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Newsletter Volume 26 Issue 05

From Ethernet to EtherCAT and Beyond
Once upon a time (think 1980s), Ethernet was a relatively specialized computer connectivity technology, administrated by experienced gurus under highly-controlled office settings. Since then, technology and performance have advanced incredibly, and much of the world?s population uses wired and wireless (Wi-Fi) Ethernet in their everyday lives. 
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AutomationDirect Named Top Automation Distributor 2024 by Manufacturing Outlook Magazine
Procuring industrial automation parts often unveils hassles tied to fluctuating costs, intricate terms and conditions and extended delivery timelines. This journey takes a decidedly different turn for customers of AutomationDirect. “For us, it’s not about the price tag on our products but the whole package. Our top-notch services and industry-leading customer support go a long way in proving the real value of choosing AutomationDirect.” states Jeff Payne, Director of Business Development.
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Now Available

Seifert SoliTherm 120 and 230 VAC Thermoelectric Coolers
SoliTherm units start at $583.00

Helukabel TOPFLEX® 600 Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Cable
Starting at $2.61 / ft.

Datalogic PowerScan 960X Handheld Barcode Scanners
PowerScan scanner systems start at $871.00


Leuze 18mm Front/Bottom Threaded Rectangular Photoelectric Sensors
Starting at $62.00

More WAGO Pro2 Series Power Supplies
Starting at $185.00

SJT Industries SIM Timing Pulleys 
Starting at $17.25


More Stego Enclosure Heater Options
Starting at $16.75

ifm efector Barcode Scanners, Cameras, and Vision Sensors 
Starting at $1,436.00

WEG Premium Efficiency Rolled Steel Motors and Brake Motors
Starting at $458.00


Mining Sunbeams ? Solar Thermal Leverages the Sun for Producing Heat Energy
For certain applications in the right geographic areas, solar thermal can be a cost effective and low carbon way to supply large-scale heat energy. Flemming Jorgensen, of Jorgensen Thermal Solutions, describes how he used AutomationDirect PLCs to implement this type of project at a remote mining facility in northern Mexico.
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XBG PLC Configuration Tool Quiz
Take the XGB PLC configuration quiz for a chance to win one! One winner will be chosen from all participants and receive a complete EtherCAT PLC including power supply, CPU, 4-axis EtherCAT module, I/O breakout module, and cable.
Enter the contest!


Using the LS-Electric XGB PLC and iX7 Servo Systems for EtherCAT®-based Servo Motion Control
Modern multi-axis servo systems require a network for coordination of all the various movements. EtherCAT provides a high-speed cyclic mode that can update all the servo systems on the network within a few milliseconds. EtherCAT multi-axis servo systems can be created using the LS Electric XGB PLC in conjunction with LS Electric iX7 servo systems for high-performance multi-axis control in demanding applications.
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New Product Giveaway!
Enter your info for a chance to win 1 Wiha 3-piece pliers and cutters set valued at approx. $72.00. You will also be entered to win 1 of 5 drill bit sets. Contest is open for approximately 1 week after the newsletter is sent and is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only. Winner will be contacted via email. 
Enter to WIN!