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October 30, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the powerful LS Electric XMC motion controller to provide full EtherCAT master motion control. With a blindingly fast processor (scan times as low as 5ns) and built-in support for 8 or 16 axes of EtherCAT-based motion control (depending on the model), the XMC controller can handle virtually any…

Early fault detection and simple plug-and-play field replacements In addition to the large amount of process data available cyclically, faults can be identified easily through diagnostic information messages. This includes device faults, such as memory or processor failures, or process faults like empty pipe detection. Comprehensive diagnostics reporting increases overall system reliability and boosts customer…

October 23, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added M12 field wireable connectors with additional cable size options from Murrelektronik. New 5-pin A-coded connectors are available for 4-8mm/26-18 AWG cable sizes, in axial or 90° male or female connector styles. New D-coded connectors offer 4-pin configurations for 4-8mm/26-18 AWG cable sizes, in axial or 90° male connector…

October 23, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the CITO StackFlow series of modular process valves.  This system of high-flow, robust components can stack together to form a valve bank assembly. Each module includes common inlets at each end and an outlet discharge at the bottom. Manual and solenoid valves are available, as well as distribution…

Industrial automation products can also be applied to unique applications, like the advanced control needed for a sophisticated escape room. Escape rooms are immersive adventure games where players solve puzzles to break out from a themed environment within a set time. While seemingly unrelated to industrial automation, a systems integrator (SI) leveraged expertise gained from…

October 9, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added more top-of-the-line Wera tool options to their continuously growing Tool and Test Equipment lineup. New tool sets include maintenance sets, a Joker self-setting/self-adjusting wrench set, a Tool-Check PLUS socket/driver bit set, and Kraftform Kompakt multi-bit screwdriver sets. Screwdriver additions include Kraftform Micro precision screwdriver sets, Kraftform Kompakt multi-bit…

October 9, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added Endress+Hauser intrinsically safe analog input isolators to provide cost-effective galvanic isolation for process instruments located in hazardous locations. This ensures that only a safe amount of energy resides in a potentially explosive atmosphere. Endress+Hauser RN22 0/4 to 20 mA input isolators are offered in 1-channel, 2-channel, or signal…

October 9, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added Crohm brand VFD brake resistors, which feature NEMA 1 enclosures and installed thermal switches. These resistors are offered in many popular resistance values from 3.7 ohms to 400 ohms and power ratings from 240 W to 18 kW to ensure a good match per your manufacturer’s recommendation. The…

Here are some of the typical continuous/analog level measurement methods, with a summary of their strengths and weaknesses: Ultrasonic level sensors: These are generally installed at the top of a vessel looking down into the product. They generate a periodic ultrasonic sound impulse and measure the echo’s return time to determine the distance to the…

Here are some of the typical discrete level detection methods, with a summary of their strengths and weaknesses: Float level switches : These simple devices provide an on or off signal as a liquid moves up or down. Some travel along a guide rod, while others just bob up or down on a cable, and either…

Detecting the level of a product or liquid in a vessel is required for many machinery and process applications, so designers need a working understanding of the available technologies and best practices. Manufacturing and processing equipment automation systems often need to detect the presence/absence, or even the exact level, of a material in a bin,…

AutomationDirect CLICK PLUS PLCs, when combined with stepper motors, make advanced motion control and edge integration simple for smaller systems. Electric motors provide the motive force for many types of machinery and equipment. Sometimes standard AC and DC motors are operated at fixed speed, and other times they are driven using a variable frequency drive…

In the manufacturing industry, companies are clamoring for products that can automate processes to increase efficiency. The safety and comfort of machines and their operators is also paramount, causing a rising demand for more protective workplace solutions. That’s why innovative solutions, such as programmable support arms, operator control systems and enclosures, are becoming more essential…

Big Rig Custom Shop Accelerates Automation into the Passing Lane “Less is more” and “function over form” are phrases often associated with the design of objects—anything from office supplies up to buildings or larger—to promote a concept of simplicity, clarity, and essential purpose. However, there are plenty of cases where most people would agree that…

September 25, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added LUTZE ELECTRONIC shielded or unshielded flexible control and signal cable. This industrial-grade multi-conductor cable is ideal for use in machines and machine tools, plant cabling, HVAC technology, assembly/production lines, process instrumentation, and industrial controls. These cables are 300V rated and are third-party evaluated by ECOLAB for resistance to…

September 25, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added a variety of new Metrol limit switches to their growing lineup of precision limit switches. These ultra-precise mechanical limit switches have a repeatability down to 0.5 microns (µm) and are some of the smallest switches/sensors available. Their tiny size allows them to be mounted in extremely tight locations….

