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April 1st, 2026-AutomationDirect has added CHANNELLOCK® American-made pliers and tool sets are engineered for tradespeople who demand reliability on every job. V-jaw pliers offer superior contact on pipes, tubing, and round stock thanks to their unique geometry. With laser-hardened teeth, PERMALOCK® fasteners, and a slip-resistant undercut tongue-and-groove design, these pliers deliver extreme holding power. For…

April 1st, 2026-AutomationDirect now offers di-soric 8, 12, 18, and 30mm tubular and 12mm rectangular ultrasonic proximity sensors that are designed for contactless distance measurement and offer IO-Link with ISDU support, a rugged nickle plated brass construction, high IP67 protection ratings, and sensing distances up to 6,000mm. ISDU (Indexed Service Data Unit) provides on-demand exchange…

March 25, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added IronHorse ACM Series AC drives provide basic V/Hz and sensorless vector control for low-horsepower motors when only single-phase power is available.  These VFDs accept a 120 VAC or 230 VAC single-phase power source and control motors from 1/8 to 3 horsepower. 5 digital inputs, 2 relay outputs, 2…

March 25, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added Shaviv deburring tool sets offer complete turnkey solutions for professionals who need multi-material capability right out of the box. The premium 21-piece (154-00024) and 12-piece sets (154-90085) feature ergonomic universal handles, extendable blade holders, and a comprehensive selection of rotating B- and E-series blades—ensuring you have the right…

March 25, 2026-AutomationDirect now offers Define Instruments digital panel meters, signal conditioners, and temperature transmitters that feature versatile measurement options and easy configuration. The Merlin series digital panel meters accept current, temperature, voltage, potentiometer, and pulse inputs and provide advanced scaling, linearization, and optional analog retransmission or relay outputs. A bright LED display, IP65 front…

March 25, 2026-AutomationDirect now offer Datalogic Smart-VS vision sensor family models with expanded features. The new Smart-VS Plus sensor includes all the features of the standard Smart-VS sensor, including Ethernet communication and several I/O points, but adds additional object classifications for a total of 3 classes, which is useful when Good/No Good/No Object tests are…

Getting with the Object-Oriented Program Object-oriented programming concepts have become an important part of modern industrial automation, helping streamline PLC and HMI development. The introduction of user-defined instructions (UDIs) across the AutomationDirect Productivity PLC platform gives developers a new way to encapsulate logic and data. This approach accelerates development, promotes reuse of proven code, and…

March 11, 2026 – AutomationDirect now offers RuB manual ball valves that bring unmatched versatility, performance, and reliability to fluid and air control applications. Featuring a lifetime warranty, the available offering spans everything from compact micro and mini valves, perfect for tight space OEM builds, to high flow industrial options engineered for demanding environments. General…

March 11, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added Peter Electronic VSII Plus soft starters which provide durability, a high number of starts/hour, and a simple setup for standard or light-duty applications up to 105A. Quick configuration is achieved by adjusting the positions of 3 trim pots, and status LEDs indicate the units’ operational status. Built-in DIN-rail…

The AutomationDirect BRX PLC incorporates capabilities essential for this software services company to create a reliable SCADA solution tailored for municipalities. Massive metropolises and humble hamlets both depend on reliable water and wastewater treatment facilities. In the United States, some estimates indicate that relatively few large systems may serve about 80% of the population, while…

March 5, 2026 – AutomationDirect now offers STRIDE PRO Unmanaged+ industrial Ethernet switches which are a step up from basic unmanaged switches, adding efficient network optimization by seamlessly integrating essential features such as IGMP snooping (traffic prioritization), port monitoring, port alarms, VLAN support, and more. IGMP snooping ends network flooding by transmitting data only to…

March 4, 2026 – AutomationDirect now offers Sensy 2172L series single point, 5510 series shear beam, and 2782 series tension/compression load cells that deliver flexible solutions for weighing and force measurement. They are ideal for applications ranging from small packaging scales to rugged industrial tanks and conveyor systems. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum or stainless steel,…

