OFF the continuous transition bit.
Processing Description
Continuous transition ON When the transition conditions at contiguous steps are satisfied, all the steps transition conditions will be executed at
(Continuous transition bit: ON) once within a single scan.
Continuous transition OFF Steps are executed in a 1-step-per-scan format.
(Continuous transition bit: OFF)

Ex. 4
Sample program processing
• Continuous transition ON
When the corresponding block becomes active, the processings of all steps are executed in the same scan, and end step
processing is performed to deactivate the block.
• Continuous transition OFF
When the corresponding block becomes active, steps are executed in a 1-step-per-scan format, and end step processing is
performed in the third scan to deactivate the block.

• A continuous transition can be designated for individual blocks by the continuous transition bit ON/OFF setting, or for all
blocks using the batch setting special relay. As indicated below, whether a continuous transition is executed or not changes
depending on the combination of the continuous transition bit and the special relay that sets "whether continuous transition
of all blocks is executed or not" (SM323).
SM323 status Continuous Transition Bit Status SFC Program Operation
ON Continuous transition bit OFF Operation occurs without continuous transition
No continuous transition bit setting Operation occurs with continuous transition
Continuous transition bit ON
OFF Continuous transition bit OFF Operation occurs without continuous transition
No continuous transition bit setting
Continuous transition bit ON Operation occurs with continuous transition

The tact time can be shortened by setting "with continuous transition".

This resolves the problem of waiting time from when the transition condition is satisfied until the operation
output of the transition destination step is executed.
However, when "with continuous transition" is set, the operations of the other blocks and sequence program
may become slower.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.5 SFC Information Devices 117
 • The continuous transition disable flag (SM324) is always ON (turned ON automatically by the system at SFC program
execution) normally, but is OFF during continuous transition. Use of SM324 under the AND condition in a transition
condition disables a continuous transition.

Ex.
[SFC program]

[Operation]

1. When M0 is ON, step 1 to step 4 are the targets of continuous transition.

2. Since SM324 is added as the AND condition to the transition condition following step 3, the transition condition following
step 3 is not satisfied after execution of step 3.

3. When step 3 is executed in the next scan, execution proceeds to step 4 in the same scan since SM324 is ON.

• When a jump transition or selection coupling causes a transition from multiple steps to one step, the
operation output of one step may be executed twice in a single scan. When the setting is "with continuous
transition" in the case as shown above, execution passes through step 3 twice in a single scan.

• In the case of "with continuous transition", a step start/end is made within one scan. Since the END
processing is not executed in this case, the coil output turned on by the OUT instruction in the operation
output is not reflected on the device. When the coil output is the Y output, actual output is not provided. In
addition, ON of the step relay cannot be detected.
• In the case of a program that uses a jump transition for looping, care must be taken when the transition
conditions in the loop are all satisfied during execution at the "with continuous transition" setting, since an
endless loop will occur within one scan, resulting in WDT Err. (No. 5001).

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

118 4.5 SFC Information Devices
Number of active steps register
The "number of active steps" value for a given block is stored at this register.
• The "number of active steps" value for a given block is stored.

• The number of active steps applies to the following steps.

• Normal active steps
• Coil HOLD steps
• Operation HOLD steps (without transition check)
• Operation HOLD steps (with transition check)
• Stopping steps
• Step double START waiting steps 4

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.5 SFC Information Devices 119
 4.6 Step Transition Watchdog Timer
The step transition watch dog timers are timers that measure the time from the point when the relevant step is placed in the
execution status until the point when a transition to the next step occurs.
If a transition from the relevant step to the next step fails to occur within the designated time period, the preset annunciator (F)
will be turned ON.
• When using the step transition watchdog timer, set the "set time" and the "device number of annunciator (F) that will turn
ON at time-out" to the special register for step transition watchdog timer setting (SD90 to SD99). The step transition
watchdog timer starts timing when the special relay for step transition watchdog timer start (SM90 to SM99) is turned ON in
the operation output of the step that performs a time check. When any corresponding one of SM90 to SM99 is turned OFF
during timing, the step transition watchdog timer stops timing and is reset.
• There are 10 step transition watchdog timers, watchdog timer 1 to watchdog timer 10, in the whole SFC program. The
special relay for step transition watchdog timer start and the special register for step transition watchdog timer setting are
assigned to each watchdog timer as indicated below.
Watchdog Watchdog Watchdog Watchdog Watchdog Watchdog Watchdog Watchdog Watchdog Watchdog
Timer 1 Timer 2 Timer 3 Timer 4 Timer 5 Timer 6 Timer 7 Timer 8 Timer 9 Timer 10
Special SM90 SM91 SM92 SM93 SM94 SM95 SM96 SM97 SM98 SM99
relay
Special SD90 SD91 SD92 SD93 SD94 SD95 SD96 SD97 SD98 SD99
register

• The method of setting to SD90 - SD99 is as shown below.

to to

• When the parameter where the "High speed interrupt I49 fixed scan interval" has been set is written to the
High Performance model QCPU whose first five digits of serial No. are "04012" or later, the step transition
watchdog timers cannot be used. No processing is performed if the step transition watchdog timers are
executed.
• The step transition watchdog timers are not available for the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU,
and LCPU.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

120 4.6 Step Transition Watchdog Timer
• The method for using a step transition watch dog timer is shown below.

When SM90 is turned ON in the operation output of the step that performs a time check as shown below, the step transition
watchdog timer starts timing.
If transition condition a is not satisfied within the set time (10s) after SM90 has turned ON, annunciator F1 turns ON.
(However, the SFC program continues operation.)
When transition condition a is satisfied within the set time and SM90 turns OFF, the step transition watchdog timer stops 4
timing and is reset.
• If the annunciators (F0 to F255) turn ON, the number of detected annunciators that turned ON and the annunciator
numbers are not stored into SD62, SD63 and SD64 - SD79.
• The step transition watchdog timers of the same number can be used at different steps if they do not become active
simultaneously.

Ex.
As there is no chance that steps 5 and 6 will be concurrently active, the same watch dog timer can be used at both steps.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.6 Step Transition Watchdog Timer 121
 4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting
The SFC operation mode setting is used to designate SFC program START conditions, or to designate the processing
method at a double START.
Some settings can be made in "SFC setting of PLC parameter dialog box" in the system common setting and the others can
be made in "block parameter" of the SFC program.
The SFC operation mode setting items and the resulting operations are shown below.
Item Description Setting Range Default Value Basic Model High Universal
QCPU Performance model
Model QCPU, QCPU, LCPU
Process CPU,
Redundant
CPU, QnACPU
SFC program start Designates an "Initial Initial start/Resume start Initial start   
mode start" or "Resume start"
when the SFC program
is started.
Start conditions Designates whether Autostart block 0/ Autostart block 0   
block 0 is to be started Do not autostart block 0
automatically.
Output mode when the Designates the coil Turn OFF/Keep ON OFF   
block is stopped output mode at a block
STOP.
Periodic execution Designates the first 0 to 319 No setting   
block setting block No. of the periodic
execution blocks.
Designates the time 1 to 65535 ms
interval for execution of
the periodic execution
blocks.
Act at block multi- Designates the Stop blocks Waiting blocks   *1
activated operation which occurs (A block range can be (Wait only)
when a START request designated for the stop
is made for a block blocks setting.)
which is already active.
Act at step multi- Designates the Waiting blocks/stop Transfer   
activated operation which occurs blocks (Transfer only) (Transfer only)
when a transition (A step range can be
(follow-up) is executed designated for the stop
to a step which is blocks or "Waiting blocks"
already active, or when setting.)
an active step is started.

: Can be set, : Cannot be set.

*1 For the following CPU modules, this item cannot be set. For these models, this operation is performed only in the "WAIT" mode.
 Universal model QCPU (Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, and Q02UCPU)
 Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12051" or earlier
 L02(S)CPU and L02(S)CPU-P
LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15101" or earlier

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

122 4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting
SFC program start mode
The SFC program start mode setting determines whether an SFC program START (SM321 OFF  ON) is executed by an
"Initial start", or by a Resume start from the preceding execution status.

Settings and corresponding operations

Set whether "initial start" or "resume start" will be selected for the SFC program.

■Initial start
The program is started after the active status at a previous stop is cleared.
The operation after a start is performed according to the setting of block 0 START condition.

■Resume start 4
The program is started with the active status at a previous stop (ON to OFF of SM321 or RUN to STOP of CPU module) held.

The SFC program start mode changes depending on the combination of the setting of the "SFC program start mode" in the
PLC parameter dialog box and the ON/OFF status of the "special relay for setting SFC program start status (SM322)" as
indicated below.
SFC Program Start Mode Operation Initial Start Resume Start
Start Mode SM322: OFF SM322: ON SM322: ON SM322: OFF
Operation (Initial status)*1 (When changed by (Initial status)*1 (When changed
user) by user)
SM321: Turned ON Initial Initial Resume Initial
Programmable controller: Powered ON Resume/Initial*3 Initial
Programmable controller: Powered OFF and then ON Resume*2 Initial
after SM321 is switched from ON to OFF or the CPU
module is switched from RUN to STOP
CPU module: Reset and RUN Resume/Initial*6 Initial
CPU module: Reset and RUN after SM321 is switched Resume*2 Initial
from ON to OFF or the CPU module is switched from
RUN to STOP
STOPRUN Resume*7
CPU module: STOP, write a program, and then RUN Initial*4*5

Initial: Initial start, Resume: Resume start

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting 123
 *1 SM322 is turned ON/OFF by the system according to the setting of the "SFC program start mode" in the PLC parameter dialog box
when the CPU module switches from STOP to RUN.
 At initial start setting: OFF
 At resume start setting: ON
*2 Operation at resume start
At a resume start, the SFC program stop position is held but the status of each device used for the operation output is not held.
Therefore, make latch setting for the devices whose statuses must be held in making a resume start.
The held coil HOLD step SC becomes inactive, and is not kept held. In the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU, the
held coil HOLD step SC restarts in the held status under conditions other than those that turns OFF the coil HOLD step, such as turning
ON and OFF of SM321 or operating status change (RUN to STOP) of the CPU module.
*3 Depending on the timing, a resume start is disabled and an initial start may be made.
To perform a resume start, turn ON and then OFF SM321 or switch the CPU module from RUN to STOP, and power OFF and then ON
the programmable controller.
Note that the Basic model QCPU and the Universal model QCPU with serial number "11042" (first five digits) or earlier always perform
an initial start.
*4 A resume start may be made depending on the SFC program change.
If a resume start is made as-is, a start is made from the old step number, leading to a malfunction of the mechanical system.
When any SFC program change (SFC diagram correction such as step addition and deletion) has been made, make an initial start once
and then return it to a resume start.
An initial start is always performed in the Basic model QCPU and the Universal model QCPU with serial number (first five digits) "11042"
or earlier.
*5 In the Universal model QCPU and LCPU, a resume start is performed if data other than SFC programs are changed.
*6 The Basic model QCPU and Universal model QCPU of which the first 5 digits of the serial number are "11042" always makes an initial
start.
*7 The status (ON/OFF) of the output is determined according to the "Output Mode at STOP to RUN" setting in PLC parameter.

• When the programmable controller is powered OFF or the CPU module is reset, the intelligent function
modules and special function modules are initialized. When making a resume start, create an initial program
for the intelligent function module/special function module in the block that is always active or in the
sequence program.
• When the programmable controller is powered OFF or the CPU module is reset, values in the devices
without a latch setting are cleared. To hold the values in the SFC information devices, set a latch range.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

124 4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting
Block 0 START condition
The block 0 START condition is designed to set whether block 0 will be automatically activated or not at SFC program START
(when SM321 turns from OFF to ON).

Use the block 0 START condition when it is desired to specify the START block at SFC program START according to the
product type, etc.
"Auto START ON" is useful when block 0 is used as described below.
• Used as a control block
• Used as a preprocessing block
• Used as an always watched block
4
Settings and corresponding operations
Set block 0 to "Auto START ON" or "Auto START OFF".
At SFC program START and END step execution, operations are performed as described below.
Setting Operation
At SFC Program START At end step execution in block 0
Autostart block 0 Block 0 is automatically activated, and is executed from its When the end step is reached, the initial step is
(default) initial step. automatically activated again.
Do not autostart block 0 Block 0 is activated by a START request resulting from an When the end step is reached, block 0 is deactivated and
SFC control "block START" instruction or a block START waits for another START request to be issued again.
step, in the same manner as other blocks.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting 125
 Output mode at block STOP
The "output mode at block STOP" is designed to set whether the coil outputs turned ON by the OUT instruction will be held at
the time of a stop (coil output held) or all coil outputs will be forcibly turned OFF (coil output OFF) when the corresponding
block is stopped temporarily.
Stop the corresponding block temporarily using the "stop RESTART bit" of the SFC information devices or the "block STOP
instruction (PAUSE BLm)" of the SFC control instructions.

Settings and corresponding operations

Set the output mode at block STOP in the "output mode at block STOP in PLC parameter dialog box" or the "special register
for setting operation output at block STOP (SM325)".
The operation of the SFC program changes depending on the combination of the "output mode at block STOP in PLC
parameter dialog box" setting and the SM325 setting.
Setting of Operation Status of Operation
Output Mode Output at STOP-time Active step other than Held step*1
at Block Stop Block Stop Mode Bit held step (including Coil HOLD step Operation HOLD Operation HOLD
in PLC (SM325) HOLD step (SC, SE, ST) (SC) step (without step (with
Parameter whose transition transition check) transition check)
condition is not (SE) (ST)
satisfied)
Turns OFF OFF OFF or no • Immediately after a STOP • Immediately after • Immediately after a STOP request is
(coil output OFF) (coil output OFF) setting request is made, the coil a STOP request is made, the coil output of the operation
Remains ON (immediate output of the operation made, the coil output is turned OFF and the block is
(coil output held) stop) output is turned OFF and the output of the stopped.
block is stopped. operation output • The status remains active.
• The status remains active. is turned OFF and
ON • Normal operation is the block is
(STOP after performed until the transition stopped.
transition) condition is satisfied. • The status
• When the transition becomes inactive.
condition is satisfied, the
end processing of the
corresponding step is
performed. At the same
time, the transition
destination step becomes
active and the block stops
immediately.
Remains ON ON OFF or no • Immediately after a STOP • Immediately after a STOP request is made, the block is stopped
(coil output held) (coil output held) setting request is made, the block is with the coil output of the operation output being held.
(immediate stopped with the coil output • The status remains active.
stop) of the operation output being
held.
• The status remains active.
ON • Normal operation is
(STOP after performed until the transition
transition) condition is satisfied.
• When the transition
condition is satisfied, the
end processing of the
corresponding step is
performed. At the same
time, the transition
destination step becomes
active and the block stops
immediately.