September 25, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the RHINO PSE-S series power supplies which are fully encapsulated in ultra-compact, low-profile housings and ideal for space-limited applications. These cost-effective power supplies offer a wide input voltage range, up to 89% efficiency, and are available in 5, 12, 15, and 24 VDC output voltage options with up…

September 18, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added ProSense FSC series mechatronic digital flow sensors that monitor liquid media and provide flow sensing up to 50 GPM and temperature measurement up to 212°F. They feature a stainless steel construction, are available with 3/4”, 1”, or 1-1/2” FNPT process connections, and provide two analog, frequency, or switch…

September 11, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added Master Appliance heat guns, which are quality heating tools used extensively across various industries for tasks such as shrinking tubing, activating adhesives, bending plastics, thawing frozen pipes, circuit board manufacturing, and so much more. These heat guns deliver high temperatures quickly and efficiently and include various models to fit most applications….

September 11, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added more options to the ReeR MOSAIC safety controller family. The MOSAIC-M1S-USBC has all the features of the enhanced MOSAIC-M1S master controller module, including embedded digital inputs, OSSD outputs, and expansion capabilities, but also offers a USB-C programming port. The new ReeR MOSAIC MZERO controllers are simple standalone safety…

September 11, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added more 1- and 2-channel E-stop relays, light curtain control relays, motor standstill monitoring relays, and combination speed/standstill monitoring relays from Dold. These additions offer more wire termination options, including push-in cage clamps, and the new combination speed/standstill monitoring relays provide a more versatile motor monitoring solution. All Dold…

September 11, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new ProSense thermistor temperature sensors in a wide range of probe and installation styles. The 10K3 series sensors offer hex nipple probes, attached plug probes, lead wire transition probes, flange mount probes, bolt-on ring probes, cuttable probes, new bead and junction box probe styles, and more. They provide…

Because AC motors are essential workhorses for industry, designers need to understand their applications to make detailed selections, such as single-phase or three-phase styles. Electric motors are a fundamental force for creating powered motion in any type of equipment. Initially developed in the 1800’s and refined significantly over the years, electric motors are now available…

September 4, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the new Flowline LR80 EchoBeam® FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) radar level transmitter featuring Flowline’s 80 GHz radar technology that is unaffected by most media, processes, or environmental factors. Using the change in frequency between the transmitted and reflected signals, the EchoBeam level sensor can measure liquids up…

September 4, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new Penn Union power distribution blocks featuring a modular design that allows easy assembly into multi-pole block configurations. Penn Union blocks offer a rugged aluminum construction, dual ratings for aluminum and copper conductors, and are suitable for DIN rail or panel mounting. With amperage ratings up to 760A…

September 4, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new Endress+Hauser Cerabar PMP23 series hygienic pressure transmitters. These transmitters feature a compact stainless steel housing, a fully welded 1-1/2” sanitary tri-clamp process connection, and are approved for Food and Beverage applications. Select models offer IO-Link compatibility for easy setup, integration, and on-the-fly configuration changes. Cerabar hygienic transmitters…

A digital graphical human-machine interface is usually the best way for users to interact with any type of monitoring or control system, and industrial versions are specially designed to withstand challenging environments. For practically every type of machinery or equipment ever put into service, there has been a need for some type of operator interface…

Featured Products LS Electric XGB PLCs are advanced controllers geared for motion applications with high-level features, such as IEC programming, that can be beneficial in any automated system PLCs starting at $279 LS Electric L7C AC servo systems combine a high-performance servo motor with a servo amplifier (drive) to achieve accurate position, velocity, or torque…

August 28, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added Gladiator GR series DIN rail or panel mounted quad-port power receptacles. These receptacles provide convenient power outlets and are commonly used in electrical enclosures to temporarily power laptop computers and test equipment. The GR-REC4 consists of two NEMA 5-15R duplex receptacles, while the GR-REC4-GFCI includes one standard NEMA…

August 28, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new versions of the AchieVe WDW and WDN series wire ducts which provide easy wire management at great prices. These rugged, wide and narrow finger wall, rigid wire ducts are made of self-extinguishing UL 94 V-0 rated flame-retardant PVC material. AchieVe wire ducts feature convenient upper and lower…