March 4, 2026 – AutomationDirect now offers Schmersal PROTECT PSC1 safety controller which is a compact safety control system with scalable I/O from a trusted leader in machine safety. E-stops, light grids, and almost any safety device can be monitored with ease, and the universal interface ensures instant connection to every standard fieldbus. The base…

February 25, 2026 – AutomationDirect now offers Penn-Union split bolt connectors, power bars, service post connectors, and more. Split bolts deliver a secure, long‑lasting connection for two conductors in a wide range of power distribution applications. With options engineered to handle multiple wire gauges and material combinations—including CU‑CU, CU‑AL, and AL‑AL—they offer the flexibility installers…

Moisture, dust, chemicals, physical impact—just a few environmental factors that can wreak havoc on electrical and electronic components. For the past 40 years, Fibox Enclosure Systems has been designing and manufacturing thermoplastic enclosures that protect equipment in even the most hostile and hazardous environments. Fibox leads the industry in UL-listed, NEMA-rated non-metallic polycarbonate enclosures that…

February 18, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added stripping, cutting, and crimping tools from Weidmuller which are designed to streamline wiring tasks with greater speed, precision, and consistency. The STRIPAX PLUS 2.5 combines cutting, stripping, and ferrule crimping in one compact tool, allowing complete terminations with minimal motion. Linked ferrule strips (sold separately) feed automatically into…

Overcoming Problematic Installs with Wireless I/O While some industrial monitoring and control systems are easily connected to their associated field devices, the harsh reality is that many installations are much more complicated. Input/output (I/O) signaling over long distances, especially where there is not a convenient wiring path, is a costly proposition. Learn more Supplier Profile…

Headless HMIs slash costs, simplify installation, and unlock creative display options ranging from handheld tablets to wall-mounted scoreboards. By Bobby Thornton, AutomationDirect On a traditional factory floor, operators usually monitor and control equipment using classic panel-mounted touchscreen human-machine interfaces (HMIs). But to meet the demands of a modern facility, designers need technologies to more effectively…

February 11, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added TE Connectivity Snap-on markers which are “C” profile wire labels designed for quick and easy application onto wires that are already terminated. These markers can be applied or changed without disconnecting the wire, offering significant time savings compared to on-site printing or handwriting for small jobs. Each marker…

Highlights With every new year comes the obligatory “top technology predictions” from industry pundits who look into their crystal ball to figure out the future. Well, we’re doing it too. In this issue of NOTEBOOK, we ring in the new year by enlisting the help of Bill Makley, principal at BMC Consulting, who, for over…

For decades, the HMI took the form of a panel-mount device at the machine or on the front of the cabinet. It was a natural fit for the era in which most factories, plants, and facilities were populated by discrete equipment, controlled locally. As facility design and usage models have changed, however, users seek the…

AI isn’t new to manufacturing. Vision systems can already spot defects; predictive maintenance models can keep bearings from failing unexpectedly; and scheduling software can adjust production on the fly. What’s changing in 2026 is the reach and capabilities of these tools as well as their potential to expand returns on a plant’s investment in the cost,…

The recent introduction of user defined instructions in AutomationDirect PLCs provides another tool for accelerating PLC and HMI development. By Tim Ensminger, AutomationDirect Many industrial automation products and practices have been developed as more robust versions of commercial-grade technologies. As microprocessors, memory, and communications hardware and software have evolved throughout the information technology (IT) world,…

After running for decades on its original electro-hydraulic drive, Timber Lake Playhouse’s revolving stage system received significant behind-the-scenes AutomationDirect upgrades in 2007 and 2025. By Ryan Poethke, ShowFab Timber Lake Playhouse (TLP), adjacent to its namesake body of water and surrounded by woods and acres of farmland beyond, has been operating as a professional, non-profit…