*1 The held step indicates the step whose attribute has been set to the HOLD step (SC, SE, ST) and which is being held with the transition
condition satisfied.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

126 4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting
■Output mode at block STOP in PLC parameter dialog box
Set the status of the output mode at block STOP when the programmable controller is powered ON or the CPU module is
reset.

■SM325
The operation of SM325 differs depending on the CPU module.
• For the Basic model QCPU, High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, and QnACPU
SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) at STOP to RUN of the CPU
module.
• For the Universal model QCPU and LCPU
SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) when the CPU module is
powered ON or is reset.
Parameter setting SM325
4
Turns OFF (coil output OFF) OFF

Remain ON (coil output held) ON

The output mode at block stop can be changed by turning ON/OFF SM325 during the operation of the SFC program.
(During the operation of the SFC program, the parameter setting is ignored.)

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting 127
 Periodic execution block setting
The periodic execution block setting designates the execution of a given block at specified time intervals rather than at each
scan.

Setting items
Designate the first block number and the time of execution for the periodic execution blocks.
When these settings are designated, the "first block" and all subsequent blocks will become periodic execution blocks.
The execution time interval setting can be designated in 1 ms units within a 1 to 65535 ms range.

Periodic execution block operation method

Periodic execution block operation occurs as shown below.

• Until the specified time interval elapses, only the sequence programs and blocks designated for execution at each scan will
be executed.
• When the specified time interval elapses, the periodic execution blocks will be executed following execution of blocks
designated for execution at each scan. If the specified time interval is shorter than the scan time, the periodic execution
blocks will be executed at each scan in the same manner as the other blocks.
• The specified time interval countdown is executed in a continuous manner.

• When the parameter where the "High speed interrupt I49 fixed scan interval" has been set is written to the
High Performance model QCPU whose first five digits of serial No. are "04012" or later, the fixed-cycle
execution block setting cannot be used. If the fixed-cycle execution block setting is made, no processing is
performed and the block remains unchanged from the every scan execution block.
• To execute the periodic execution block, the block to be executed periodically must be activated.
• The fixed-cycle execution block setting is not available for the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU,
and LCPU.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

128 4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting
Operation mode at double block START
This mode setting designates the operation mode which is to be effective when a block START request occurs (by block
START step ( m, m)) for a block which is already started.

Settings and corresponding operations

Set the operation mode at block double START to either STOP or WAIT in the "block parameter" of the SFC setting dialog box
in the Tools menu.
The operations resulting from these settings are shown below.
Setting Operation Remarks
STOP • A CPU module operation error (BLOCK EXE.ERROR) occurs, and CPU module operation A block range can be designated for the
is stopped.
• All "Y" outputs switch OFF.
STOP setting. 4
WAIT • CPU module operation continues, and a WAIT status is established when the transition
(default) condition is satisfied. The WAIT status continues until the START destination block is
deactivated.
• A step transition occurs when the START destination block is deactivated, and that block is
then reactivated.
• If a transition WAIT occurs, the previous step is deactivated, the output is switched OFF,
and the operation output will not be executed.

• When a START request is issued to the block that is already active by execution of the following, the START
request is ignored and the processing of the SFC program is continued as is.
Block START instruction (SET BLm) of SFC control instructions
ON of Block START/END bit of SFC information devices
• For the following CPU modules, the operation mode at double block START cannot be set. The operation
mode at double block START is limited to the "WAIT" mode.
Basic model QCPU
Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCP
Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "12051" or earlier
L02(S)CPU, L02(S)CPU-P
LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15101" or earlier
• When changing a setting for the operation mode at double block START, write both SFC programs and
parameters to PLC. If both SFC programs and parameters are not written, the changed setting content may
not be reflected.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting 129
 Operation mode at transition to active step (double step START)
This mode setting designates the operation mode which is to be effective when a follow-up function such as an operation
HOLD step (with transition check) is used to execute a transition to a step which is already active.

Settings and corresponding operations

For a transition to an active step, set any of STOP, WAIT and TRANSFER in the "block parameter" of the FC setting dialog
box in the Tools menu.
The operations resulting from these settings are shown below.
Setting Operation Remarks
STOP • A CPU module operation error (BLOCK EXE.ERROR) occurs, and CPU module A step range can be designated for the
operation is stopped. STOP setting.
• All "Y" outputs switch OFF.
WAIT • CPU module operation continues, and a WAIT status is established when the A step range can be designated for the
transition condition is satisfied. The WAIT status continues until the START WAIT setting.
destination step is deactivated.
• If a transition WAIT occurs, the previous step is deactivated, the output is switched
OFF, and the operation output will not be executed.
TRANSFER • CPU module operation continues, the transition occurs, and the previous step is
(default) deactivated and absorbed by the transition destination step.

Transition to HOLD step by double START

The following table shows the transition procedure for transitions to coil HOLD steps, operation HOLD steps (with transition
check), and operation HOLD steps (without transition check) which occur when the double START condition is satisfied.
These transitions occur without regard to the settings described at item (1) above.
Setting Operation Remarks
STOP • The TRANSFER setting applies to all operations, regardless of the setting. Following the double START, execution of
WAIT • At coil HOLD steps all subsequent steps where transition
TRANSFER (default) The operation output is restarted, and a transition condition check begins. conditions are satisfied will occur according
The PLS instruction for which the input conditions have already been established is to the step attributes.
non-executable until the input conditions are turned on again.
• At operation HOLD steps (without transition check)
A transition condition check begins.
• At operation HOLD steps (with transition check)
Operation continues as is.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

130 4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting
Operation at double START
■When transition destination is serial transition
• When setting is "STOP": If the transition destination is active, an error occurs and the processing of the CPU module stops.

• When setting is "WAIT": Execution waits until the transition destination step becomes inactive. When the transition
destination step becomes inactive, a transition is executed and the transition destination step becomes active. In a WAIT
status, the previous step is deactivated. 4

• When setting is "TRANSFER": A transition is executed and the previous step becomes inactive.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting 131
 ■When transition destination is parallel branch
• When setting is "STOP": If any one of the transition destinations of the parallel branch is active, an error occurs and the
processing of the CPU module stops.

• When setting is "WAIT": Execution waits until all the transition destination steps of the parallel branch become inactive.
When the transition destination steps all become inactive, a transition is executed and all the first steps of the parallel
branch become active. In a WAIT status, the previous step is deactivated.

• When setting is "TRANSFER": When any one of the transition destination steps of the parallel branch is active, a transition
is executed and the previous step becomes inactive.

• When the transition destination steps are all inactive, normal transition processing is performed and all the
transition destination steps become active.
• The operation mode for transition to active step (at step double START) applies to a transition to be
executed when a transition condition is satisfied or to a forced transition set using the transition control
instruction (SET TRn) of the SFC control instructions. When the step control instruction (SET Sn) of the
SFC control instructions is used to issue a START request to the step that is already active, the request is
ignored and the processing continues.
• For the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU, setting of the transition to active step (at
step double START) is not allowed. The transition to active step (at step double start) is fixed to "Transition"
or them.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

132 4.7 SFC Operation Mode Setting
4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction
SFC comment readout instruction can read comments of steps being activated in the specified blocks or those of the
transition condition associated with active steps.
The instructions to read SFC comment are listed below.
Name Ladder Expression Function
Instruction to read SFC step comment S.SFCSCOMR Reads comment of an active step in the specified block.
SP.SFCSCOMR
Instruction to read comment of SFC S.SFCTCOMR Reads comment of transition condition associated with an active step in the specified block.
transition condition SP.SFCTCOMR

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction 133
 SFC comment readout instruction (S(P). SFCSCOMR)
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

 *1 *3 *2 *2 *4  

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 07012 or later.

*2 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 07032 or later.
*3 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 12052 or later except for the Q00U(J)/Q01U/Q02UCPU.
*4 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 15102 or later except for the L02(S)CPU(-P).

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Others
(System, User) Function K, H SFC
Module BLm\Sn
U\G
Bit Word Bit Word Bit Word
n1       
(d1)  *6     
n2       
n3       
*6 *5
(d2)       

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
n1 BIN16      
(d1)
n2
n3
(d2) Bit

*5 This item cannot be set when "Use the same file name as the program" has been selected in "File Register" in the PLC File tab of the
PLC parameter dialog box.
*6 Local device cannot be used.

Set Data
Set Data Meaning Range
n1 Indicates block No. of an SFC program that read comments or device number where block No. is stored. 0 to 319
(d1) Indicates the first number of device that stores comment read.*3 
n2 Indicates the device number where the number of comments to read or the number of comments is stored. 0 to 256*1
n3 Indicates the number of comments to read in a single scan or device number where the number of comments is 0 to 256*2
stored.
(d2) Indicates a device that turns ON for 1 scan at completion of the instruction. 

*1 when specifying 0, it is processed as 256.

*2 when specifying 0, it is processed as 1.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

134 4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction
*3 Comments to be read are stored as follows.

Area name Data to be stored

Total number of steps • 0000H is stored at S(P). SFCSCOMR instruction, and the total number of steps are stored at completion of
comment readout.
Number of steps that have read • 0000H is stored at S(P). SFCSCOMR instruction, and the total number of steps that have actually read
comments (N) comments are stored.
Step No. • Active step No. that has read comment is stored.
Comment • Comments that have been read are stored.
• Comment area is fixed by a maximum of 32 characters.
• In case the word length to be set for 1 comment*4 at the comment range setting is set by 32 or less, 0000H is
stored to the area after the number of characters for 1 comment.
End of comment • 0000H is stored.
Empty • Not used area (0000H is stored.)

*4 The number of characters for each comment in the comment range setting is set in the programming tool.
For details, refer to the manual for the programming tool.

With S(P) .SFCSCOMR instruction, the points calculated by the following formula are occupied from the device No. specified
at (d1).
(Points to be used for storing a comment) = 2 + 20  (number of comment to read (n2))
For (d1), make sure to set device No. that can store the above points successively.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction 135
 Functions
• This function reads step comments being activated in the SFC block specified at n1, by the number of comment specified at
n2, and stores those to the device number of after specified at (d1).

Processing
for material B

• Executing S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction, SM735 of the special relay (SFC comment readout instruction executing flag)
turns ON. Confirms whether or not S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is executed by SM735.
• In case comments are not set into active steps, "2DH()" is stored to the comment area (word length of 32 characters).
• Read comments are stored in ascending order of the step No.
• Comments are read from the comment file specified when S(P). SFCSCOMR instruction is executed.
• Comments to be read with S(P). SFCSCOMR instruction are those of steps*1 being activated when executing
S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction.
*1 As steps retaining coil outputs are not active steps, reading comments is not enabled.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

136 4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction
• Reading comment is performed at END processing for a scan that has executed S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction. With per
END processing, this function reads the number of comments specified at the number of comments in a single 1 scan (n3).
Comments that are not read in per END processing are followed to the next scan. Reading comments for active steps
(maximum: the number specified at n2) is completed, the device specified at (d2) turns ON for 1 scan.

For the Universal model QCPU and LCPU, when the standard ROM is selected in corresponding memory in
"Comment File Used in a Command" in the PLC File tab of the PLC parameter dialog box, the number of
comments read at END processing is determined by the system.

• The operation when a command of S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is in ON status at S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction execution
completed is as follows.
S.SFCSCOMR instruction re-executes when a command for S.SFCSCOMR instruction is in ON status.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction 137
 Even if a command for SP.SFCSCOMR instruction turns ON, SP.SFCSCOMR instruction is not executed.

• For the comment files to be used with S(P).SFCSCOMR, set them in the PLC File tab of the PLC parameter dialog box or
at "file set instruction (QCDSET(P)) for comments". Executing S(P). SFCSCOMR without setting the comment file to use, 0
is stored to "the total number of steps ((d1) +0)" and "the number of steps that have read comments ((d1) +1)" At this time,
the device specified in (d2) turns ON for 1 scan. When the comment file setting is configured in the PLC File tab of the PLC
parameter dialog box but the file does not exist at power-on or reset, "FILE SET ERROR" (error code: 2400) will occur.
• The following table lists the availability of reading comments stored in the memories by the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction.
 Readable,  Not readable
Memory type Availability of reading comments
SRAM card (drive 1) 
Flash card (drive 2) 
Standard ROM (drive 4) 
ATA card *2
SD memory card *2

*2 If the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is executed to the ATA card or SD memory card where the comments are stored, an operation error
(error code: 4130) occurs.
• While SFC program is not executed, reading comments is not performed even if executing S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction.
Executing S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction at a status without SFC program being executed, 0 is stored to "the total number of
steps ((d1) +0)" and "the number of steps that have read comments ((d1) +1)". At this time, the device specified in (d2)
turns ON for 1 scan.
• With S(P). SFCSCOMR instruction, comments for the normal SFC program can be read. Comments of a SFC program to
control program execution are not read. Executing S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction specifying a SFC program for program
execution control, 0 is stored to "the total number of transit conditions ((d1) +0)" and "the number of steps that have read
comments ((d1) +1)". At this time, the device specified in (d2) turns ON for 1 scan.
• S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction cannot be executed simultaneously with S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction or S(P).SFCTCOMR
instruction. Executing S(P).SFCSOMR, and if S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction or S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is executed
before reading comments completed, the 2nd instruction will be de-activated.
• When the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is attempted to be executed while SM721 is on, the instruction will not be executed.
However, when the execution condition is met, the instruction will be executed in the next scan. SM721 turns on in the
following operations:
Function
The S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction or the S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is executed.
The COMRD(P), S(P).FWRITE, S(P).FREAD, or SP.DEVST instruction is executed.
A file in the ATA card, SD memory card, or standard ROM is accessed by the read from PLC or write to PLC function, or by other file access operations.*3

*3 Effective only with the Universal model QCPU and LCPU.

