The mask is the key
EDWARDO, there are several instructions/commands in the AB instruction set for PLC5/SLC/ML and others using the same or similar instruction structure. Essentially, the mask is a way to prevent bits from a source location word from being copied to a destination word. In one example, the mask in the SQO instruction allows you to use the SQO to write data to some but not all of the bits of an output word. For instance, let's say you have 6 items you need to control with the SQO and you have to use it. There is no sense in tying up the other 10 bits of the 16 bit word, just so you can move data to the six. If it were not for the mask, you would have no choice.
Setting up the mask is simple. Place a one in the bit location that corresponds to the bit you want to effect, and a zero in all the other bit locations. This will translate to a value that will be used to contain the mask locations so it will show up in your instruction as a hexadecimal number. In some processors you have to use hex to put the number in the instruction. I personally use a storage register to hold the mask value, and that way I can access that location through the data table and use any form of number I like to set the mask. If you have more questions, feel free to ask.
Oh, BTW, the masked move, or MOV is the same idea as I described using the SQO example.