“Networking Decision: Managed or Unmanaged Switches?“…
Unmanaged switches may be able to do the job in some applications, but managed switches deliver improved performance and cybersecurity.
People everywhere are spoiled by fast and reliable consumer-grade Ethernet connectivity, in both wired and Wi-Fi versions. But can basic networking devices be used directly for industrial applications? This article examines why industrial-grade devices should be used for automation networks, and specifically how to choose between managed or unmanaged switches for the task.
Read the article
Stepper Motors – White Paper
Stepper motors play an important role for motion control applications requiring more precision than standard variable speed motors, but not warranting the expense and complexity of servo motors.
For many applications, a stepper motor solution occupies the sweet spot of providing the required performance, but at a much lower cost than servo solutions. This white paper identifies the features and benefits of DC stepper motor solutions and introduces a newer high bus voltage style which makes the technology viable for many more applications.
Download FREE Stepper Motors White Paper
Now Available
NITRA Pneumatic Automation Link (PAL) System
NITRA PAL pneumatic solenoid valves start at $32.00
LUTZE Silflex® Servo Motor Cable
LUTZE servo cable starts at $2.59 per foot and is made in the USA
Schmersal 30mm Push Buttons
Starting at $18.00
Flowline Reflective Ultrasonic Level Sensors
Flowline EchoPod UG06 series starting at $712.00
Saginaw NEMA Enclosures
Starting at $34.00
IDEM Stand-Alone Non-Contact Switches
Starting at $218.00
Testing, Testing 1, 2, 3…
We?d like to hear from you about a new visual shopping tool that we?re testing. It?s a little different from shopping on our current web store and offers a more visual approach, which may or may not be something you?d prefer. We are calling it the Parts Explorer, and if it?s something our customers enjoy it could be used for more applications in the future. Check it out and give us your honest feedback by taking a short survey via the link on top of that page.
Check out the visual shopping tool
Do You Have a Great Application Story to Share?
Have you used an AutomationDirect product to improve a process or solve a problem? If so, tell us about it! Submit your application story online and if chosen for publication, you could receive a $1000 credit, a bag of AutomationDirect goodies, and be featured on our site.
Submit your application story
Supplier Profile: Saginaw Control & Engineering
If you visited the Baldauf family farm in Saginaw, Michigan years ago, you would have seen people busy tending to various crops and animals. Today you will see more than 350 employees assembling, fabricating, powder coating, welding, packaging, and shipping the electrical enclosures manufactured at the 331,000 sq. ft. Saginaw Control & Engineering (SCE) facility.
Learn more about Saginaw Control & Engineering Inc.
FREE Giveaway for YOU!
In honor of the Masters Tournament, we are giving away 20 sleeves of AutomationDirect golf balls (one sleeve per winner). Contest is open for approximately 1 week after the newsletter is sent and is open to residents of the U.S. only. Winner will be contacted via email. If you don?t win this time, don?t worry there will be a new and exciting giveaway each month.
Enter to WIN!