• For the Universal model QCPU and LCPU, when the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is attempted to be executed while online
change (inactive block) is executed to the SFC block of comment read target, the instruction will not be executed. However,
when the execution condition is met, the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction will be executed in the next scan.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

138 4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction
Precautions
• Make sure to use comments to be read with S(P).SFCSCOMR after the device specified at (d2) turns ON. Comments to be
read before the device specified at (d2) turns ON become an indefinite value.
• If the number of steps is larger than that of comments (n3) read in a single scan, the active step comments are divided into
the number to be read in a single scan. Counting the total number of steps is also performed with the same comment
number (n3) for 1 scan. In case transition conditions are remained without being counted when reading comments
completed, the counting will be continued for the remained. Because of this, the number of scans calculated in the following
formula is required. (Comments to be actually stored are the same points stored in ((d1)+1)

*: It becomes a round-up below the decimal point. 4

• Execute "batch write of SFC program in RUN status", "online change (inactive block)", or "write of comment file in RUN
status" while the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is not executed. Also, execute the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction while these
operations are not executed.

Operation Errors
Error code Description
2410 When a comment file specified at execution of S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction does not existed
4100 • When SFC block No. specified at n1 is other than 0 to 319
• When the number of readout comment specified at n2 is other than 0 to 256
• When the number of readout comments in a single scan specified at n3 is other than 0 to 256
4101 When the number of readout comments specified at n2 exceeds the device range of D1
4130 When the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is executed to the comment file in the ATA card or SD memory card

Program Example
• This program reads 2 comments being activated at the SFC block No.1 when X1 is turned ON, and stores those to the
storage device after D0. (The number of comment to be read in a single scan is also set in 2.) An interlock ladder to execute
"batch write of SFC program in RUN status", "online change (inactive block)", and "write of comment file in RUN status" is
included in the following program.

• Procedure for "batch writes of SFC program in RUN status", "online change (inactive block)", or "write of comment file in
RUN status"
1. Turns ON the X0 (write execution command in RUN status).

2. M0 (write enable flag in RUN status) is turned ON when SP.SFCSCOMR instruction is deactivated.

3. Turns OFF the X0 (write execution command in RUN status).

4. Performs "batch write of SFC program in RUN status", "online change (inactive block)", or "write of comment file in RUN
status".

5. Turns OFF the M0 (write enable flag in RUN status) in the device test of the programming tool.

6. SP.SFCTCOMR instruction is executed again when M0 (write enable flag in RUN status) is turned OFF.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction 139
 SFC transition comment readout instruction (S(P). SFCTCOMR)
QCPU LCPU QnA Q4AR
Programmable controller CPU Process CPU Redundant
Basic High Performance Universal CPU

 *1 *3 *2 *2 *4  

*1 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 07012 or later.

*2 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 07032 or later.
*3 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 12052 or later except for the Q00U(J)/Q01U/Q02UCPU.
*4 The serial number (first five digits) shall be 15102 or later except for the L02(S)CPU(-P).

Usable Devices
Internal device File Register R Link Direct J\ Intelligent Index Z Constant Expansion Others
(System, User) Function K, H SFC
Module BLm\Sn
U\G
Bit Word Bit Word Bit Word
n1       
(d1)  *6     
n2       
n3       
*6 *5
(d2)       

Data Type Programs Using Instructions Execution Site

Sequence SFC Program Block Step Transition
Program Step Transition Condition
Condition
n1 BIN16      
(d1)
n2
n3
(d2) Bit

*5 This item cannot be set when "Use the same file name as the program" has been selected in "File Register" in the PLC File tab of the
PLC parameter dialog box.
*6 Local device cannot be used.

Set Data
Set Data Meaning Range
n1 Indicates block No. of an SFC program that read comments or device number where block No. is stored. 0 to 319
(d1) Indicates the first number of device that stores comment read.*3 
n2 Indicates the device number where the number of comments to read or the number of comments is stored. 0 to 256*1
n3 Indicates the number of comments to read in a single scan or device number where the number of comments is 0 to 256*2
stored.
(d2) Indicates a device that turns ON for 1 scan at completion of the instruction. 

*1 when specifying 0, it is processed as 256.

*2 when specifying 0, it is processed as 1.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

140 4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction
*3 Comments to be read are stored as follows.

Area name Data to be stored

Total number of transition conditions • 0000H is stored at S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction, and the total number of transition conditions associated with the
steps activated when reading comments completed are stored. (Maximum of up to 256 detected)
Number of transition conditions that have • 0000H is stored at S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction, and the total number of transition condition associated with the
read comments (N) active steps that have actually when reading comments completed are stored.
Step No. • Transition condition step No. that has read comment is stored.
Transition condition No. • Transition condition No. that has read comment is stored.
Comment • Comments that have been read are stored.
• Comment area is fixed by a maximum of 32 characters.
•  In case the word length to be set for 1 comment*4 at the comment range setting is set by 32 or less, 0000H is
stored to the area after the number of characters for 1 comment.
End of comment • 0000H is stored.
Empty • Not used area (0000H is stored.)

*4 The number of characters for each comment in the comment range setting is set in the programming tool.
For details, refer to the manual for the programming tool.

With S(P) .SFCTCOMR instruction, the points calculated by the following formula are occupied from the device No. specified
at (d1).
(Points to be used for storing a comment) = 2 + 20  (number of comment to read (n2))
For (d1), make sure to set device No. that can store the above points successively.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction 141
 Functions
• This function reads comments of the transition condition*1 associated with steps activated in the SFC block specified at n1
with the number of comments specified at n2, and stores those to the device number of after specified at (d1).

*1 Transition condition associated with active steps is shown below.

• Serial transition is a transition condition for right under a step.
• Selection branching is a transition condition for all branches. Comment of transition condition is read from left to right in the
SFC diagram.
• Parallel coupling is a transition condition for after parallel coupling. Comments are read only when steps with parallel-
coupled are all activated Step No. described at the most right edge is stored for transit condition to be read.
Serial transition Selection branching Parallel coupling

: Indicates a transition condition associated with to steps.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

142 4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction
• Executing S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction, SM735 of the special relay (SFC comment readout instruction executing flag)
turns ON. Confirms whether or not S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is executed by SM735.
• In case comments are not set into active steps, "2DH()" is stored to the comment area (word length of 32 characters).
• Read comments are stored in ascending order of the step No.
• Comments are read from the comment file specified when S(P).SFCTCOMR is executed.
• Comments to read with S(P).SFCTCOMR, comments of transition condition associated with active steps of *2 with when
S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is executed. Because of this, step comments to be activated after S(P).SFCTCOMR
execution can not be read.
*2 As coil retention step at a status of retaining coil output or operation retention step retaining operation condition (without transition
check) is not active step, a comment cannot be read.
• Reading comment is performed at END processing for a scan that has executed S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction. The number
of comments specified at n3 is read per END processing. Comments that are not read per END processing are followed to
the next END processing. Reading comments for transition conditions (maximum: the number specified at n2) associated 4
with active steps is completed, the device specified at (d2) turns ON for 1 scan.

For the Universal model QCPU, when the standard ROM is selected in "Corresponding Memory" in
"Comment File Used in a Command" in the PLC File tab of the PLC parameter dialog box, the number of
comments read at END processing is determined by the system.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction 143
 • The operation when a command of S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is in ON status at S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction execution
completed is as follows.
S.SFCTCOMR instruction re-executes when a command for S.SFCTCOMR instruction is in ON status.

Even if a command for SP.SFCTCOMR instruction turns ON, SP.SFCTCOMR instruction is not executed.

• For the comment files to be used with S(P).SFCTCOMR, set them in the PLC File tab of the PLC parameter dialog box or
at "file set instruction (QCDSET(P)) for comments". Executing S(P).SFCTCOMR without setting of comment file to use, 0 is
stored to "the total number of transition conditions ((d1) +0)" and "the number of transit condition that have read
comments((d1) +1)". At this time, the device specified in (d2) turns ON for 1 scan. When the comment file setting is
configured in the PLC File tab of the PLC parameter dialog box but the file does not exist at power-on or reset, "FILE SET
ERROR" (error code: 2400) will occur.
• The following table lists the availability of reading comments stored in the memories by the S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction.
 Readable,  Not readable
Memory type Availability of reading comments
SRAM card (drive 1) 
Flash card (drive 2) 
Standard ROM (drive 4) 
ATA card *3
SD memory card *3

*3 If the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is executed to the ATA card or SD memory card where the comments are stored, an operation error
(error code: 4130) occurs.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

144 4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction
• While SFC program is not executed, reading comments is not performed even if executing S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction.
Executing S(P).SFCTCOMR at a status of SFC program not being activated, 0 is stored to "total number of transition
conditions ((d1) +0)" and "the number of transition condition that have read comments ((d1) +1)". At this time, the device
specified in (d2) turns ON for 1 scan.
• With S(P). SFCTCOMR instruction, comments for the normal SFC program can be read. Comments of a SFC program to
control program execution are not read. Executing S(P). SFCTCOMR instruction specifying the SFC program to control
execution, 0 is stored to "the total number of transit conditions ((d1) + 0)" and "the number of transient conditions ((d1) +1)
". At this time, the device specified in (d2) turns ON for 1 scan.
• S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction cannot be executed simultaneously with S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction or S(P).SFCTCOMR
instruction. Executing S(P).SFCTOMR, and if S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction or S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is executed
before reading comments completed, the 2nd instruction will be de-activated.
• When the S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is attempted to be executed while SM721 is on, the instruction will not be executed.
However, when the execution condition is met, the instruction will be executed in the next scan. SM721 turns on in the
4
following operations:
Function
The S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction or the S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is executed.
The COMRD(P), S(P).FWRITE, S(P).FREAD, or SP.DEVST instruction is executed.
A file in the ATA card, SD memory card, or standard ROM is accessed by the read from PLC or write to PLC function, or by other file access operations.*4

*4 Effective only with the Universal model QCPU and LCPU.

• For the Universal model QCPU, when the S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is attempted to be executed while online change
(inactive block) is executed to the SFC block of comment read target, the instruction will not be executed. However, when
the execution condition is met, the instruction will be executed in the next scan.

Precautions
• Make sure to use comments to be read with S(P).SFCTCOMR after the device specified at (d2) turns ON. Comments to be
read before the device specified at (d2) turns ON become an indefinite value.
• If the number of transition conditions associated with active steps is larger than that of comments to be read in a single (n3),
the active step comments are divided into the number to be read in a single scan. Counting the total number of steps is also
performed with the same comment number (n3) for 1 scan. In case transition conditions are remained without being
counted when reading comments completed, the counting will be continued for the remained. Because of this, the number
of scans calculated in the following formula is required. (Comments to be actually stored are the same points stored in (d1)
+1)

*: It becomes a round-up below the decimal point.

• Execute "batch write of SFC program in RUN status", "online change (inactive block)", or "write of comment file in RUN
status" while the S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction is not executed. Also, execute the S(P).SFCTCOMR instruction while these
operations are not executed.

Operation Errors
Error code Description
2410 When a comment file specified at execution of S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction does not existed
4100 • When SFC block No. specified at n1 is other than 0 to 319
• When the number of readout comment specified at n2 is other than 0 to 256
• When the number of readout comments in a single scan specified at n3 is other than 0 to 256
4101 When the number of readout comments specified at n2 exceeds the device range of D1
4130 When the S(P).SFCSCOMR instruction is executed to the comment file in the ATA card or SD memory card

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction 145
 Program Example
• This program reads 2 comments associated with steps being activated at the SFC block No.1 when X1 is turned ON, and
stores those to the storage device after D0. (The number of comment to be read in a single scan is also set in 2.) An
interlock ladder to execute "batch write of SFC program in RUN status", "online change (inactive block)", and "write of
comment file in RUN status" is included in the following program.

• Procedure for "batch writes of SFC program in RUN status", "online change (inactive block)", or "write of comment file in
RUN status"
1. Turns ON the X0 (write execution command in RUN status).

2. M0 (write enable flag in RUN status) is turned ON when SP.SFCTCOMR instruction is deactivated.

3. Turns OFF the X0 (write execution command in RUN status).

4. Performs "batch write of SFC program in RUN status", "online change (inactive block)", or "write of comment file in RUN
status".
5. Turns OFF the M0 (write enable flag in RUN status) in the device test of the programming tool.

6. SP.SFCTCOMR instruction is executed again when M0 (write enable flag in RUN status) is turned OFF.

4 SFC PROGRAM CONFIGURATION

146 4.8 SFC Comment Readout Instruction
5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE
This chapter describes the processing sequence of the SFC programs.

5.1 Whole Program Processing of Basic Model QCPU

This section describes the program processing of the Basic model QCPU. Since this manual describes only the outline, refer
to the QCPU User's Manual (Function Explanation, Programming Fundamentals) for details.

Whole program processing sequence

The Basic model QCPU can create and execute two programs, "sequence program" and "SFC program", in the program
memory. (Two sequence programs or two SFC programs cannot be created. A SFC program for program execution
management cannot be created either.)
5

• The execution types of the sequence program and SFC program are fixed to the "scan execution type". (The execution
types of the sequence program and SFC program are fixed.)
• The Basic model QCPU executes the SFC program after execution of the sequence program. (The execution order of the
sequence program and SFC program is fixed.)
• The file name of the sequence program is fixed to "MAIN". Also, the file name of the SFC program is fixed to "MAIN-SFC".

When both the "sequence program" and "SFC program" exist in the program memory, both programs are
executed. Delete the programs, which will not be executed, from the program memory. When ROM operation
is performed, delete the programs, which will not be executed, from the standard ROM.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

5.1 Whole Program Processing of Basic Model QCPU 147
 5.2 QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU,
QnACPU
This section describes the whole program processing of the High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, Redundant CPU,
Universal model QCPU, LCPU, and QnACPU. Since this manual describes only the outline, refer to the QCPU User's Manual
(Function Explanation, Programming Fundamentals) for details.

Whole program processing sequence

The High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, Redundant CPU, Universal model QCPU, LCPU, and QnACPU can
store multiple programs in the program memory as files, and can execute multiple files concurrently or the specified file only.
The whole operation image is as shown below.