Specialty equipment and mechanical contractors, in this case a cryogenic systems solutions provider, can extend their project delivery capability by partnering with experienced automation systems integrators. By Kyle Lamb, Quantum Automation Extreme cold temperature and freezing techniques are essential for many industries, but some of the most demanding applications are found in the scientific, research,…

What is a circuit protection? Industrial circuit protection is a foundational element of every electrical and control system. Whether a panel powers PLCs, sensors, motor starters, or VFDs, each circuit must be safeguarded against overloads, short circuits, and other fault conditions that can damage equipment or put personnel at risk. Proper overcurrent protection ensures that…

February 4, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added Endress+Hauser Picomag magnetic‑inductive flowmeters with EPDM seals that enable additional applications beyond those supported by the existing FKM seals. Picomag series flow meters measure conductive liquids (≥10 μS/cm) up to 198 GPM, and simultaneously monitor flow, temperature, and volume. They include two configurable I/O points supporting analog, pulse,…

February 4, 2026, – AutomationDirect has added P1-04TEPS and P2-08TEPS modules provide solid state relay options for the Productivity1000 and Productivity2000 PLC families. These modules are ideal for applications requiring extensive or extremely fast load switching and offer longer lifespans, greater reliability, near-instantaneous switching, and less electrical noise than electromechanical relays due to their lack…

February 4, 2026 – AutomationDirect now offers WIKA NSF-certified mechanical pressure gauges deliver precision and reliability for drinking water and food and beverage applications. The lineup includes dry and liquid-filled mechanical pressure gauges with lead-free wetted parts, as well as manual needle valves for instrument isolation and flow control. WIKA pressure gauges meet NSF/ANSI 61…

Free Online PLC Training – No Purchase Necessary As automation expands, understanding electrical control systems is increasingly important. To meet growing demand for PLC knowledge, we developed a free online training program available to anyone, anytime. This course covers PLC fundamentals and their application in industrial processes, as well as specifics for our PLC offerings…

January 21, 2026- AutomationDirect now offers Wera foam tray tool sets that provide utmost organization and accessibility, with each tray featuring a durable foam construction, clear tool outlines, and color-coding for quick identification and inventory control. Modular sizing allows seamless integration into drawers, tool chests, or mobile workstations. Options include insulated and precision screwdriver trays,…

January 21, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added Klemsan TDS series timer relays that offer a comprehensive selection for various timing needs, including single-function timer relays for dedicated timing tasks, multi-function timer relays that provide flexibility with up to 10 adjustable modes, and special-function timer relays tailored for applications such as motor control and sequential switching….

In industrial automation, detecting the presence, position or quality of objects across production and logistics sectors is critically important. Factory floors and automated warehouses depend on it for safer operations, not to mention better efficiency and process control. Enter Datasensing, which builds on more than 50 years of sensor expertise rooted in Italy’s automation history….

January 14, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added more Epson LabelWorks heat-shrink tube labels that offer a durable, professional, and permanent labeling solution. The tubing shrinks tightly around wires, providing both clear identification and protective insulation, which helps reduce maintenance errors and downtime. Designed for easy printing with Epson LabelWorks PX printers, they save time, improve…

January 14, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added more WEG CFW500 washdown AC drives that increase the horsepower offering of this series—up to 30 hp for the 460 VAC models and up to 20 hp for the 230 VAC models. These drives are manufactured by WEG, a well-known and trusted brand in VFDs. CFW500 drives are…

January 14, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added more innovative terminal block solutions which are designed for flexibility, safety, and space efficiency. New fuse holder options offer a fully enclosed design for 5 x 20 mm or 5 x 25 mm glass fuses up to 10A, with jumper capability for streamlined power distribution. Triple-level multi-function fuse…

January 14, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added more Flowline LR80 series EchoBeam FMCW radar level sensors that increase sensing ranges up to 393.7 ft (120 m) for liquids and 196.8 ft (60 m) for bulk solids. These sensors are built on Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) technology and deliver reliable, high-precision level measurement. They offer…

