AutomationDirect Adds I/O Modules to Productivity PLC Family

AutomationDirect has expanded its catalog of modules that integrate with its popular Productivity1000/Productivity2000 PLC series. In this latest expansion, AutomationDirect has added new solid-state relay, thermocouple, and combination relay modules, all designed to generate less electrical noise and fit in small spaces.

AutomationDirect has expanded its Productivity1000 and Productivity2000 PLC series with new module options. Image used courtesy of AutomationDirect

AutomationDirect’s Productivity PLCs

The Productivity line of PLCs is popular due to its capabilities and low price point. The CPU can start as low as $139.00 and is programmed with free software, making it inexpensive to build control into an automation system. Both the Productivity1000 and Productivity2000 use standard protocols, such as MQTT, Modbus RTU/TCP, and EtherNet/IP.

AutomationDirect’s newest modules extend the capability of the Productivity PLC platform without adding much to the physical bulk or the overall cost of the system.

AutomationDirect’s P2-08TEPS Productivity2000 relay output module. Image used courtesy of AutomationDirect

Solid-State Relay Output Modules

AutomationDirect has added the P1-04TEPS and P2-8TEPS solid-state relay modules to both the Productivity1000 and Productivity200 PLCs. The P1-04TEPS provides four output channels for the Productivity1000 PLC, and the P2-8TEPS provides eight for the Productivity200 PLC.

The key advantage of these relay modules is that they have no moving mechanical parts. This design means there are no parts to wear out, and these modules have a much longer service life as compared to mechanical relays. No moving parts means there is no internal arcing, so no wear from arc flash, as well as very little electrical noise during switching. Also, the switching can happen much more quickly than with mechanical relays.

Thermocouple Modules

Two new thermocouple modules, the P1-04THMS and the P2-08THMS, are designed for the Productivity1000 and Productivity2000 series PLCs, respectively. Each features 16-bit resolution and flexible inputs that will accept a wide variety of thermocouple types. Both modules have isolated input terminals to minimize interference from adjacent signals and random EMI from other hardware. The P1-04THMS has four input channels, whereas the P2-08THMS has eight input channels.

AutomationDirect’s P1-12CDRS Productivity1000 discrete/relay combo module. Image used courtesy of AutomationDirect

Discrete/Relay Combination Module

Designed for the Productivity1000, the new P1-12CDRS is a combination I/O module that adds flexibility to the system. It combines high-current (5 A) single-pole single-throw (SPST) relay control with eight 24 VAC/24 VDC discrete I/O ports. It can serve as a multipurpose module that handles two different I/O types. By combining these capabilities into a single module, machine designers save both physical space and cost.

Cost-Effective Automation

AutomationDirect has designed its relay modules for applications that require rapid switching. The modules are quiet (acoustically and electrically) and have a long lifespan. With no arcing during switching, they have been designed in places where EMI must be minimized.

The addition of a thermocouple module enables users to monitor temperature quickly. The modules can be used for process variables, such as reactor temperature, water or steam temperature, and so on. Also, the thermocouple module can be used to monitor diagnostic variables, such as ambient temperature near bearings, flue or exhaust temperature, and other variables that can help diagnose production problems.

AutomationDirect has built its combination module to provide flexible I/O channels so that one module can do the work of several. Virtually any machine design benefits from lower cost and a smaller footprint.