No. Execution Type Description SFC Compatibility

 Initial execution type program (Initial) • Executed only in one scan when the 
programmable controller is powered ON or the
CPU module is switched from STOP to RUN.
• After that switches to a stand-by program.
 Scan execution type program (Scan) Program executed every scan. Max. 124 programs (changes depending on the CPU
module type)
SFC program: Max. 2 programs*2
• Normal SFC program: 1 program
• SFC program for program execution management:
1 program*3
 Low speed execution type program Program executed in the extra time of the constant 
(Low speed) scan time, or program executed only during preset
time.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

148 5.2 QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU, QnACPU
No. Execution Type Description SFC Compatibility
 Stand-by type program (wait) • Programs such as a subroutine program and Max. 124 programs (changes depending on the CPU
interrupt program. module type)
• Started by the program START instruction for SFC program
execution. • Normal SFC program: Multiple programs can be set
• SFC program for program execution management:
Cannot be set
 Fixed scan execution type program Program executed in a fixed cycle. 
(Fixed scan)

*1 The low-speed execution type program execution is not available for the Redundant CPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU.
*2 Only one program is allowed for the Universal model QCPU and LCPU.
*3 The Universal model QCPU and LCPU do not support SFC programs for program execution management.

• When the SFC program set as a stand-by type program is to be started, the SFC program in execution must
be switched to a stand-by type program before it is started. Refer to Page 150 Execution type designation
by instructions for the method of switching between the scan execution type program and stand-by type
program.
5
• Specify the execution type of each program file in "Program" of the PLC parameter dialog box.
• In the "Program" of the PLC parameter dialog box, set the normal SFC program to the number higher than
that of the SFC program for program execution management. If the normal SFC program is set to the
number lower than that of the SFC program for program execution management, an error may occur when
the SFC program set as a stand-by type program is started.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

5.2 QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU, QnACPU 149
 Execution type designation by instructions
The "execution designation by instruction" function enables the execution type set in the program setting of the PLC
parameter dialog box to be changed by the instruction. This function can be applied to normal SFC programs only.
(Inapplicable to the SFC programs for program execution management.)

Instructions and corresponding operations

The following shows instructions and corresponding operations.
: Compatible, : Incompatible
Instruction Operation SFC
Compatibility
PSTOP Switches the program of the specified file name to a stand-by status, beginning in the next scan. 
POFF Executes the end processing of all blocks in the next scan in the SFC program of the specified file name, and 
switches the program to a stand-by status in the second scan after execution of the instruction.
PSCAN • Switches the program of the specified file name to a scan execution type, beginning in the next scan. 
• The execution order of multiple programs changes depending on the program setting order in the PLC
parameter dialog box.
PLOW • Switches the program of the specified file name to a low-speed execution type, beginning in the next scan. 
• The execution order of multiple programs changes depending on the program setting order in the PLC
parameter dialog box.

The following conditions will result in an operation error:

• When the specified program does not exist. (error No. 2410).
• When the PSTOP or PLOW instruction is executed (error No. 2412)
• When an scan execution type SFC program already exists when changing another SFC program to a scan
execution type using the PSCAN instruction. (error No.2504)
• The scan execution status of the specified SFC program can be checked using the PCHK instruction. (For
the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU, the PCHK instruction is not available.) For
details on the PCHK instruction, refer to the Programming Manual (Common Instructions) for the CPU
module used.

Instruction format
The following shows how to create an instruction.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

150 5.2 QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU, QnACPU
Processing time required to switch SFC program from WAIT status to scan status
The processing time required to switch an SFC program from a WAIT status to a scan status is shown below. Although the
scanning time is extended by the amount of the processing time, this will not result in a watch dog timer error detection. No
system processing time is required when switching from a scan status to a WAIT status.
Switching time = (number of created programs  Km) + (number of created steps  Kn) + (SFC program capacity  Kp)
Con- High Performance Process Redundant Universal model QCPU
stant Model QCPU CPU CPU
Q02CPU QnHCPU QnPHCPU QnPRHCPU Q00UJCPU, Q02UCPU Q03UDCPU, Q04UDHCPU, Q10UDHCPU,
Q00UCPU, Q03UDECPU Q06UDHCPU, Q13UDHCPU,
Q01UCPU Q04UDEHCPU, Q20UDHCPU,
Q06UDEHCPU Q26UDHCPU,
Q10UDEHCPU,
Q13UDEHCPU,
Q20UDEHCPU,
Q26UDEHCPU,
Q50UDEHCPU, 5
Q100UDEHCPU
Km 451.9s 194.7s 194.7s 194.7s 11.8s 11.2s 10.6s 4.4s 7.3s
Kn 19.1s 8.2s 8.2s 8.2s 3.8s 3.6s 0.7s 0.5s 1.1s
Kp 6.2s 2.7s 2.7s 2.7s 0.9s 0.8s 0.8s 0.7s 0.7s
Kq     8893.5s 8470s 13970s 8070s 8100s

Constant Universal model QCPU LCPU

Q03UDVCPU Q04UDVCPU, Q04UDPVCPU, L02SCPU, L02CPU, L06CPU, L26CPU,
Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU, L02SCPU-P L02CPU-P L06CPU-P L26CPU-P,
Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU, L26CPU-BT,
Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU L26CPU-PBT
Km 9.6s 6.3s 11.8s 11.6s 4.4s 7.3s
Kn 0.6s 1.0s 3.8s 2.8s 0.5s 1.1s
Kp 0.7s 0.6s 0.9s 0.8s 0.7s 0.7s
Kq 8920s 5400s 8893.5s 8460.0s 8070.0s 8100.0s

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

5.2 QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU, QnACPU 151
 SFC program for program execution management
This SFC program can be used to manage the program execution sequence when multiple program file switching is required.
In addition to a normal SFC program, only one block can be created and executed for a single file of an SFC program for
program execution management.

How to create SFC program for program execution management

This section describes how to create SFC program for program execution management.

■Number of files and blocks

In addition to a normal SFC program, only one file of an SFC program for program execution management can be created as
a scan execution type program. Only one block of the SFC program for program execution management can be created.

■Usable instructions
The SFC diagram symbols (except the block START steps) and steps that can be used in an SFC program and the sequence
instructions that can be used in transition conditions can all be used.

If block start steps are described, a "BLOCK EXE. ERROR" error (error No. 4621) will occur during SFC
program execution and the CPU module will stop the execution.

Execution procedure
The program is started automatically when registered as a scan execution type program. At end step processing, the initial
step is reactivated and processing is repeated.

• Use the peripheral device to select between the SFC program for program execution management and the
normal SFC program. For details regarding the setting procedure, refer to the GX Developer Operating
Manual (SFC).
• Periodic execution block settings cannot be defined the SFC programs for program execution control. If a
SFC program for program execution control is set in a periodic execution block, the execution of the SFC
program will not be performed.
• The Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU do not support SFC programs for program
execution management.
• The SFC program for program execution management cannot be set as a stand-by type program. In
addition, execution designation by POFF or PSCAN instruction cannot be applied to the program.
• The SFC control instructions cannot be executed for the SFC program for program execution management.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

152 5.2 QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU, QnACPU
Example of program execution management SFC programs
SFC1, SFC2 and SFC3 are assumed to be SFC program files and SQ is assumed to be a program file for a program other
than an SFC program.

The processing sequence when transition condition t4 is satisfied is the same as that shown above except for
a different "product type".

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

5.2 QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU, QnACPU 153
 5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence
This section describes the SFC program processing sequence.

SFC program execution

The SFC program is executed once per scan.

Basic model QCPU

The Basic model QCPU executes a sequence program and then executes a SFC program. The program execution status is
shown below under the following condition.
[Condition]
• SFC program: Set to Auto START ON
[Program execution]

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

154 5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence
QCPU (except Basic model QCPU), LCPU, QnACPU
The High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, Redundant CPU, Universal model QCPU, LCPU, and QnACPU can
store multiple programs in the program memory and execute them. (Scan execution is enabled for two SFC programs (one
SFC program for program execution management and one normal SFC program).*1 Multiple programs are executed in the
order of the program setting in the PLC parameter dialog box.
[Condition]
• Program setting in PLC parameter dialog box
1: ABC (sequence) <scan>
2: DEF (SFC) <scan>
3: XYZ (sequence) <low speed>
• Low speed program time setting in parameter: 5ms
• SFC program: Set to Auto START ON
[Program execution]

*1 For the Universal model QCPU and LCPU, only one SFC program (one normal SFC program) can be scanned.

Refer to Page 161 SFC Program START and STOP for the SFC program start/stop method.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence 155
 Block execution sequence
In the SFC program, the step in the active block is executed every scan. When there are multiple blocks, the blocks are
processed in order of lower to higher block numbers.
• In the active block, the active step in that block is executed.
• The inactive block is checked for a START request, and if there is a START request, the block is activated and the step in
that block is executed.

The SFC program is executed in order of  to .

: Whether block 0 is active or inactive is checked.
: Since block 0 is active, the active step (S2) is executed.
: Whether block 1 is active or inactive is checked.
: Since block 1 is active, the active step (S0) is executed.
: Whether block 2 is active or inactive is checked.
: Since block 2 is inactive, whether the next block is active or inactive is checked.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

156 5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence
Step execution sequence
In the SFC program, the operation outputs of all active steps are processed within one scan.

5
At the end of the operation output execution at each step, whether the transition condition to the next step is satisfied or not is
checked.
• When the transition condition is not yet satisfied, the operation output of the same step is also executed in the next scan.
• When the transition condition is satisfied, the outputs turned ON by the OUT instruction at the executed steps are all turned
OFF. When the next scan is executed, the operation output of the next step is executed. At this time, the operation output of
the step executed previously is deactivated (unexecuted).
The CPU module processes only the program of the operation output of the currently active step and the transition condition
to the next step.

Ex.
The execution sequence from a program start till a transition from the initial step to step 1 is as shown below.

(SM321: ON) (SM321: ON) (SM321: ON)

The step whose attribute has been set to a HOLD step is not deactivated (unexecuted). Processing continues
according to the set attribute.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence 157
 Continuous transition ON/OFF operation
There are two types of SFC program transition processing: "with continuous transition" and "without continuous transition".
Set "with continuous transition" or "without continuous transition" using the continuous transition bit of the SFC information
devices. When the device set to the continuous transition bit is turned ON/OFF by the user, operation is performed as
described below.
Continuous SM323 Operation
Transition Bit
No setting OFF Without continuous When the transition condition is satisfied, the operation output of the transition destination
transition step is executed in the next scan.
ON With continuous When the transition condition is satisfied, the operation output of the transition destination
transition step is executed within the same scan. When the transition conditions of the steps are
satisfied continuously, the operation outputs are executed within the same scan until the
transition condition is not satisfied or the end step is reached.
OFF ON/OFF Without continuous When the transition condition is satisfied, the operation output of the transition destination
transition step is executed in the next scan.
ON ON/OFF With continuous When the transition condition is satisfied, the operation output of the transition destination
transition step is executed within the same scan. When the transition conditions of the steps are
satisfied continuously, the operation outputs are executed within the same scan until the
transition condition is not satisfied or the end step is reached.

The tact time can be shortened by setting "with continuous transition". This resolves the problem of waiting
time from when the transition condition is satisfied until the operation output of the transition destination step
is executed. However, when "with continuous transition" is set, the operations of the other blocks and
sequence program may become slower.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

158 5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence
Transition processing for continuous transition OFF setting
The SFC program processing procedure without continuous transition will be described.

END processing is performed after all the program files set to the "scan execution type" in the program setting
of the PLC parameter dialog box have been executed. Refer to the QCPU User's Manual (Function
Explanation, Programming Fundamentals) for the detailed processing order of the programs other than the
SFC program and their processings.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence 159
 Transition processing for "continuous transition ON" setting
The SFC program processing procedure with continuous transition will be described.

END processing is performed after all the program files set to the "scan execution type" in the program setting
of the PLC parameter dialog box have been executed. Refer to the QCPU User's Manual (Function
Explanation, Programming Fundamentals) for the detailed processing order of the programs other than the
SFC program and their processings.

5 SFC PROGRAM PROCESSING SEQUENCE

160 5.3 SFC Program Processing Sequence
6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION
This chapter describes the SFC program execution.

6.1 SFC Program START and STOP

There are the following four types of SFC program start and stop methods.
• Auto START using PLC parameter
• Start and stop using the special relay for SFC program start/stop (SM321)
• Start and stop using the PSCAN/POFF instruction (except the Basic model QCPU)
• Start and stop using the programming tool (except the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU)

Auto START using PLC parameter

Set the start condition in the "SFC setting" of the PLC parameter dialog box to "Block 0 Auto START". The SFC program is
started when the CPU module switches from STOP to RUN. (When the SFC program starts, block 0 also starts.)

Start and stop using the special relay for SFC program start/stop (SM321)
SM321 turns ON when an Auto START is made using the PLC parameter.
• Turn OFF SM321 to stop the SFC program execution.
• Turn ON SM321 to start the SFC program.

Start and stop using the PSCAN/POFF instruction (except the Basic model QCPU)
• When the POFF instruction is executed, the SFC program in execution turns off the output and then stops. The execution
type changes to the "stand-by type".
• When the PSCAN instruction is executed, the stand-by type SFC program can be started. However, when the SFC
program has not been set to the "scan execution type" (SM321 is OFF) in the program setting of the PLC parameter dialog
box, the SFC program is started by turning ON Sm321. The execution type changes to the "scan execution type".

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.1 SFC Program START and STOP 161
 SFC program resumptive START procedure
The SFC program START format can be designated as "initial START" or "resumptive START". The "resumptive START"
setting procedure as well as some precautions regarding the "resumptive START" format are described below.

Resumptive START setting procedure

Make the resume START setting of the SFC program in the "SFC program start mode" of the SFC setting in the PLC
parameter dialog box.