January 14, 2026 – AutomationDirect has added Hammond Aluminum Command Enclosure (ACE) series HMI enclosures which offer a versatile solution for housing your HMI devices. Designed for maximum flexibility, these enclosures feature removable front panels for easy machining, quarter-turn latches for secure closure, and oil-resistant gaskets for superior protection. Constructed from durable Type 5052 H-32…

Each day, New Zealanders are the first to see the sunrise due to the country’s location west of the international date line. But that’s just the beginning of the country’s claims to fame. The first commercial and legal bungee jump was invented and performed there, and New Zealand was the first country to grant women…

Edward Ashcroft was a pioneer in pressure measurement instrumentation. He started the company in 1852 after acquiring the U.S. patent rights for the Bourdon tube from its inventor Eugène Bourdon. This milestone led to the widespread adoption of the “Ashcroft Gauge” in American industry and laid the foundation for the company’s continuous growth and innovation….

Point-to-point wireless I/O technologies provide a helpful solution for efficient low-I/O-count remote connectivity. While some industrial monitoring and control systems are easily connected to their associated field devices, the harsh reality is that many installations are much more complicated. Input/output (I/O) signaling over long distances, especially where there is not a convenient wiring path, is…

December 17, 2025 – AutomationDirect has added Dold RK 6929 compact safety relay extension modules from the SAFEMASTER series. They amplify and multiply safety relay outputs while providing galvanic isolation between control and power levels. They support applications requiring safety levels up to Cat. 4 / PL e or SIL 3 and are ideal for…

AutomationDirect has added additional FATH components for T-slotted aluminum rail including sleek casters with lifting foot options for mobility and stability, an ergonomic dual monitor workstation, monitor mount extensions, and a wide array of tool hooks, holders, and accessories that streamline organization and workflow. From cup holders to storage trays and fastening hardware, every component…

AutomationDirect has added AchieVe FBM series rectangular photoelectric sensors that deliver reliable performance at a great price for a wide range of industrial applications. They feature a rugged thermoplastic construction, offer options for visible red LED, pinpoint LED, or infrared light emission, and provide sensing distances of up to 10 meters. Offered in diffuse with…

AutomationDirect has added Murrplastik solid corrugated tubing which provides protection, reliability, and adaptability for wire and cable in demanding environments. The EW-PAB series delivers both chemical and impact resistance for static installations under medium to high mechanical loads. Crafted from modified polyamide 6, this solid-wall tubing is flame-retardant, low-smoke, and engineered for long-term resilience in…

AutomationDirect has added WEG Electric CWBN series contactors that are IEC-compliant and NEMA-rated, delivering robust, dependable performance in a compact IEC-style housing. They are offered at a highly competitive price, in ratings from 2 to 50 hp (95A) at 460 VAC, and meet or exceed the electrical requirements defined by NEMA ICS 2 standards for…

AutomationDirect.com has added Quadritalia OK series 2200mm modular enclosure base components and accessories that include vertical frame rail sets, doors, side panels, rear panels, and subpanels, that are engineered to fit seamlessly together, building a highly adaptable enclosure for industrial, electrical, and data applications. Additional accessories are available to improve enclosure functionality and installation flexibility. These…

16 Tips for an Effective HMI When designing an effective human-machine interface (HMI) system, every screen, button and graphic matters. This article, “16 Tips for an Effective HMI”, offers a clear and practical roadmap—from layout planning and color usage to alarm handling and usability testing—to help you create an HMI that’s intuitive, efficient and reliable….