August 28, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added a wide assortment of world-renowned Wiha tools to their ever-expanding Tool and Test Equipment lineup, including various types of standard, insulated, electric, and precision screwdrivers, multi-bit drivers, nutdrivers, standard and insulated t-handle hex keys, wing and flag handle torx keys, tool pouches, tool bags, tool backpacks, many tool…

August 28, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added IDEM universal gate boxes designed for machine guard doors that act as an integrated locking guard with a double tamper-resistant interlock mechanism. These boxes provide high-level RFID-coded interlocking and machine control in one unit. Capable of holding guards closed with up to 3,000N holding force, these boxes can…

August 28, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added general-purpose AC drives to the IronHorse brand. These new VFDs support three control modes, including V/Hz, slip compensation, and sensorless vector, and come in various voltage and horsepower ratings at a very affordable price. The 230 VAC models can support AC motors up to 20hp with 230 VAC…

Options for Open Industrial Programming Industrial automation designers now have a variety of ways to incorporate an open programming approach for their projects. Although industrial-grade digital technologies have been available for over five decades, much of that time the hardware and software has been specialized and even proprietary. This is at odds with a large…

August 21, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the STRIDE SE3 series PoE++ Ethernet switch that provides both power and Ethernet communication to connected devices, allowing even more savings in your network design. This switch will auto-detect the presence of a PoE enabled device and provide up to 240W of DC power along with Fast or…

August 21, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the BLOCK PM series mini power supplies which feature a compact form factor, excellent transient voltage protection, and an affordable price. They are robust and adaptable for a range of applications, offering performance and reliability without the higher cost of full-featured power supplies. The new BLOCK PM-0624-100-0 redundancy…

August 21, 2024 – AutomationDirect had added a wide array of vinyl electrical tapes and insulated mastic and splicing tapes from Plymouth Rubber®. Vinyl electrical tape is a high-quality, all-weather tape that easily applies to surfaces and withstands a wide range of temperatures. These tapes include versions that can be used as protective outer jackets…

August 21, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new WERMA eSIGN series LED signal towers that have the same advanced features as the original series but provide a white polycarbonate housing that offers a crisp, clean look.  These signal towers are available in 9- and 15-tier models, with select models offering IO-Link v1.1 compatibility. They offer…

August 14, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new SureMotion lighter-duty carriages and guides for linear motion applications. Carriage and guide systems are machine elements that move objects in a straight line with minimal friction or resistance. They are offered in two varieties: external carriages with wheels that ride outside the guide tracks and internal carriages with…

August 14, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the Murrplastik MP18 series cable/hose drag chains which are built from rugged polyamide (PA) and are available in various sizes with support for cables up to 15mm diameter. Drag chains are used to route cables/hoses to moving components while keeping them organized and protected. They help extend cable…

Modern PLCs and HMIs have empowered a big rig customization shop to create increasingly sophisticated automated lighting effects for their customers. Byline: Dustin Dickerson, Dickerson Custom Trucks “Less is more” and “function over form” are phrases often associated with the design of objects—anything from office supplies up to buildings or larger—to promote a concept of…

What is a Power Supply? Industrial power supplies are an integral part of manufacturing and automation. They convert AC power to reliable DC power for a wide range of equipment, such as PLCs, HMIs, relays, sensors, actuators, and drives.  By ensuring a consistent, clean DC power source, these power supplies significantly enhance the performance, reliability,…

The decision to purchase a high-performance power supply is often a balancing act between upfront costs and long-term benefits. While standard power supplies may be sufficient for basic operations, high-performance models offer a range of advanced features designed to enhance efficiency, reliability, and overall system performance. While the initial expense may be higher, it is…

August 7, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added a variety of new NITRA push-to-connect fittings. These fittings feature durable nickel-plated brass bodies, threads, and release sleeves. They have a maximum pressure rating of 300 psi and can withstand temperatures up to 175℉. Numerous fitting styles have been added, including male straight fittings, male elbows, branch tees,…

August 7, 2024 – AutomationDirect has released three new LS Electric XGB PLC models that provide advanced control at an even lower cost. Two 16-point 2-axis motion PLC units and a 14-point relay output model are now available. The 2-axis PLC versions support pulse/direction control from the embedded I/O, featuring 4 high-speed inputs and 2…