Block operation status resulting from "SFC program START mode" setting
At an SFC program start, whether an initial start or resume start will be made is determined by the combination of the setting
of the "SFC program start mode" in the PLC parameter dialog box and the ON/OFF status of the "special relay for setting SFC
program start status (SM322)".
Operation SFC Program Start Mode
Initial Start Resume Start
SM322: OFF SM322: ON SM322: ON SM322: OFF
(Initial status)*1 (When changed by (Initial status)*1 (When changed
user) by user)
SM321: Turned ON Initial Initial Resume Initial
Programmable controller: Powered ON Resume/Initial*3
Programmable controller: Powered OFF and then Resume*2
ON after SM321 is switched from ON to OFF or the
CPU module is switched from RUN to STOP
CPU module: Reset and RUN Resume/Initial*6
CPU module: Reset and RUN after SM321 is Resume*2
switched from ON to OFF or the CPU module is
switched from RUN to STOP
CPU module: Switched from STOP to RUN Resume
CPU module: STOP, write a program, and then RUN Initial*4*5

*1 SM322 is turned ON/OFF by the system according to the setting of the "SFC program start mode" in the PLC parameter dialog box
when the CPU module switches from STOP  RUN.
 At initial start setting: OFF
 At resume start setting: ON
*2 Operation at resume start
At a resume start, the SFC program stop position is held but the status of each device used for the operation output is not held.
Therefore, make latch setting for the devices whose statuses must be held in making a resume start.
The held coil HOLD step SC becomes inactive, and is not kept held. In the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU, the
held coil HOLD step SC restarts in the held status. However, the output is not held. To hold the output, make latch setting for the devices
desired to be held.
*3 Depending on the timing, a resume start is disabled and an initial start may be made. To perform a resume start, turn ON and then OFF
SM321 or switch the CPU module from RUN to STOP, and power OFF and then ON the programmable controller. Note that the Basic
model QCPU and the Universal model QCPU with serial number "11042" (first five digits) or earlier always perform an initial start.
*4 A resume start may be made depending on the SFC program change. If a resume start is made as-is, a start is made from the old step
number, leading to a malfunction of the mechanical system. When any SFC program change (SFC diagram correction such as step
addition and deletion) has been made, make an initial start once and then return it to a resume start. Note that the Basic model QCPU
and the Universal model QCPU with serial number "11042" (first five digits) or earlier always perform an initial start.
*5 In the Universal model QCPU and LCPU, a resume start is performed if data other than SFC programs are changed.
*6 The Basic model QCPU and Universal model QCPU of which the first 5 digits of the serial number are "11042" always makes an initial
start.

• When the programmable controller is powered OFF or the CPU module is reset, the intelligent function
modules and special function modules are initialized. When making a resume start, create an initial program
for the intelligent function module/special function module in the block that is always active or in the
sequence program.
• When the programmable controller is powered OFF or the CPU module is reset, values in the devices
without a latch setting are cleared. To hold the values in the SFC information devices, set a latch range.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

162 6.1 SFC Program START and STOP
6.2 Block START and END
This section describes the block START and END.

Block START methods

The block START methods during SFC program execution are described below. As shown below, there are several block
START methods. Choose the method which is most suitable for the purpose at hand.
: Usable, : Unusable
START Method Operation Description Remarks Block 0 Other
than
Block 0
Auto START using By setting the "start condition" to "block 0 Auto START" Convenient when block 0 is used as a control  
PLC parameter in the SFC setting of the PLC parameter dialog box, block, a preprocessing block, or a constant
block 0 is automatically started at an SFC program start, monitoring block, for example.
and processing is executed from the initial step.
Block START by SFC Another block is started by the block START steps at • Convenient when the sequence control is  
diagram symbol each of the SFC program blocks. clear as in automatic operation.
• There are 2 types of block START: The
START source step remains active until the
START destination block is ended. The
6
START source transition occurs without
waiting for the START destination block to be
ended.

Block START by SFC Using an SFC control instruction, a specified block is Convenient when starting an error reset  
control instruction forcibly started from an SFC program step (operation processing block at error detection, etc., and
output), or from another sequence program. for executing interrupt processing, for example.
• When specified block is executed from its initial step:

• When specified block is executed from a specified

step:

Block START by SFC The corresponding block is activated by forcibly turning Convenient for debugging and test operations  
information device ON the "block START/END bit", which was set to each in 1-block units because the block can be
block as the SFC information device, in the program or started from a peripheral device without
peripheral device. requiring a program.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.2 Block START and END 163
 Block END methods
The methods for ending block operations are described below. As shown below, there are several block END methods.
Choose the method which is most suitable for the purpose at hand.
END Method Operation Description Remarks
Block END by SFC diagram symbol Block processing is ended and the block is deactivated • Convenient for cycle stops at automatic operations,
when the block's END step is executed. etc.
• Multiple END steps are possible within a single block.

Block END by SFC control instruction Using an SFC control instruction, a specified block is Convenient for executing a forced STOP (at emergency
forcibly ended and deactivated from an SFC program stops, etc.) without regard to the operation status.
step (operation output), or from another sequence
program.*1

Block END by SFC information device The processing of the corresponding block is ended to Convenient for debugging and test operations because
deactivate it by forcibly turning OFF the "block START/ block processing can be ended from a peripheral device
END bit", which was set to each block as the SFC without requiring a program.
information device, in the program or peripheral device.

*1 Block processing is also ended when the RST BLm\Sn instruction is used to deactivate all steps at a specified block.

A forced end to block processing is possible using a method which is different from that used to start the
block.
• A block started by an SFC diagram symbol can be ended by an SFC control instruction (RST BLm).
• A block started by an SFC control instruction (SET BLm) can be ended by forcibly turning OFF the block
START/END bit of the SFC information devices.

Restart after block END processing is completed

After block END processing is completed, the block can be restarted as shown below.
Block Description
Block 0 When the Start conditions is designated as "Autostart After block processing is ended, processing is started automatically from the initial
block 0" step.
When the Start conditions is designated as "Do not After block processing is ended, the block remains inactive until a START request
autostart block 0" occurs by one of the methods. ( Page 163 Block START methods)
Other than block 0

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

164 6.2 Block START and END
6.3 Block Temporary Stop and Restart Methods
This section describes the block temporary stop and restart methods

Block STOP methods

The temporary block STOP methods which can be used during SFC program execution are described below.

Block STOP methods

The methods for temporarily stopping a block during SFC program operation are shown below.
STOP Method Operation Description Remarks
Block STOP by SFC control instruction Using an SFC control instruction, a specified block is Convenient for temporarily stopping operation (at error
temporarily stopped from an SFC program step detection, etc.) in order to correct the error by manual
(operation output), or from another sequence program. operation. (The manual operation control program can be
placed at another block which is forcibly started when the
block STOP occurs.)

STOP by SFC information device The execution of the specified block is temporarily Convenient for confirming operation by step control at 6
stopped by forcibly turning ON the "block STOP/ debugging and test operations, because block
RESTART bit", which was set to each block as the SFC processing can be stopped from a peripheral device
information device, in the program or peripheral device. without requiring a program.

Block STOP timing and coil output status when STOP occurs
The STOP timing in response to a block STOP request, and the coil output status during the STOP are as shown below.
Setting of Operation Status of Operation
Output Output at STOP-time Active step other than held Held step*1
Mode at Block Mode Bit step Coil HOLD step (SC) Operation Operation
Block Stop Stop (including HOLD step whose HOLD step HOLD step
in PLC (SM325) transition condition is not (without (with
Parameter satisfied) transition transition
check) (SE) check) (ST)
Turns OFF OFF OFF • Immediately after a STOP request • Immediately after a • Immediately after a STOP request is
(coil output (coil output No setting is made, the coil output of the STOP request is made, the coil output of the operation
OFF) OFF) (immediate operation output is turned OFF made, the coil output output is turned OFF and the block is
Remains ON stop) and the block is stopped. of the operation output stopped.
(coil output • The status remains active. is turned OFF and the • The status remains active.
held) ON • Normal operation is performed block is stopped.
(STOP after until the transition condition is • The status becomes
transition) satisfied. inactive.
• When the transition condition is
satisfied, the end processing of
the corresponding step is
performed. At the same time, the
transition destination step
becomes active and the block
stops immediately.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.3 Block Temporary Stop and Restart Methods 165
 Setting of Operation Status of Operation
Output Output at STOP-time Active step other than held Held step*1
Mode at Block Mode Bit step Coil HOLD step (SC) Operation Operation
Block Stop Stop (including HOLD step whose HOLD step HOLD step
in PLC (SM325) transition condition is not (without (with
Parameter satisfied) transition transition
check) (SE) check) (ST)
Remains ON ON OFF • Immediately after a STOP request • Immediately after a STOP request is made, the block is stopped
(coil output (coil output No setting is made, the block is stopped with with the coil output of the operation output being held.
held) held) (immediate the coil output of the operation • The status remains active.
stop) output being held.
• The status remains active.
ON • Normal operation is performed
(STOP after until the transition condition is
transition) satisfied.
• When the transition condition is
satisfied, the end processing of
the corresponding step is
performed. At the same time, the
transition destination step
becomes active and the block
stops immediately.

*1 The held step indicates the step whose attribute has been set to the HOLD step (SC, SE, ST) and which is being held with the transition
condition satisfied.

Operation of SM325
The operation of SM325 differs depending on the CPU module.

■For the Basic model QCPU, High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, and QnACPU
SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) at STOP RUN of the CPU
module.

■For the Universal model QCPU and LCPU

SM325 turns ON/OFF according to the parameter setting (output mode setting at block stop) when the CPU module is
powered ON or is reset.
Parameter setting SM325
Turns OFF (coil output OFF) OFF
Remain ON (coil output held) ON

Note that the output mode at block stop can be changed regardless of the parameter setting by turning ON/
OFF SM325 in the user program.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

166 6.3 Block Temporary Stop and Restart Methods
Restarting a stopped block
The methods for restarting a block which has been temporarily stopped during SFC program processing are described below.

Restarting block processing

The methods for restarting a block which has been temporarily stopped are shown below.
Restart Method Operation Description Remarks
Restart by SFC control instruction Processing of the specified block is restarted by an SFC Convenient for returning to automatic operation when the
control instruction at a step (operation output) or manual control END signal is output at the temporary
sequence program outside the stopped block. STOP.

RESTART by SFC information device The execution of the corresponding block is restarted by Convenient for confirming operation by step control at
forcibly turning OFF the "block STOP/RESTART bit", debugging and test operations, because block
which was set to each block as the SFC information processing can be restarted from a peripheral device
device, in the program or peripheral device. without requiring a program.

6
Active step when restart occurs
The step which is active when a block is restarted varies according to the status which existed when the STOP occurred, as
shown below.
Output Mode Operation Output at Block RESTART
Setting at Block Active step other than held Held step*1
STOP step Coil HOLD step (SC) Operation HOLD step Operation HOLD step
(including HOLD step whose (without transition (with transition
transition condition is not check) (SE) check) (ST)
satisfied)
At coil output OFF Returns to normal operation. Restart disabled. (Since the Restarts the execution of • Restarts the operation
step is deactivated at a block the operation output in a output in a HOLD
STOP) HOLD status. status.
• Also checks the
At coil output HOLD Restarts as held.
transition condition.

*1 The held step indicates the step whose attribute has been set to the HOLD step (SC, SE, ST) and which is being held with the transition
condition satisfied.

Operation of SM325
The operation of SM325 is the same as one of the block STOP methods. ( Page 166 Operation of SM325)

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.3 Block Temporary Stop and Restart Methods 167
 6.4 Step START (Activate) and END (Deactivate)
Methods
This section describes the step START (Activate) and END (Deactivate) methods.

Step START (activate) methods

There are the following step START (activation) methods.
Step START (Activation) Operation Remarks
Method
Step START by SFC diagram symbol The corresponding step is automatically started when the Basic operation of SFC program
preceding transition condition is satisfied.

Condition
TRAN
Started when condition
is satisfied.

Step START by SFC control instruction The specified step is forcibly started by the SFC control • Jump to other blocks can be made.
instruction at the step (operation output) of the SFC • When the block of the destination step is inactive, a
program or in another sequence program. block forced START is made from the specified step.
• When there are initial steps in multiple blocks, a
selection START is made.

Step END (deactivate) methods

Steps can be ended (deactivated) by the methods shown below.
END Method Operation Remarks
END by SFC diagram symbol The step is automatically ended by the system when the • Basic operation of SFC program
transition condition associated with the corresponding • When the step attribute has been specified, operation
step is satisfied. is performed according to the attribute.

Set the step to a reset step as the step attribute and • Convenient for ending the HOLD step when the
specify the step number to be ended. machine operation condition is satisfied during SFC
program execution, when a transition to the error
processing step is performed by selection branch, for
example.
• The step number to be ended can be specified in only
the same block.

END by SFC control instruction The specified step is forcibly ended by the SFC control • The steps in different blocks can also be ended.
instruction at the step (operation output) of the SFC • The block is ended when all steps of the corresponding
program or in another sequence program. block are deactivated by the RST instruction.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

168 6.4 Step START (Activate) and END (Deactivate) Methods
Changing an active step status (Not available for Basic model
QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and LCPU)
This section describes the method for ending (deactivating) an active step and starting (activating) the specified step.
Changing Method Operation Remarks
Change by SFC control instruction At the step (operation output) of the SFC program, the • Convenient when the jump destination changes
instruction execution step is ended and the specified step depending on the condition.
is forcibly started. • The change destination step can be specified within
the current block.
• Indirect designation (D0, K4M0, etc.) can also be used
to specify the change destination step.
• When multiple instructions have been described within
one step, the change destination executed in the same
can will be valid.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.4 Step START (Activate) and END (Deactivate) Methods 169
 6.5 Operation Methods for Continuous Transition
If "with continuous transition" is set, whether a continuous transition will be performed or not can be selected at each step
using the continuous transition disable flag (SM324).

Processing performed when continuous transition disable flag is not used

SFC Program With Continuous Transition Without Continuous Transition
When the corresponding block becomes active, the • When the corresponding block becomes active, steps
processings of all steps are executed in the same scan, are executed in a 1-step-per-scan format.
and end step processing is performed to deactivate the • The end step processing is performed in the third scan
block. to deactivate the block.

Processing performed when continuous transition disable flag is used

SFC Program With Continuous Transition Without Continuous Transition
• When the corresponding block becomes active, • When the corresponding block becomes active, steps
execution proceeds to step 1 since SM324 is ON. are executed in a 1-step-per-scan format
When execution proceeds to step 1, the processing of independently of whether SM324 is present or absent.
the first scan is ended since SM324 turns OFF. • The end step processing is performed in the third scan
• In the second scan, execution proceeds to step 2 since to deactivate the block.
SM324 turns ON again. When execution proceeds to
step 2, SM324 turns OFF. Since the transition
condition of step 2 does not have the contact of
SM324, a transition occurs and the end step
processing is performed to deactivate the block.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

170 6.5 Operation Methods for Continuous Transition
6.6 Operation at Program Change
SFC programs of the CPU module can be changed by executing any of the following functions.
• Write to PLC (write in file unit)
• Online change (write in ladder block unit)
• Online change (inactive block) *1
The following table lists changes that can be made to the SFC programs by executing each function above.
: Possible, : Impossible
Change Type Program Change by Write Program Online change
to PLC Change by (inactive
PAUSE/ RUN Online Change block)
STOP status status*2*3
SFC program addition    
SFC block addition/deletion    
SFC block SFC diagram Step/transition addition/deletion    *4
change change
Transition destination change    *4
Step attribute change    *4
Change in SFC Operation output sequence program     6
diagram change
Transition condition sequence program    
change
Block data change    

*1 For the L02(S)CPU, L02(S)CPU-P, and the LCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "15101" or earlier, online change (inactive
block) cannot be performed.
*2 This function can be executed only when a CPU module and programming tool are used in the following combination.

