The new Productivity1000 stackable micro PLC is the super compact yet highly capable member of AutomationDirect’s Productivity controller family. The P1000 is packed with many of the features of the Productivity series but housed in a smaller, slimmer design to provide space, budget and time savings.
The P1-540 CPU ($169) has a 50Mb memory and features four onboard communications ports including micro USB, serial RS-485, serial RS-232 and Ethernet 10/100Mbps connections. Supported communications protocols include EtherNet/IP®, Modbus RTU/TCP and ASCII. The micro USB 2.0 (type B) port provides a plug-and-play connection for programming, online monitoring and firmware upgrades.
The 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port is used for programming, monitoring, and firmware upgrades as well as client/server connections (Modbus TCP, EthernNet/IP scanner and adapters). A microSD card slot accepts a standard microSD card to provide up to 32GB of data logging capacity. The CPU’s built-in Web server allows users to view, download and delete data log files from any browser. One RS-232 and one RS-485 serial port can communicate via Modbus RTU or ASCII protocols for local networking or device interfaces.
The Productivity1000 requires no base or backplane and can easily be expanded with up to 8 snap-on I/O modules. The P1000 system can support up to 128 discrete I/O points or 32 analog I/O channels total. The I/O modules are easily added or removed using the single latch mechanism on the topside of each module. The P1-01AC ($37) power supply snaps onto the CPU and provides isolated power to the P1000. Any combination of I/O modules may be installed without power budget considerations. Starting at $33.50, the 14 I/O modules capture and control a wide range of field signals, including up to 8-point DC I/O, 16-point relay outputs, and analog voltage, current or temperature. Each I/O module includes a QR (Quick Response) code which can be scanned from any smart phone or tablet to get the latest specifications for that module.
The free downloadable ProductivitySuite programming software features tag name-based programming for better documentation management and integration with HMIs. Productivity1000 gives users the freedom to define user tags with no limits or fixed boundaries. With tag name-based programming, there are no pre-defined, fixed memory maps and no wasted, unused memory allocations.
The software can perform I/O hardware auto-discovery and configuration with the option to be manually configured by the user using easy drag and drop module placement. Powerful processes in the programming environment reduce development time; timesavers include combined ladder logic and function block-style programming, task management that minimizes scan time, advanced instructions that simplify complex tasks, and an exhaustive HELP file that covers both hardware and software topics.
The complete line of Productivity1000 components can be seen at www.automationdirect.com/P1000.
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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 same-day 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.
*Originally published: April 17, 2018