One of the best things about AutomationDirect, in my opinion, is our continuous focus on customer needs. We strive to go above and beyond for our customers, and we always appreciate feedback on how we’re doing and what products we may be lacking. Using surveys, reviews, forum posts, etc., we try to reach out as much as possible to see what we’re doing right and more importantly what we’re doing wrong. In fact, this week, a few of us will be headed to a PLC training class given by our training partner (Interconnecting Automation) to speak with students and get their impressions of our products and our company. These classes are great for face-to-face meetings with our customers who come from all across the country and even Canada. These students offer a wealth of feedback from many diverse industries and that information is extremely valuable to us. Through these classes, it’s possible I may have spoken to some of you already, but if not, please consider submitting your opinions, suggestions, and requests via our satisfaction surveys, online reviews, forum, or our product suggestion page to let us know how we can better serve your needs. Oh, and if you’re interested in hands-on in-person or even virtual PLC training, check out Interconnecting Automation’s website for information on upcoming classes.
This issue of NOTEBOOK is loaded with informative articles such as our Tech Brief which features a discussion on hydraulic system components (Download Now!). We have a great Cover Story on designing and building control panels and the User Solutions section has an interesting home DIY garage door application. The Application Stories section shows how the CLICK PLC and other AutomationDirect products help produce higher quality beer, and our Student Spotlight discusses how University of Massachusetts Amherst College of Engineering students are using the CLICK PLUS PLC and a StrideLinx VPN router to remotely monitor wind turbines. For information about exciting events happening in and around AutomationDirect, including some recent product and company awards, take a look at our Business Notes. In this issue there is also information on our newest products, such as Peninsular hydraulic cylinders, Datalogic smart vision sensors, new WEG CFW500 AC drive options, LS Electric L7P servo systems, and more. As always, the Break Room is stocked with fun brainteasers so see how many puzzles you can solve and compare your answers at www.automationnotebook.com