CPU module Programming tool

High Performance model QCPU (whose first five digits of serial No. are GX Developer Version 8 or later, GX Works2
"04122" or later)
Process CPU (whose first five digits of serial No. are "07032" or later) GX Developer Version 8 or later, GX Works2
Redundant CPU GX Developer Version 8.18U or later, GX Works2

*3 The Universal model QCPU and LCPU do not support the use of this function in the RUN status.
*4 This function can be executed only when a CPU module and GX Works2 are used in the following combination.

CPU module Programming tool

Universal model QCPU other than the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, and Q02UCPU (serial number (first five digits) GX Works2 Version 1.34L or later
is "12052" or later)
LCPU other than the L02(S)CPU and L02(S)CPU-P (serial number (first five digits) is "15102" or later) GX Works2 Version 1.501X or
later

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.6 Operation at Program Change 171
 Operation at program change made by write to PLC
This section describes the operation at program change made by write to PLC.

When program was written with CPU module in PAUSE/STOP status

■Program start after write to PLC
An initial start is performed independently of the SFC start mode setting (initial start/resume start). Depending on the SFC
program change, however, an initial start is not made but a resume start may be made at the resume start setting. Refer to
Page 123 SFC program start mode for details of the SFC program start mode.

■Device status at program start

At a program start after write to PLC, the CPU module devices operate as described in the following table depending on the
setting of the SFC device clear mode setting flag (SM326).
SM326 Operation
Step relay Other than step relay
OFF Turned ON/OFF by the system. SFC program is executed after all devices have been cleared.
ON SFC program is executed with all devices held.

The setting of SM326 is valid only when an SFC program exists after write to PLC. When sequence program
and/or parameter write is performed, the setting of SM326 is also valid. (The setting of SM326 is ignored when
only the data other than the SFC program, sequence program and parameters are written.)

When program was written with CPU module in RUN status

■Program start after write to PLC
An initial start is performed independently of the SFC start mode setting (initial start/resume start). Refer to Page 123 SFC
program start mode for details of the SFC program start mode.

■Device status at program start

The SFC program is executed with all devices held.

Program change by online change

This section describes the program change by online change.

Program start after write to PLC

When program change is made by online change, a resume start is performed independently of the SFC start mode setting.

Device status at program start

The SFC program is executed with all devices held.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

172 6.6 Operation at Program Change
Online change (inactive block)
An inactive SFC block can be changed in units of blocks.

This function can be executed only when a CPU module and GX Works2 are used in the following
combination.
• Universal model QCPU other than the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, and Q02UCPU (serial number
(first five digits) is "12052" or later): GX Works2 Version 1.34L or later
• LCPU other than the L02(S)CPU and L02(S)CPU-P (serial number (first five digits) is "15102" or later): GX
Works2 Version 1.501X or later

Supported program
This function can be executed to an SFC program registered in the Program tab of the PLC parameter dialog box.

When there are multiple programs in the program memory, this function cannot be executed to a program not
registered in the Program tab.

Available operations
The following operations can be executed to an inactive block with GX Works2.
Operation Description
Changing a block • An SFC block program in the CPU module can be changed.
• An SFC information device for the target SFC block can be changed.
Adding a block • An SFC block can be added to an SFC program in the CPU module.
• An SFC information device can be added to the target SFC block.
Deleting a block • The specified SFC block can be deleted from the SFC program in the CPU module.
• An SFC information device for the target SFC block can be deleted.
• When the target block is not in an SFC program in the CPU module, deleting a block cannot be performed.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.6 Operation at Program Change 173
 Area to be overwritten
This section describes the area to be overwritten.

■Area to be changed
All programs of the target block are overwritten. Multiple blocks cannot be batch-written. In online change (inactive block), a
program (before change) in a programming tool is not verified with the program in the CPU module. Therefore, verifying an
SFC program in the programming tool with that in the CPU module beforehand is recommended.

■Change in signal flow memory

Signal flow memories of the target block all turn off.

■SFC information devices

The following SFC information devices can be added/changed/deleted.
• Block START/END bit
• Step transition bit
• Block PAUSE/RESTART bit
• Pause mode bit
• Number of active steps register
• Continuous transition bit

Before an SFC program is changed, the above devices are checked if they are within the device range. If any
of them are outside the device range, the online change (inactive block) cannot be performed.

■Available execution type

Online change (inactive block) can be executed to a scan execution type program (cannot be executed to a standby type
program).

■Changing the execution type of a program during online change (inactive block)
The execution type of a program being written by online change (inactive block) cannot be changed with Program control
instructions (POFF and PSCAN instructions).

■Availability depending on block status

The following table shows availability of online change (inactive block) depending on the block status at the start of writing.
Block status Availability
Inactive*1 Online change (inactive block) can be executed.
Active Online change (inactive block) cannot be executed.
However, while SM321 (Start/stop SFC program) is off, even when the block is active immediately before the relay turns off,
online change (inactive block) can be executed.*2

*1 For how to end processing of a block and set it to inactive, refer to Page 164 Block END methods.
*2 While SM321 is off, online change (inactive block) can be executed, regardless of the target block status immediately before the relay
turns off. Note when online change (inactive step) is executed while SM321 is off, the SFC program always starts in initial start mode,
regardless of settings configured in "SFC Program Start Mode" in the SFC tab of the PLC parameter dialog box and SM322 (SFC
program start status).

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

174 6.6 Operation at Program Change
■Operation when the target block is attempted to be started while online change (inactive
block) is executed
The target block does not start. The following table shows operations depending on block start method.
Start method (activation method) Operation at block start
Block START step (without END check) • The target block does not start until when online change (inactive block) is ended. Even when the
transition condition for the step is met, the processing does not move to the next step.
• The target block starts after online change (inactive block) is ended. When the transition condition is met,
the processing moves to the next step.
Block START step (with END check) • The target block does not start until when online change (inactive block) is ended.
• The target block starts after online change (inactive block) is ended. When the transition condition for the
step is met, the processing moves to the next step.
SFC control instruction (SET BL , SET S , The target block does not start. While an instruction contact remains on, the target block starts after online
SET BL\S  instructions) change (inactive block) is ended (for a program to execute the Block START instruction, refer to the
following program example.
SFC information device (block START/END bit) The target block does not start even when the block START/END bit turns on. When the block START/END
bit is on, the target block starts after online change (inactive block) is ended. (The status of the block
START/END bit does not change until when online change (inactive block) is ended).

In the STOP or PAUSE status, an active step holds the activated status. Therefore, when the CPU module is
set to STOP or PAUSE while the target block is active, online change (inactive block) cannot be executed to 6
the block.

Ex.
Program example to execute the Block START instruction during online change (inactive block)

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.6 Operation at Program Change 175
 ■Reserved area for online change
Secure reserved area for online change by the amount to be added/changed by online change (inactive block).
• Adding/changing an SFC information device
When all SFC information devices are not set for the target block, SFC information device area will not be created in the
program file. The device area will be added to the program file when an SFC information device is added to the block by
online change (inactive block). Then, free area in reserved area for online change will be reduced. (When the target block has
already contained SFC information devices, changing the SFC information device will not reduce free area in reserved area
for online change.)
• Amount used in reserved area for online change by adding an SFC diagram symbol
The following table shows the amount used in reserved area for online change by adding an SFC diagram symbol by online
change (inactive block).
Description Before addition After addition Amount used in reserved area for
online change (unit: step)
Adding an SFC step in serial transition 7 + Number of steps in step 2 + Number of
steps of transition condition 2

Increasing the number branches in 12 + Number of steps in step 5 + Number

selection branching of steps of transition condition 6 + Number
of steps of transition condition 7

Increasing the number of branches in 7 + Number of steps in step 6

parallel branching

Adding an SFC block (No relevant SFC blocks) 10 + Number of steps in step 0 + Number
of steps of transition condition 0 (When
SFC information device is set, further 9
steps are reduced.)

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

176 6.6 Operation at Program Change
■Precautions
• If GX Works executes online change (inactive block) while another GX Works2 executes online change or program backup,
the online change (inactive block) cannot be performed. The online change (inactive block) cannot be performed, if another
GX works2 executes online change or program backup while GX Works2 executes online change (inactive block).
• After addition of SFC steps, if the number of SFC steps exceeds the number of step relay (S) points set in the Device tab of
the PLC parameter dialog box, the online change (inactive block) cannot be performed.
• When online change (inactive block) is executed during boot operation from a memory card, the original program in the
memory card will not be changed.
• If the CPU module is powered off and then on or is reset before termination of online change (inactive block), the changes
in the target program will not be reflected.
• When the CPU module is set to STOP and an SFC program is written to the CPU module, online change (inactive block)
cannot be executed to the SFC program until when the CPU module is set to RUN.
• When multiple SFC programs of scan execution type are registered and "CAN'T EXE.PRG." (error code: 2504) occurs,
online change (inactive block) cannot be executed.

6 SFC PROGRAM EXECUTION

6.6 Operation at Program Change 177
 APPENDICES
Appendix 1 Special Relay and Special Register List
This section lists the special relays and special registers that can be used in SFC programs. For the special relays and special
registers for other programs, refer to the user's manual for the CPU module used.
The heading descriptions in the lists are shown in the table below.
Item Function of Item
Number Indicates special relay and special register number.
Name Indicates name of special relay and special register.
Meaning Indicates contents of special relay and special register.
Explanation Discusses contents of special relay and special register in more detail.
Set by (When set) Indicates whether the relay or register is set by the system or user, and, if it is set by the system, when setting is performed.
• Set by
S: Set by system
U: Set by user (sequence programs or test operations from GX Developer)
S/U: Set by both system and user
• When set
Indicated only for relays and registers set by system
Initial: Set only during initial processing (when power supply is turned ON, or when going from STOP to RUN)
Status change: Set only when there is a change in status
Error: Set when error occurs
Instruction execution: Set when instruction is executed
Corresponding CPU Indicates the corresponding CPU module type name.
(1) Basic model QCPU
(2) High Performance model QCPU
(3) Process CPU
(4) Redundant CPU
(5) Universal model QCPU, LCPU
(6) QnACPU

APPX
178 Appendix 1 Special Relay and Special Register List
Special Relay (SM) List
The following table lists the special relays that can be used in the SFC programs.
Number Name Meaning Explanation Set by Corresponding CPU
(When set) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
SM90 Step transition watch OFF: Not started (Watch • Switched ON to begin the U      
dog timer START dog timer reset) step transition watch dog
(corresponds to SD90) ON: Started (Watch dog timer count.
SM91 Step transition watch timer start) • Watch dog timer is reset
when switched OFF.
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD91)
SM92 Step transition watch
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD92)
SM93 Step transition watch
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD93)
SM94 Step transition watch
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD94)
SM95 Step transition watch
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD95)
SM96 Step transition watch
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD96)
SM97 Step transition watch
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD97)
SM98 Step transition watch
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD98)
SM99 Step transition watch
A
dog timer START
(corresponds to SD99)

APPX
Appendix 1 Special Relay and Special Register List 179
 Number Name Meaning Explanation Set by Corresponding CPU
(When set) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
SM320 SFC program OFF: Not started (Watch • Switched ON to begin the S (Initial)      
presence/absence dog timer reset) step transition watch dog *1

ON: Started (Watch dog timer count.

timer start) • Watch dog timer is reset
when switched OFF.
SM321 SFC program START/ OFF: SFC program not • The same value as in S (Initial), U
STOP executed (stop) SM320 is set as the
ON: SFC program default value.
executed (start) (Automatically switches
ON when the SFC
program exists.)
• When this relay is
switched from ON to OFF,
the SFC program
execution is stopped.
• When this relay is
switched from OFF to ON,
the SFC program
execution is restarted.
SM322 SFC program START OFF: Initial START The SFC program start S (Initial), U
status ON: Resumptive START mode set in the SFC setting
of the PLC parameter dialog
box is set as the default
value.
At initial start: OFF
At resume start: ON
SM323 All-blocks continuous OFF: Continuous Set whether a continuous U
transition status transition enabled transition will be performed
ON: Continuous transition or not for the block where
disabled the "continuous transition
bit" of the SFC information
devices has not been set

APPX
180 Appendix 1 Special Relay and Special Register List
Number Name Meaning Explanation Set by Corresponding CPU
(When set) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
SM324 Continuous transition OFF: After transition • OFF during operation in S (Instruction      
disable flag ON: Before transition the "with continuous execution) *1

transition" mode or during

S (Status change)
continuous transition, and
ON when not during
continuous transition.
• Always ON during
operation in the "without
continuous transition"
mode.
SM325 Operation output at OFF: Coil output OFF Select whether the coil S (Initial), U
block STOP ON: Coil output ON output of the active step will
be held or not at a block
STOP.
• As the default value, OFF
when coil output OFF is
selected for the output
mode at parameter block
STOP, and ON when coil
output held is selected.
• When this relay is OFF,
the coil outputs are all
turned OFF.
• When this relay is ON, the
coil outputs are held.
SM326 SFC device clear OFF: Clear device Select the device status U
mode ON: Preserves device when the CPU is switched
from STOP to program write
to RUN. (All devices except
the step relay)
SM327 Output mode at end OFF: HOLD step output When this relay is OFF, the
step execution OFF SC, SE or ST step that was
ON: HOLD step output held when a transition
held condition had been satisfied
turns OFF the coil output
A
when the end step is
reached.
SM328 Clear processing OFF: Clear processing is Select whether clear      
mode at arrival at end performed processing will be performed *1

step ON: Clear processing is or not when active steps

not performed other than those held exist in
the block at the time of
arrival at the end step.
• When this relay is OFF,
the active steps are all
ended forcibly to end the
block.
• When this relay is ON, the
execution of the block is
continued as is.
• When no active steps
other than those held exist
at the time of arrival at the
end step, the held steps
are all ended to end the
block.