AutomationDirect now offers Klemsan slim interface relays which feature a highly compact 6.2mm-wide design in a durable, self-extinguishing housing. These high-performance relays are engineered for long life and are ideal for space-constrained control panels and automation systems. They offer flexible integration across various applications with support for a wide range of coil voltages (12 to…

AutomationDirect has added Halex liquid-tight metallic and non-metallic fittings which ensure a secure bond between conduits and enclosures, delivering a dependable seal that protects against moisture, oil, and contaminants. Available in trade sizes from 3/8 inch to 2 inch in both straight and 90-degree configurations, these fittings come with insulated and non-insulated options. Reusable components…

AutomationDirect.com has added Pfannenberg PYRA series custom traffic light systems which consist of pre-wired bases, industrial traffic light elements, and signal horns that can be assembled into a custom multi-tier indicator. PYRA LED traffic light bases are pre-wired for a 1-to-4 stage visual traffic light using assorted colored light elements (red, green, yellow, or blue) or for…

AutomationDirect has added ProSense HUM series humidity sensors provide reliable temperature and relative humidity (RH) measurements for HVAC, cleanroom, and general industrial applications. They offer versatile mounting options and wide measurement ranges (-4 to 140 deg F, 0 to 99.9% RH), with select models providing a seven-segment display for quick, at-a-glance monitoring. Duct mount sensors include…

AutomationDirect now offers GT Line of premium tool storage solutions which are designed for professionals who demand durability, organization, and comfort on the job. Crafted from tough polyester canvas, GT Line tool bags feature a sophisticated compartment system that ensures effortless transport and efficient organization with a rigid-bottom design for stability and protection for your…

AutomationDirect has added Wiha foam tray tool sets which offer utmost organization and accessibility, with each tray featuring durable tri-layer foam construction with clear tool outlines and printed labels for quick identification and inventory control. Modular sizing allows seamless integration into drawers, tool chests, or mobile workstations. Options include standard and insulated screwdriver trays, plier…

The right surge suppression technologies help protect valuable equipment and digital systems from electrical surges, while ensuring designs comply with regulatory requirements. Electrical surges represent a persistent yet often underestimated threat to today’s technologically advanced commercial and industrial facilities. In this Automation World December 2025 article titled Industrial Surge Protection: Essential Technologies and Installation Standards…

Industrial motion control is used to operate a variety of apparatuses, including gripping, transporting, and moving mechanisms on small machines, plus multi-axis robotics, large web handling systems, and much more. This overview explains the key concepts of motion control systems. In an industrial automation context, the term “motion control” usually refers to using an electric…

Every workplace shares a common goal to keep employees safe and productive while preventing costly accidents. The reality is, moving machinery means risk. But with the right protection, that risk can be minimized. That’s where Velox Machine Guarding comes in. Designed to create a safe perimeter around equipment, it helps businesses meet regulatory standards, reduce…

November 19th, 2025 – AutomationDirect now offers Dold 9019 soft starters which offer simple dial setup for standard and light-duty three-phase applications under 9 amps and support a voltage range of 200-480VAC. These soft starters are in an ultra-compact, space-saving package with many great options, including a soft stop feature. Like most other solid-state soft…

November 19th, 2025 – AutomationDirect has added Endress+Hauser Micropilot FMR series FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) radar level transmitters that utilize 80 GHz radar technology, which is unaffected by most media, processes, or environmental factors. Using the change in frequency between the transmitted and reflected signals and time-of-flight calculations, the FMR series sensors continuously measure…

November 19th, 2025 – AutomationDirect now offers Fibox MNX and TEMPO series polycarbonate miniature cases which are engineered to deliver durable, adaptable protection for every installation need. The MNX series combines a premium thick-wall construction with reinforced corners for superior impact resistance and long-term performance. A corrosion-free polyamide screw cover ensures a secure seal, while metric…

November 19th, 2025-AutomationDirect now offers Sumitomo heat shrink tubing to support all wiring management needs, with both adhesive-lined and non-adhesive tubing options. Sumitomo’s Sumitube B2 is the go-to non-adhesive heat shrink tubing, ideal for general-purpose applications such as wire marking and light harness insulation. Sumitomo W3B2 heat shrink tubing combines a flame-retardant polyolefin outer layer…

Highlights When it comes to keeping the plant running efficiently, there’s an element that is always present but often overlooked. It’s the power and current that runs through machines. And all that needs to be managed and protected. In this issue of NOTEBOOK, we explore all aspects of this invisible force, exploring the need for…