When it comes to industrial labeling, precision is important. Misplaced, peeling or torn barcode labels can make them unreadable to scanners, while poor ink quality can make them unreadable to the human eye. Inconsistent coloring can also jeopardize brand recognition. Operating amidst the rigors of an industrial environment, durability is critical, as well. The portable…

AutomationDirect has a long history of providing high quality industrial automation technology at affordable prices through the convenience of e-commerce. But their company is not just an online catalog retailer of controllers, HMIs, components, instrumentation, wiring solutions, and the like. The AutomationDirect websiteprovides a resource for engineers, offering product comparisons, training, technical support, system integration…

Protecting control systems from bad actors requires a holistic approach that includes technology, standards, and most importantly, a “never trust, always verify” attitude. By Tim Wheeler, Cybersecurity Manager, Automation Direct Industrial enterprises worldwide face ever greater numbers of cyberthreats, especially from malware and ransomware. According to global data and business intelligence platform Statista, last year,…

From high resolution graphics to more interconnectivity and mobility, the HMI has become instrumental to plant productivity. Around 40 years ago, operator interfaces on the factory floor consisted of manual push buttons, switches, and dials. More sophisticated versions might incorporate a few indicator lights that could flash or change color to communicate alerts sent by…

Ordering and receiving components for an industrial automation application can prove challenging at times. Many suppliers complicate the process by hiding list prices or determining what your “special” price should be, and simply getting a quote can take hours or days. Parts may be out of stock or saddled with extraordinary lead times. AutomationDirect offers…

IO-Link modules, sensors, and other automation field devices help designers architect intelligent and cost-effective digital solutions so they can easily connect with industrial edge data for monitoring and controlling equipment. Byline: Kevin Kakascik and Chris Kregoski, AutomationDirect Traditional hardwired input/output (I/O) works well for monitoring and controlling sensors, actuators, and other field-installed devices associated with…

Recent advances in micro-PLCs that support integrated motion, and also drive/controller devices, make it possible to take advantage of high-performance servo motor motion control without breaking the bank. By Chip McDaniel and Joe Kimbrell, AutomationDirect Servo motor motion control is a mainstay for many types of machinery and equipment. For example, this technology can be…

Kinetic art is a medium that incorporates movement and motion into physical objects. If you have ever considered automation to be more of an art than a science, this robotic sculpture is must-see. Byline: NGC Karen With a career focusing on mechanical engineering roles for medical devices, I have not followed a traditional artist’s trajectory….

July 31, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added metallic, printable ribbon, and craft paper tape labels to their selection of Epson LabelWorks PX series label printer cartridges. Epson LabelWorks label printers provide industrial-grade labeling solutions for a wide variety of applications. Metallic labels are great for barcode labels and asset identification applications. They provide a nameplate-like…

July 31, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the AchieVe LPPT series pressure transmitters which offer great value for general industrial applications. These pressure sensors feature a rugged, compact stainless steel construction, are ideal for space limited applications, and are extremely affordable. AchieVe pressure transmitters offer a male 1/4” NPT process connection, measuring ranges up to…

Starting Digital Transformation from the Edge While many operations personnel at production and manufacturing companies are aware that their automated equipment can be a source of valuable data for analytics and other purposes, far fewer companies are positioned to create the required IIoT infrastructure to access this information. Learn more PLCs Can Deliver Advanced Motion Control…

July 17, 2024 – New NextGen series enclosures include modular enclosure bays that can be bolted together to assemble a full freestanding enclosure with as many bays and doors to fit your specific application. Left and right bays with one side open and a center bay with both sides open are available. New freestanding disconnect…

July 24, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new Hammond wireways that are designed to house electrical cables and wires, keep them organized, and protect them from environmental contaminants or physical damage. The new CW series carbon steel lay-in wireways are available with a NEMA 1 rating featuring a removable screw cover with keyhole slots and…

July 24, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added M.G.M. Electric IEC standard and brake motors that are manufactured in Italy using state-of-the-art, high-quality processes and are rated for general-purpose and inverter duty. IEC motors provide the same power output as NEMA motors but have a smaller footprint and feature a lightweight aluminum construction. IEC standard motors…

July 24, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new LUTZE RJ45 shielded IDC field wireable connectors and adapters to their Wiring Solutions lineup. RJ45 IDC shielded field wireable connectors with 8-pole configuration provide quick and easy Cat6a connections to non-terminated cables allowing custom-built connections to fit your application. The RJ45-to-RJ45 8-pole bulkhead adapters can be installed…