APPX
Appendix 1 Special Relay and Special Register List 181
 Number Name Meaning Explanation Set by Corresponding CPU
(When set) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
SM329 Online change OFF: Not executed This relay indicates the S (Status change)      
(inactive block) status ON: Being executed execution status of online *5

flag change (inactive block).

SM331 Normal SFC program • Indicates whether the      
execution status normal SFC program is *2 *4

being executed or not.

• Used as an execution
interlock of the SFC
control instruction.
SM332 Program execution • Indicates whether the
management SFC program execution
program execution management SFC
status program is being
executed or not.
• Used as an execution
interlock of the SFC
control instruction.
SM735 SFC comment readout OFF: SFC comment Turns on the instructions,      
instruction in execution readout instruction is (S(P).SFCSCOMR) to read *3 *4 *4 *5

flag inactivated. the SFC step comments and

ON: SFC comment (S(P). SFCTCOMR) to read
readout instruction is the SFC transition condition
activating. comments.
SM820 Step trace ready status OFF: Not ready Switches ON when a S (Status change)      
ON: Ready "ready" status is established
after step trace registration.
SM821 Step trace START OFF: Trace STOP Designates the step trace U
ON: Trace START START/STOP status.
When ON: Step trace
function is started.
When OFF: Step trace
function is stopped. If
switched OFF during a trace
execution, the trace
operation is stopped.
SM822 Step trace execution OFF: Trace inactive ON when step trace S (Status change)
flag ON: Trace active execution is in progress, and
OFF when tracing is
completed or stopped.
SM823 Post-trigger step trace OFF: Trigger unsatisfied Switches ON when a trigger
ON: Trigger satisfied condition is satisfied at any
of the blocks where the step
trace function is being
executed.
SM824 Post-trigger step trace OFF: Block with Switches ON when trigger
unsatisfied trigger exists conditions are satisfied at all
ON: Triggers at all blocks blocks where the step trace
are satisfied function is being executed.
SM825 Step trace END flag OFF: Trace START Switches ON when step
ON: Trace END tracing is completed at all
the specified blocks, and
switches OFF when step
tracing begins.

*1 Available with the CPU module whose function version is B or later

*2 Available with the CPU module whose serial number (first five digits) is "04122" or later
*3 Available with the CPU module whose serial number (first five digits) is "07012" or later
*4 Available with the CPU module whose serial number (first five digits) is "07032" or later
*5 Available with the Universal model QCPU other than the Q00U(J), Q01U, Q02UCPU, whose serial number (first five digits) is "12052" or
later. Available with the LCPU other than the L02(S)CPU(-P), whose serial number (first five digits) is "15102" or later.

APPX
182 Appendix 1 Special Relay and Special Register List
Special Register (SD) List
The following table lists the special registers that can be used in the SFC programs.
Number Name Meaning Explanation Set by Corresponding CPU
(When set) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
SD90 Corresponding to Timer set value • Set the set time of the step transition U      
SM90 and F No. at watch dog timer and the annunciator
SD91 Corresponding to time-out No. (F No.) that will turn ON at time-out
SM91 of the watch dog timer.

SD92 Corresponding to
SM92
SD93 Corresponding to
SM93
SD94 Corresponding to
SM94
SD95 Corresponding to
• The timer starts when any of SM90 to
SM95
SM99 is turned ON during an active
SD96 Corresponding to step, and the set annunciator (F) turns
SM96 ON if the transition condition following
SD97 Corresponding to the corresponding step is not satisfied
SM97 within the timer time limit.

SD98 Corresponding to
SM98
SD99 Corresponding to
SM99
SD329 Online change SFC block • While online change (inactive block) is S (Status      
(inactive block) target number executed (SM329 is on.), this register change) *1

block number stores the target SFC block number.

• In other than the status above, this
register stores FFFFH.

*1 Available with the Universal model QCPU other than the Q00U(J), Q01U, Q02UCPU, whose serial number (first five digits) is "12052" or A
later. Available with the LCPU other than the L02(S)CPU(-P), whose serial number (first five digits) is "15102" or later.

The special registers SD90 to SD99 correspond to the following special relays.
Special register Special relay
SD90 SM90
SD91 SM91
SD92 SM92
SD93 SM93
SD94 SM94
SD95 SM95
SD96 SM96
SD97 SM97
SD98 SM98
SD99 SM99

APPX
Appendix 1 Special Relay and Special Register List 183
 Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison
Compared to MELSAP-II, the improved MELSAP3 has additional functions which facilitate the use of SFC programs.
MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 are compared below.

SFC program control by instructions

Using SFC control instructions at a sequence program, the SFC program status can be checked, and blocks/steps can be
forcibly started and ended.

Additional step attributes

MELSAP3 offers many more step attributes, such as the operation HOLD step, reset step, block START step (without END
wait), etc. Moreover, machine control by SFC program has been made easier by improvements such as the step follow-up
function (activates multiple steps in a series within a single block), and a control function which allows transitions (at block
START requests) without waiting for a block END status at the START destination block (asynchronous control of the START
source and destination blocks).

Expanded memory capacity

In addition to an increased number of steps and branches per block, the capacity of step and transition condition programs
has been increased to 4k sequence steps in order to make programming easier.

Substantial block information

The amount of block information has been increased, permitting operations such as a continuous transition designation in 1-
block units, and a STOP timing selection ("immediate STOP" or "STOP when transition condition is satisfied") for block STOP
requests. Furthermore, the additional block information simplifies operation by permitting a block START and END to be
executed from a single device.

Increased processing speed reduces system processing time

The SFC program's system processing time has been reduced, resulting in reduced tact times through the efficient
combination of the SFC program functions.

Improved operability of SFC software package

Troublesome menu switching operations have been eliminated by permitting SFC comments, steps and transition condition
programs to be created concurrently with SFC ladder creation. Moreover, the SFC diagram cut and paste function, and block
unit registration/utilization have been simplified.

APPX
184 Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison
SFC Diagram Symbols
The following table lists the comparison of the SFC diagram symbols.
Name MELSAP- MELSAP3
Step
, ,

Coil HOLD step

Operation HOLD step (without transition check) 

Operation HOLD step (with transition check) 

Reset step 

Block START step (with END wait)

Block START step (without END wait) 

Coupling and Branch

A dummy step is required when couplings or

branches are duplicated at a transition condition.

Coupling and branch duplications are possible at a

transition condition.

APPX
Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison 185
 SFC Control Instructions
The SFC control instruction shown below are available at MELSAP3. MELSAP-II has no SFC control instructions.
Name Ladder Expression Function Corresponding CPU*1
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
Step status (active/ [LD, AND, OR, LDI, ANI, ORI] Sn Executes a check to determine if a specified      
inactive) check step at a specified block is active or inactive.
[LD, AND, OR, LDI, ANI, ORI] BLmSn
instruction
Forced transition [LD, AND, OR, LDI, ANI, ORI] TRn Checks a specified step in a specified block      
check instruction to determine if the transition condition (by
[LD, AND, OR, LDI, ANI, ORI] BLmTRn
transition control instruction) for that step
was satisfied forcibly or not.
Block operation status [LD, AND, OR, LDI, ANI, ORI] BLm Checks a specified block to determine if it is      
check instruction active or inactive.
Active steps batch MOV(P) K4Sn (d) Active steps in a specified block are read to a
readout instruction specified device as bit information.
MOV(P) BLm\K4Sn (d)
DMOV(P) K8Sn (d)
DMOV(P) BLm\K8Sn (d)
BMOV(P) K4Sn (d) Kn
BMOV(P) BLm\K4Sn (d) Kn
Block START SET BLm A specified block is forcibly started
instruction (activated) independently, and is executed
from its initial step.
Block END instruction RST BLm A specified block is forcibly ended
(deactivated).
Block STOP instruction PAUSE BLm A specified block is temporarily stopped.
Block restart RSTART BLm The temporary stop status at a specified
instruction block is canceled, with operation resuming
from the STOP step.
Step control instruction SET Sn A specified block is forcibly started      
SET BLm\Sn (activated) independently, and is executed
from a specified step.
RST Sn A specified step in a specified block is
forcibly ended (deactivated).
RST BLm\Sn
SCHG (d) The instruction execution step is deactivated,      
and a specified step is activated.
Transition control SET TRn A specified transition condition at a specified      
instruction block is forcibly satisfied.
SET BLm\TRn
RST TRn The forced transition at a specified transition
RST BLm\TRn condition in a specified block is canceled.

Block switching BRSET (s) Blocks subject to the "*1" SFC control     *2 
instruction instruction are designated.

*1 Indicates the corresponding CPU module type name.

(1) Basic model QCPU
(2) High Performance model QCPU
(3) Process CPU
(4) Redundant CPU
(5) Universal model QCPU, LCPU
(6) QnACPU
*2 Available with the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13102" or later.

APPX
186 Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison
Block/Step START, END, and STOP Methods
The following table lists the comparison of the block/step START, END, and STOP methods.
Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
By SFC Diagram By Block By SFC Diagram By Block By SFC
Symbol Information Symbol Information control
Instruction
Block START (with END check)   
m m

Block START (without END check)  Block active bit ON Block START/END bit SET BLm
m
ON SET BLm\Sn

Block END Block clear bit ON  Block START/END bit RST BLm
OFF OFF

Block STOP  Block STOP bit ON  Block STOP/RESTART PAUSE BLm

bit ON
Block restart (STOP cancel)  Block STOP bit OFF  Block STOP/RESTART RSTART BLm
bit OFF
Step START Block active No.  SET Sn
register(at block STOP SET BLm\Sn
only)

Step END   RST Sn

Sn RST BLm\Sn

Active step change*1     SCHG Sn

Active step forced transition*1     SET TRn
SET BLm\TRn
Forced transition cancel*1     RST TRn
RST BLm\TRn
STOP timing at block STOP request  Not specified (immediate  Specified by block STOP 
A
STOP) mode bit ("immediate
STOP" or "STOP after
transition condition is
satisfied")

*1 The Basic model QCPU cannot use active step change, active step forced transition, and forced transition cancel.

APPX
Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison 187
 Basic model QCPU
The following table lists the comparison between MELSAP- and MELSAP3 when the Basic model QCPU is used.

SFC Program Specifications

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
SFC program Capacity Max. 14k bytes (A1SHCPU) Max. 14k steps (Q01CPU)
Number of blocks Max. 256 blocks Max. 128 blocks
Number of SFC steps Max. of 255 steps per block Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 128 steps per block
Number of branches Max. of 22 Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks) Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 22 steps per block Max. of 128 steps per block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. of 255 sequence steps Max. of 255 sequence steps
steps Max. of 2k steps per block*1
No limit per step
Number of transition condition One ladder block only One ladder block only
sequence steps Max. of 255 sequence steps
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (8 timers) None

*1 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

System processing times

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
Basic model QCPU
A1S(J)H A2SH Q00JCPU Q00CPU Q01CPU
Active block processing 63.6s 48.2s 41.9s 35.5s 27.3s
Inactive block processing 3.2s 2.4s 10.5s 8.8s 6.8s
Nonexistent block processing 3.0s 2.3s 1.1s 0.9s 0.7s
Active step processing 91.5s 69.3s 31.6s 26.7s 20.5s
Transition condition processing associated 26.9s 20.4s 10.2s 8.7s 6.7s
with active step
Transition With HOLD step 9.9s 7.5s 216.0s 182.8s 140.6s
condition- designation
satisfied step
Normal step 35.9s 27.2s 263.5s 222.9s 171.5s
processing
SFC END processing 200.8s 152.1s 66.8s 56.5s 43.5s

APPX
188 Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison
High Performance model QCPU, Process CPU, Redundant CPU
and QnACPU
The following table lists the comparison between MELSAP- and MELSAP3 when the High Performance model QCPU,
Process CPU, Redundant CPU, or QnACPU is used.

SFC Program Specifications

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
SFC program Capacity Max. 58k bytes Max. 124k steps (Q4ACPU)
(A3NCPU, A3ACPU, A3UCPU, Max. 252k steps (Q25HCPU, Q25PHCPU,
A4UCPU) Q25PRHCPU)
(main program only)
Number of blocks Max. 256 blocks Max. 320 blocks
Number of SFC steps Max. of 255 steps per block Max. of 8192 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 512 steps per block
Number of branches Max. of 22 Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks) Max. of 1280 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 22 steps per block Max. of 256 steps per block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. of 255 sequence steps Max. of 2k steps per block*1
steps No limit per step
Number of transition condition One ladder block only One ladder block only
sequence steps Max. of 255 sequence steps
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (8 timers) Function exists(10 timers)

*1 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

System processing times A

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
A3ACPU(F), AnNCPU-F, Q4ACPU, High Performance Process Redundant
A3UCPU, A1SCPU Q2ASHCPU Model QCPU CPU CPU
A4UCPU QnCPU QnHCPU QnPHCPU QnPRHCPU
Active block processing 57.0s 260.0s 30.6s 33.7s 14.5s 14.5s 14.5s
Inactive block processing 14.0s 45.0s 10.7s 12.0s 5.2s 5.2s 5.2s
Nonexistent block processing 4.0s 25.0s 4.6s 4.1s 1.8s 1.8s 1.8s
Active step processing 49.5s 355.0s 23.2s 24.5s 10.6s 10.6s 10.6s
Transition condition processing 29.5s 100.0s 9.4s 10.0s 4.3s 4.3s 4.3s
associated with active step
Transition With HOLD step 2.4s 13.5s 137.2s 130.4s 56.2s 56.2s 56.2s
condition- designation
satisfied step
Normal step 17.0s 60.0s 122.5s 119.4s 51.5s 51.5s 51.5s
processing
SFC END processing 195.0s 285.0s 89.7s 108.2s 46.6s 46.6s 46.6s

APPX
Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison 189
 Universal model QCPU
The following table lists the comparison between MELSAP- and MELSAP3 when the Universal model QCPU is used.
• Q00U(J)CPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU

SFC Program Specifications

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
SFC program Capacity Max. 14k bytes (A1SHCPU) Max. 20k steps (Q02UCPU)
Number of blocks Max. 256 blocks Max. 128 blocks
Number of SFC steps Max. of 255 steps per block Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 128 steps per block
Number of branches Max. of 22 Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks) Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 22 steps per block Max. of 128 steps per block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. of 255 sequence steps Max. of 2k steps per block*1
steps No limit per step
Number of transition condition One ladder block only One ladder block only
sequence steps Max. of 255 sequence steps
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (8 timers) None