When a plant’s main control panel went up in flames, it wasn’t a lightning strike or a voltage surge that caused the damage. The root cause was far more preventable and far more common: an undersized circuit protection device that couldn’t handle the available fault current. The result was catastrophic. The customer lost the entire…

By: Brent Purdy and David Saenz, Automation Direct Is your facility plagued by high energy costs, frequent nuisance trips, and repeated asset failures? Power monitoring could be just solution you need. Without data, it’s impossible to make informed decisions. After all, you can’t fix it if you can’t see it. Power monitors, or power quality…

Stepper Motors: What They Are and Their Role in Industrial Automation Trying to get perfect, repeatable motion can be a headache. A small mistake in positioning can ruin a job and cost you time. The solution is precision motion—that’s where stepper motors come in. So, what is a stepper motor? Watch the video PLC or…

Tie Fighter Let’s number the 4 ties that we plan to move: Then move them to these new positions: Do Your Level Best Here is a sketch of the tank with the block lowered into place.  Let h represent the height of the increased level (as shown) that we wish to determine. Let’s also label three areas:…

Tie Fighter Move only four cable ties so that the cable ties form three unique equilateral triangles. We’ve recently added a number of additional specialty cable ties and cable tie mounting products including the “winged push-in panel ties” shown in this puzzle.  Check them out here: go2adc.com/sapiselco Do Your Level Best The liquid level in the…

A wide range of products support reliable and safe electrical circuit designs for any application. By Billy Sonnenthal, AutomationDirect Key takeaways Nearly every electrical or control panel—whether destined for a home, office, or busy factory—features an incoming power circuit, internal power distribution, and connections to/from field devices. Careful hardware selection and compliance with electrical codes…

Surge suppression provisions are now mandated for many applications, and users are recognizing the value of protecting increasingly digital and connected systems from electrical disruptions. By David Saenz, AutomationDirect For many years, surge suppression protective devices may have seemed like an optional and supplementary choice, perhaps something consumers plugged their sensitive computers and TV equipment…

Mechanical engineering students also took on the controls aspects for designing a flexible hydraulic press producing sustainable and cost-effective building insulation production. By Ben Zamachaj Worldwide, millions of people live without adequate housing. While modern building materials like fiberglass insulation, moisture wrapping, and even the humble cinderblock have markedly improved construction standards over the past…

Because the sugar mill operates in overdrive production for just four months out of the year, and recovers for the other eight months, reliable products are essential for maximizing uptime during the busy season. By Josh Camel, M.A. Patout & Son Sugar Mill At most manufacturing plants, the production year is near-constant, with occasionally scheduled…

With offices in North Carolina, Florida, and Ontario, Canada, this global leader serves more than 130 countries with a comprehensive range of all-plastic instrumentation products. Learn more about ICON in this Supplier Profile!

AutomationDirect now offers di-soric patch cable in-line sensor signal converters which are compact, plug-and-play devices designed to provide versatile signal management right at the sensor. They allow for quick, easy retrofitting with existing M8 or M12 quick-disconnect sensors, making it simple to instantly upgrade discrete sensing capabilities without complex system changes. These rugged converters deliver…

AutomationDirect has added ProSense DPM4 series advanced digital panel meters which combine precision and versatility in a compact 1/8 DIN package. They accept a variety of sensor inputs and provide customizable analog, discrete, and serial outputs via optional expansion cards. Features include bright main and secondary LED displays, selectable sensor excitation, configuration lockout, and an…

AutomationDirect has added Lutze Amphenol MPronto-12 series data and sensor/signal connection cables which are engineered for secure, high-performance connections in industrial automation, food and beverage, and motion-intensive applications. Featuring industry-standard axial M12 connectors with pigtail and a push-pull spring lock design, the M12 A-coded sensor and signal cables ensure fast, vibration-resistant connections. A-coded cables are available…