July 24, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the new SQ series table lifting systems from Ergoswiss.  These lifting systems use electrically driven columns that allow the operator to reposition the height of a worktable, conveyor, etc., to meet their specific requirements. In doing so, the operator can perform their tasks in a more comfortable working…

July 17, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added hydraulic power units (HPUs), heat exchangers for HPUs, and hydraulic solenoid valves from Bucher Hydraulics, a well-respected name in the industry. Hydraulic power units contain a reservoir, pump/motor, filter, and all necessary controls to power a hydraulic system. They are offered in the single-phase powered M-series and three-phase…

July 17, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added LS Electric PHOX servo systems that operate with 24-80 VDC input power and accept a wide variety of control inputs.  These flexible systems are suitable for both single-axis use and for advanced multi-axis motion control systems. With output power from 100W to 300W, these four matched sets of…

July 17, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added the CM5-RHMI headless HMI which has all the powerful functionality of the C-more CM5 touch panel HMIs but without display size restrictions. This HDMI-enabled device works with televisions, monitors, projectors, and most any other HDMI display device of any size to display real-time operational data or messages. Or…

July 17, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new Saginaw Enviro-Therm® air-to-air heat exchangers that use the enclosure’s ambient air and either heat pipes or aluminum plate to transfer heat from inside the enclosure to the external environment. Since the ambient air is the cooling medium, the need for refrigerant is eliminated. Features include corrosion-resistant internal…

What do severe weather, industrial fire, hazard warnings, airport safety, and illuminating the Eiffel Tower have in common? They are all important ways that signaling technologies for machines and buildings made by Pfannenberg are being used to protect people, machines and the environment. When Otto Pfannenberg established his electrical equipment company in Hamburg, Germany in…

July 10, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added mechanical position indicators from Elesa.  The Elesa position indicators are mounted to the rotating shaft of industrial equipment or machinery and use direct drive roller counters to provide an accurate reading of its position. These rugged position indicators do not require electrical power and are ideal for situations…

July 10, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added NITRA CPS9E series cylinder position switches which are compact general-purpose switches designed to detect the position of a pneumatic cylinder’s magnetic piston. This feedback can be used by a control system to determine cylinder position, cycle count, and to confirm operation. These switches are manufactured specifically to fit…

July 10, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added Wall Lenk soldering irons and guns designed to join different metals to make a strong and permanent bond. Wall Lenk is a US-based company that has been manufacturing and providing top-quality soldering equipment for over 50 years. The new pencil-style soldering irons are compact and easy to use…

Industrial automation designers now have a variety of ways to incorporate an open programming approach for their projects. Although industrial-grade digital technologies have been available for over five decades, much of that time the hardware and software has been specialized and even proprietary. This is at odds with a large segment of the commercial market,…

June 26, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added di-soric OGU series photoelectric fork sensors featuring a rugged one-piece aluminum or die-cast zinc “U-frame” construction that assures constant alignment. The OGU series fork sensors offer IO-Link v1.1 compatibility, up to a 14kHz switching frequency, and fork openings from 5 to 250mm.  Four ready-to-run preset modes optimize the…

June 26, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added HydroMode WPT25 series pressure transmitters that are UL Classified NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and 372 for drinking water applications. They feature a rugged 316L stainless steel construction and provide reliable pressure measurement signals for a variety of applications, such as controls, data collection, and telemetry systems. The WPT25 series offers…

Open, close. Lock, unlock. On, off. Within industrial operations, the seemingly simple action of a switch has the power to keep a production line humming, prevent a potentially disastrous equipment accident or failure, or even save a life. With automated systems continuing to grow in scope and sophistication, so does awareness of the importance of…

The Evolution of Controls from Relay Logic to IEC Programming In this video, Doug Bell from Interconnecting Automation discusses the evolution of machine control from relays to the first PLC with ladder logic and now IEC programming. Watch the video Installing a Rock-Solid Automation Retrofit This electrical contractor relied on AutomationDirect PLC and HMI hardware and…

June 19, 2024 – AutomationDirect has added new DURApulse GS30 drives.  These high-performance drives support several control modes including sensorless vector control, closed-loop flux vector control, and torque control modes in a compact package. The GS30 series expands the DURApulse family by adding internal tension control loop expanded parameter sets for greater versatility, as well…