*1 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

System processing times

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
A1S(J)H A2SH Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, Q02UCPU
Active block processing 63.6s 48.2s 8.4s
Inactive block processing 3.2s 2.4s 3.9s
Nonexistent block processing 3.0s 2.3s 0.8s
Active step processing 91.5s 69.3s 8.6s
Transition condition processing associated 26.9s 20.4s 2.1s
with active step
Transition With HOLD step 9.9s 7.5s 69.6s
condition- designation
satisfied step
Normal step 35.9s 27.2s 83.2s
processing
SFC END processing 200.8s 152.1s 38.4s

APPX
190 Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison
• QnUD(E)(H)CPU

SFC Program Specifications

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
SFC program Capacity Max. 58k bytes Max. 100k steps (Q100UDEHCPU)
(A3NCPU, A3ACPU, A3UCPU,
A4UCPU)
(main program only)
Number of blocks Max. 256 blocks Max. 320 blocks
Number of SFC steps Max. of 255 steps per block Max. of 8192 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 512 steps per block
Number of branches Max. of 22 Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks) Max. of 1280 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 22 steps per block Max. of 256 steps per block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. of 255 sequence steps Max. of 2k steps per block*1
steps No limit per step
Number of transition condition One ladder block only One ladder block only
sequence steps Max. of 255 sequence steps
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (8 timers) None

*1 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

System processing times

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
A3ACPU(F), AnNCPU-F, Q03UDCPU, Q04UDHCPU, Q06UDHCPU, Q10UDHCPU,
A3UCPU, A1SCPU Q03UDECPU Q13UDHCPU, Q20UDHCPU, Q26UDHCPU,
A4UCPU Q04UDEHCPU, Q06UDEHCPU, Q10UDEHCPU,
Q13UDEHCPU, Q20UDEHCPU, Q26UDEHCPU, A
Q50UDEHCPU, Q100UDEHCPU
Active block processing 57.0s 260.0s 8.3s 7.0s
Inactive block processing 14.0s 45.0s 3.8s 3.4s
Nonexistent block processing 4.0s 25.0s 0.7s 0.6s
Active step processing 49.5s 355.0s 8.2s 6.4s
Transition condition processing 29.5s 100.0s 2.0s 1.6s
associated with active step
Transition With HOLD step 2.4s 13.5s 60.3s 42.7s
condition- designation
satisfied step
Normal step 17.0s 60.0s 73.7s 52.0s
processing
SFC END processing 195.0s 285.0s 36.6s 26.9s

APPX
Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison 191
 • QnUDVCPU, QnUDPVCPU

SFC Program Specifications

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
SFC program Capacity Max. 58k bytes Max. 260k steps (Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU)
(A3NCPU, A3ACPU, A3UCPU,
A4UCPU)
(main program only)
Number of blocks Max. 256 blocks Max. 320 blocks
Number of SFC steps Max. of 255 steps per block Max. of 8192 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 512 steps per block
Number of branches Max. of 22 Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks) Max. of 1280 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 22 steps per block Max. of 256 steps per block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. of 255 sequence steps Max. of 2k steps per block*1
steps No limit per step
Number of transition condition One ladder block only One ladder block only
sequence steps Max. of 255 sequence steps
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (8 timers) None

*1 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

System processing times

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
A3ACPU(F), AnNCPU-F, Q03UDVCPU Q04UDVCPU, Q06UDVCPU, Q06UDPVCPU,
A3UCPU, A1SCPU Q04UDPVCPU Q13UDVCPU, Q13UDPVCPU,
A4UCPU Q26UDVCPU, Q26UDPVCPU
Active block processing 57.0s 260.0s 5.0s 4.8s 4.8s
Inactive block processing 14.0s 45.0s 2.5s 2.3s 2.3s
Nonexistent block processing 4.0s 25.0s 0.60s 0.33s 0.33s
Active step processing 49.5s 355.0s 5.8s 5.5s 5.5s
Transition condition processing associated 29.5s 100.0s 1.3s 1.3s 1.3s
with active step
Transition With HOLD step 2.4s 13.5s 38s 34s 34s
condition- designation
satisfied step Normal step 17.0s 60.0s 50s 41s 41s
processing
SFC END processing 195.0s 285.0s 25.5s 25.5s 25.5s

APPX
192 Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison
LCPU
The following table lists the comparison between MELSAP- and MELSAP3 when the LCPU is used.
• L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P, L02CPU, L02CPU-P

SFC Program Specifications

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
SFC program Capacity Max. 14k bytes (A1SHCPU) Max. 20k steps
Number of blocks Max. 256 blocks Max. 128 blocks
Number of SFC steps Max. of 255 steps per block Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 128 steps per block
Number of branches Max. of 22 Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks) Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 22 steps per block Max. of 128 steps per block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. of 255 sequence steps Max. of 2k steps per block*1
steps No limit per step
Number of transition condition One ladder block only One ladder block only
sequence steps Max. of 255 sequence steps
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (8 timers) None

*1 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

System processing times

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
A1S(J)H A2SH L02SCPU, L02SCPU-P L02CPU, L02CPU-P
Active block processing 63.6s 48.2s 12.7s 8.5s
A
Inactive block processing 3.2s 2.4s 5.3s 3.8s
Nonexistent block processing 3.0s 2.3s 0.9s 1.2s
Active step processing 91.5s 69.3s 11.9s 8.7s
Transition condition processing associated 26.9s 20.4s 3.4s 2.0s
with active step
Transition With HOLD step 9.9s 7.5s 86.7s 66.1s
condition- designation
satisfied step
Normal step 35.9s 27.2s 106.9s 79.4s
processing
SFC END processing 200.8s 152.1s 67.5s 44.7s

APPX
Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison 193
 • L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT

SFC Program Specifications

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
SFC program Capacity Max. 58k bytes Max. 260k steps
(A3NCPU, A3ACPU, A3UCPU, (L26CPU, L26CPU-P, L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT)
A4UCPU)
(main program only)
Number of blocks Max. 256 blocks Max. 320 blocks
Number of SFC steps Max. of 255 steps per block Max. of 8192 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 512 steps per block
Number of branches Max. of 22 Max. of 32
Number of concurrently active steps Max. of 1024 steps (total for all blocks) Max. of 1280 steps (total for all blocks)
Max. of 22 steps per block Max. of 256 steps per block
(including HOLD steps)
Number of operation output sequence Max. of 255 sequence steps Max. of 2k steps per block*1
steps No limit per step
Number of transition condition One ladder block only One ladder block only
sequence steps Max. of 255 sequence steps
Step transition watchdog timer function Function exists (8 timers) None

*1 The maximum number of sequence steps per block depends on the instruction used for operation output or a note editing setting. The
number of steps (2k steps) indicated in the table applies when "Unite (United Note)" is selected for note editing. Note that 2k sequence
steps per block may not be secured when "Peripheral (Peripheral Note)" is selected. If note editing is not set, 2k sequence steps or more
per block may be secured depending on an instruction used.

System processing times

Item MELSAP- MELSAP3
A3ACPU(F), AnNCPU-F, L06CPU, L06CPU-P, L26CPU, L26CPU-P,
A3UCPU, A1SCPU L26CPU-BT, L26CPU-PBT
A4UCPU
Active block processing 57.0s 260.0s 7.0s
Inactive block processing 14.0s 45.0s 3.4s
Nonexistent block processing 4.0s 25.0s 0.6s
Active step processing 49.5s 355.0s 6.4s
Transition condition processing associated 29.5s 100.0s 1.6s
with active step
Transition With HOLD step 2.4s 13.5s 42.7s
condition- designation
satisfied step Normal step 17.0s 60.0s 52.0s
processing
SFC END processing 195.0s 285.0s 26.9s

APPX
194 Appendix 2 MELSAP-II and MELSAP3 Comparison
Appendix 3 Restrictions on Basic Model QCPU,
Universal Model QCPU, and LCPU and
Alternative Methods
This section describes the restrictions on use of SFC programs for the Basic model QCPU, Universal model QCPU, and
LCPU.

Function comparison
Item Basic Model QCPU, High Performance Model Alternative
Universal model QCPU, QCPU, Process CPU, Method
LCPU Redundant CPU, QnACPU
Step transition watchdog timer Not provided Provided Page 196 Step
Transition
Watchdog Timer
Replacement
Method
SFC operation mode Operation mode at block double START Not provided*2 Provided 
setting (Fixed to "WAIT")
Operation mode for transition to active Not provided Provided 
step (at step double START) (Fixed to "TRANSFER")
Fixed scan execution block setting Not provided Provided Page 197 Periodic
Execution Block
Replacement
Method
SFC control Forced transition LD TRn Not provided Provided 
instruction check instruction
AND TRn
OR TRn
LDI TRn
ANI TRn A
ORI TRn
LD BLm\TRn
AND BLm\TRn
AR BLm\TRn
LDI BLm\TRn
ANI BLm\TRn
ORI BLm\TRn
Active step change SCHG (d) Not provided Provided Page 199 Active
instruction Step Change
Instruction (SCHG)
Replacement
Method
Transition control SET TRn Not provided Provided Page 198 Forced
instruction SET BLm\TRn Transition Bit (TRn)
Replacement
RST TRn Method
RST BLm\TRn
Block switching BRSET (s) Not provided*3 Provided 
instruction
SFC program for program execution management Not provided Provided 
Program execution type setting Not provided*1 Provided 
(Fixed to "scan execution type")

*1 For the Universal model QCPU and LCPU, the execution type of the program can be set.
*2 For the following CPU modules, the operation mode at double block START cannot be set.
 Universal model QCPU other than the Q00UJCPU, Q00UCPU, Q01UCPU, and Q02UCPU, whose serial number (first five digits) is
"12052" or later
 LCPU other than the L02(S)CPU and L02(S)CPU-P, whose serial number (first five digits) is "15102" or later
*3 The instruction can be used with the Universal model QCPU whose serial number (first five digits) is "13102" or later.

APPX
Appendix 3 Restrictions on Basic Model QCPU, Universal Model QCPU, and LCPU and Alternative Methods 195
 Step Transition Watchdog Timer Replacement Method

Operation of step transition watchdog timer

The step watchdog timer measures the ON time of the special relay for step transition watchdog timer start (SM90 to SM99),
and when it exceeds the time set to the special register for step transition watchdog timer setting (SD90 to SD99), the
corresponding annunciator (F) set to any of (SD90 to SD99) is turned ON. The following figure shows a step transition
watchdog timer program.

Step transition watchdog timer replacement method

When performing the same operation as that of the step transition watchdog timer, create the following program at the
operation output.

APPX
196 Appendix 3 Restrictions on Basic Model QCPU, Universal Model QCPU, and LCPU and Alternative Methods
Periodic Execution Block Replacement Method

Operation of periodic execution block

A periodic execution block is executed in each scan where the specified execution interval has elapsed. The following figure
shows the operation performed when blocks 0, 1, 2, 10 and 11 are used and blocks 10 and 11 are set as the periodic
execution blocks.

Periodic execution block replacement method

When the execution interval measured by the timer in the sequence program reaches the set time, the specified block is
activated by the STOP/RESTART bit. When the set time is not reached, the block is in a stop status. To hold the output also
when the block is in a stop status, select "Change OUT instruction in specified block to SET instruction" or "Coil output held for
stop-time output mode".

APPX
Appendix 3 Restrictions on Basic Model QCPU, Universal Model QCPU, and LCPU and Alternative Methods 197
 Forced Transition Bit (TRn) Replacement Method

Operation by forced transition bit

The forced transition bit forcibly satisfies a transition condition. When the forced transition bits are used, the preset input
conditions can be ignored and the transition conditions can be satisfied in due order.

Forced transition bit replacement method

Describe any bit device in the transition condition, where it is desired to cause a forced transition, under the OR condition and
turn ON the bit device described under the OR condition to cause a forced transition.

APPX
198 Appendix 3 Restrictions on Basic Model QCPU, Universal Model QCPU, and LCPU and Alternative Methods
Active Step Change Instruction (SCHG) Replacement Method

Operation of active step change instruction

The active step change instruction deactivates the instruction-executed step and forcibly activates the specified step in the
same block.

Active step change instruction replacement method

Using a jump transition and selection branching, create a program that will cause a jump to the specified step when the
transition condition is established.

APPX
Appendix 3 Restrictions on Basic Model QCPU, Universal Model QCPU, and LCPU and Alternative Methods 199
 INDEX

B
Basic model QCPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

H
High Performance model QCPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
High-speed Universal model QCPU . . . . . . . . . . . 6

L
LCPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

M
MELSAP3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

P
Process CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Q
QCPU . . . . . . . . . . ...................... 6
QnACPU . . . . . . . . ...................... 6
QnCPU . . . . . . . . . ...................... 6
QnHCPU . . . . . . . . ...................... 6
QnPHCPU . . . . . . . ...................... 6
QnPRHCPU . . . . . . ...................... 6
QnUD(E)(H)CPU . . ...................... 6
QnUDPVCPU . . . . . ...................... 6
QnUDVCPU . . . . . . ...................... 6

R
Redundant CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

S
SFC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

U
Universal model Process CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Universal model QCPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

200
MEMO

201
 INSTRUCTION INDEX

A
AND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81,83,85
ANI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81,83,85

B
BMOV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
BRSET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

D
DMOV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

L
LD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81,83,85
LDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81,83,85

M
MOV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

O
OR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81,83,85
ORI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81,83,85

P
PAUSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

R
RST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94,99,103
RSTART . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

S
S(P).SFCSCOMR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
S(P).SFCTCOMR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
SCHG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
SET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94,99,103

202
MEMO

203
 REVISIONS
*The manual number is given on the bottom left of the back cover.
Revision date *Manual number Description
Dec., 1999 SH(NA)-080041-A Due to the transition to the e-Manual, the details of revision have been deleted.
to to
Jun., 2014 SH(NA)-080041-V
May, 2016 SH(NA)-080041-W Complete revision (layout change)
Sep., 2018 SH(NA)-080041-X Descriptions regarding the QnUDPVCPU is added.

Japanese manual number: SH-080023-AD

This manual confers no industrial property rights of any other kind, nor does it confer any patent licenses. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation cannot be held
responsible for any problems involving industrial property rights which may occur as a result of using the contents noted in this manual.

 1999 MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION

204
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205
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206 SH(NA)-080041-X
SH(NA)-080041-X(1809)MEE
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