: You can manually trigger bits for testing purposes without changing the physical wiring, which is essential for pre-commissioning. 4. Transitioning Legacy Programs Version 8.86 acts as a "bridge" for older hardware.
It is compatible with a vast range of MELSEC controllers, including the Q, L, FX, A, and AnS series .
If the conversion fails with "Illegal Device," you must resurrect GX Developer 8.86 (via VM) to re-save the project as a .GXW file.
: If you have older DOS-based projects, you can import them into GX Developer to modernize the documentation and logic. gx developer 8.86
The software often includes or supports GX Simulator , allowing for offline testing of program logic without needing physical hardware.
compatible PLC/HMI all-in-one controllers. While it is a "lite" or older generation software compared to the modern GX Works3, it remains a standard for programming FX-series clones and integrated industrial controllers. Coolmay PLC HMI All in one Automation Solution Expert Key Capabilities & Compatibility Device Support : It is natively compatible with the Mitsubishi FX-series
: Create a custom list of specific bits and words you want to track simultaneously across different program sections. : You can manually trigger bits for testing
Do not install version 8.86 on Windows 11 or the latest Windows 10 22H2 without a Virtual Machine. The environment check will likely fail. Use VMware Workstation Player or VirtualBox with a Windows 7 guest OS.
Before diving into code, ensure your environment is configured for this specific version.
In the software world, not all updates are created equal. Sometimes a specific version hits a "sweet spot" of features and stability. Version 8.86 is often cited in engineering forums and technical manuals because it was one of the final major builds before the architecture shifted significantly toward the GX Works platform. It offered robust support for the Q-series PLCs (which were the industry standard at the time) while maintaining compatibility with the aging A-series. For many, 8.86 represents the pinnacle of the classic interface before GUI overhauls changed the workflow. It is compatible with a vast range of
Look for the MELSEC GX Developer 8 Operating Manual (PDF ID: SH-080366). It contains the full list of function blocks and instruction set specifically for version 8.86.
Users can develop logic using Ladder Diagram (LD) , Instruction List (IL) , and Sequential Function Chart (SFC) .
| Feature | GX Developer 8.86 | GX Works2 | GX Works3 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | A, QnA, FX, L | Q, L, FX | iQ-R, iQ-F (R series) | | User Interface | Classic Menu/Toolbar | Ribbon (Office 2010 style) | Modern Ribbon + Tabbed views | | Structured Text | Basic (No inline ST) | Excellent | Advanced (OOP features) | | Label Programming | Limited (Global only) | Full (Global + Local) | Full + FB instances | | Simulation | GX Simulator (Basic) | GX Simulator2 (Better) | GX Simulator3 (High speed) | | File Extension | .GPP | .GXW | .GX3 | | Learning Curve | Steep (requires manual) | Moderate | Moderate |
In the world of industrial automation, few names command as much respect as Mitsubishi Electric. For decades, their programmable logic controllers (PLCs) have powered factories, assembly lines, and processing plants across the globe. Central to the success of these PLCs is the software used to program them. While the modern industry has moved toward the unified suite, there remains a dedicated and substantial user base for an older, iconic iteration: GX Developer 8.86 .