AutomationDirect has added a new line of distributed I/O system components to its product offering. The new Protos X™ expansion I/O allows you to easily add low-cost I/O points to your programmable logic controller (PLC) or PC-based control system without investing in additional controllers.
Designed to save space, a single Protos X distributed I/O system can save users up to 74% in I/O footprint inside an enclosure when compared to other I/O systems. 
The small form factor allows installation directly on or near equipment and connects directly to typical PLCs, including all the Productivity3000, DirectLOGIC, Do-more and CLICK series. Allowing precise I/O count distribution, Protos X supports up to 255 modules and is scalable from 2 to 4,080 points.
Bus couplers (interface modules) are available in Modbus RTU and TCP versions allowing connection of up to 64 terminals per assembly, for a maximum 255 terminals total. Serving as the link between the Protos X I/O and the system’s main controller, the Modbus RTU/ASCII slave bus coupler communicates via a 9-pin D-sub RS-485 port; the TCP server bus coupler communicates to the client via an RJ45 Ethernet port.
Starting at $34, Protos X distributed I/O system terminals (I/O modules), in two, four, eight and 16-point (discrete only) versions, are the connection to real world devices and offer 12 discrete input and output terminals; 18 analog input and output terminals include 4-20 mA, +/-10VDC, Pt100 RTD, as well as Type J and K thermocouples.
Power feed terminals, starting at $18, are available in 24VDC and 120-230 VAC styles to add or change supply power to the terminal power bus; an available 24VDC power distribution terminal with 8 connection points (24V and 0V for each connection) provides access to the integrated 24VDC terminal power bus.
Easy-to-use configuration software (available as a free download) shows the auto-configured Modbus addressing, sets IP (Ethernet) address and communications parameters (serial). Users can also set/disable Watchdog timers, reset bus couplers and more; a communication cable ($56) is available for configuration of the bus couplers. Available bus expansion coupler terminals enable expansion of terminal assemblies with up to 31 couplers in a group.
Protos X I/O components are backed with a one-year warranty. Learn more about the Protos X distributed I/O system at www.automationdirect.com/protos-x.
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About AutomationDirect:
In business since 1994, AutomationDirect is a distributor offering thousands of industrial automation products for electrical control systems, including PLCs, operator interfaces, AC drives, motors, stepper systems, sensors, motor controls, enclosures and more. Their prices are typically well below the list price of more traditional automation companies because of their business model and focus on efficiency and the majority of their products are stocked for fast shipping. Plus, get free two-day delivery on orders over $49; some limitations apply. For more information, contact them at 800-633-0405 or visit www.automationdirect.com.