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Newsletter: Volume 19 – Issue 1

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Let’s start 2017 off with an article that focuses on the top trends in automation this year.  Top industry professionals give their option on what trends to watch for and why.  Also, in this month’s issue read an article which helps you find which controller fits your application. This article will help you understand the application so you can specify just what’s needed without going overboard. Last but not least check out this cool video detailing the STEAMWORKSSM as the 2017 FIRST Robotics Competition game (By the way, members of our graphics team did the animation for the competition video). Hope you enjoy this month’s newsletter!

What to watch for in automation in 2017

The new year brings with it several changes in industrial control. Are you ready? What about your automation? Is interconnectivity still important? Should you consider digital sensors? What about wireless monitoring and mobile access? This article from Plant Services points out trends to consider for 2017. Read more about trends in automation in 2017

Six years and counting

Thanks to our customers, AutomationDirect is on a roll. January 2017 marks the sixth consecutive year that Automation World readers have voted for their “FIRST TEAM” suppliers in PMMI Media Group’s 2016 Leadership in Automation program. We are honored that readers have named AutomationDirect as First Team members in two categories. Read more about the FIRST TEAM

Linear Motion Automation Notes

Factories use linear motion for applications such as pick and place operations, CNC lasers and routers or wherever super-precise and accurate positioning is required. Whether you need a single axis of motion, two or even three axes of motion, consider linear actuators for smooth and accurate conversion of rotary to linear motion. Learn more about linear motion
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What Controller Fits Your Application?

In today’s industry, there are many choices for control solutions, such as programmable logic controllers, programmable automation controllers, and industrial PCs. With all the choices, it takes time to determine which controller works best. Understanding the application is important in order to specify just what’s needed without going overboard. Find out which controller fits your application

Specifying Fiber Optic Sensors

There is a plethora of presence sensors on the market; photoelectric, capacitive, inductive, the list goes on and on. The abundance complicates specifying the right one for your application due to varying strengths and weaknesses. In this blogpost, we provide details on things to consider when specifying fiber optic sensors for various applications. Get help specifying fiber optic sensors

Video – Get steamed up!

As a proud sponsor of FIRST® robotics in Forsyth County Schools, we are excited to announce STEAMWORKSSM as the 2017 FIRST Robotics Competition game. Check out this cool video detailing the competition. (By the way, members of our graphics team did the animation for the competition video). Visit the FIRST site to learn more about FIRST robotics
AutomationDirect.com – 3505 Hutchinson Road, Cumming GA 30040

Additional Resources

PLC Handbook

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Understanding Discrete & Analog I/O

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