Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) - AutomationDirect Systems Overview
Introduction to AutomationDirect PLCs
AutomationDirect.com offers a wide range of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) designed to meet diverse project and system needs, catering to various budgets. The company partners with established manufacturers to produce its own PLC brands, alongside offering controllers from LS Electric. Key benefits include affordability, reliability, and comprehensive support.
Key offerings include:
- AutomationDirect Federation Partner PLCs (Starting at $97.00)
- LS Electric PLCs by AutomationDirect (Starting at $329.00)
Additional resources are available:
- Up-to-date price list: www.automationdirect.com/pricelist
- FREE Technical Support: www.automationdirect.com/support
- FREE Videos: www.automationdirect.com/videos
- FREE Documentation: www.automationdirect.com/documentation
- FREE CAD drawings: www.automationdirect.com/cad
Finding the Right PLC
To quickly find the right PLC, AutomationDirect offers an interactive PLC selector tool. Users can specify controller type, I/O requirements, communication protocols, and hardware/software options to receive tailored recommendations. The website also provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about their PLC offerings, covering topics such as the variety of options, product updates, manufacturing practices, and long-term product plans.
Access the PLC Selector: [Link to PLC Selector Tool]
AutomationDirect Federation Partner PLC Families
AutomationDirect collaborates with leading companies to provide a diverse range of PLC solutions:
CLICK PLCs
Category: Simple Control with Big Features for Small Systems
Description: Offers extreme value for everyday applications, known for compact size and easy programming, ideal for small projects and beginners. CLICK PLUS adds Wi-Fi, motion control, data logging, and more.
- CLICK Basic PLC Unit starting at $97.00
- CLICK PLUS PLC CPU starting at $102.00
Features: Stand-alone units, expandable I/O, onboard communication (Ethernet/serial), high-speed counter/timer support, micro size, removable terminal blocks, FREE programming software. CLICK PLUS offers Wi-Fi, MQTT, Node-RED support, and enhanced security.
Do-more PLCs (including BRX)
Category: High-Performance Control, Equipped to Tackle Demanding Projects
Description: A programming powerhouse with an advanced instruction set, designed for demanding projects. The BRX PLC platform offers innovative and affordable features.
- Do-more PLCs starting at $213.00
Features: High-performance processors, internal RAM/microSD storage, Ethernet/serial/USB communication, onboard high-speed I/O, hot-swappable ports (BRX), FREE advanced programming software with simulator, device-centric programming, user-defined structure data types, support for tasks/subroutines/ISRs, embedded video help, robust instruction set, modular PID control, integrated security, seamless IT/IIoT integration (MQTT/HTTPS/FTP/Rest API).
Productivity Series PLCs
Category: Advanced All-Purpose Control, Extreme Versatility
Description: Highly versatile, scalable PLC line suitable for large or small systems. Features tag-name programming, device integration (PS-AMC motion controllers, GS drives, Protos X field I/O), and analog data displays.
- Productivity1000 CPU starting at $237.00
- Productivity2000 CPU starting at $365.00
- Productivity3000 CPU starting at $550.00
Features: Numerous onboard communication ports, high-contrast OLED/LCD displays (P2000/P3000), auto-discovery of devices, integrated StrideLinx VPN, web server/mobile app access, EDS file support, hot-swappable I/O (P2000/P3000), scalable I/O up to 59K+, project simulator, ABS certified (select modules). CPUs offer 50MB memory, 32GB microSD logging, built-in Ethernet, and advanced instructions.
LS Electric XGB PLC
Description: Makes advanced control affordable with features like motion control and an IEC programming environment.
- LS Electric XGB PLC starting at $307.00 w/FREE Software
Features: Super-compact, state-of-the-art features, high-level motion control (up to 22 axes), IEC programming (Structured Text, Ladder Diagram), user-defined function blocks, "Excel-like" tag creation. Supports EtherNet/IP, Modbus, EtherCAT. Can be used standalone or expanded with I/O modules.
ProductivityOpen
Category: Industrial Open-Source CPUs
Description: Industrial-grade open-source CPUs (Arduino MKR compatible) for DIY applications, offering the power and reliability of industrial controllers.
- Industrial-Grade Open-Source CPUs starting at $69.00
Features: Compatible with Arduino MKR shields and Productivity shields. P1AM-100 CPU uses Arduino IDE (C++ or sketch programs). P1AM-200 CPU uses CircuitPython or C++ and has a crypto coprocessor.
Partner Companies
AutomationDirect collaborates with key industry players:
- Host Engineering, Inc.: Developed DirectSOFT, partnered on Do-more! and BRX PLC platforms.
- FACTS Engineering: Exclusive supplier, offers over 500 products, collaborates on new products like ProductivityOpen and PS-AMC motion controllers.
- JTEKT: Global company with extensive engineering expertise, established PLCDirect (now AutomationDirect) as a subsidiary, contributing to DL and CLICK PLC lines.
PLC Family Comparison
A comparison table highlights key features across Do-more BRX, Productivity2000, and CLICK PLUS PLCs:
| Feature | Do-more BRX | Productivity2000 | CLICK PLUS |
|---|---|---|---|
| PID | With trending and auto-tuning | With trending and auto-tuning | 8 loops |
| Built-in Communications Ports | Up to 3 (USB, RS232/485, Ethernet options) | 5 built-in (USB, RS-232, RS-485, Ethernet, Remote I/O) | Up to 9 (Wi-Fi, USB, RS-232, RS-485, Ethernet) |
| Communications Protocols | Modbus RTU/TCP, EtherNet/IP, MQTT/MQTTS, HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, SNTP, DHCP | Modbus RTU/TCP, ASCII, TCP/IP, UDP/IP, EtherNet/IP, MQTT/MQTTS, Ethernet remote I/O, ProNET | MQTT, Modbus RTU/TCP, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, HTTP/HTTPS |
| Data Logging | 1MB Internal RAM + 32GB MicroSD option | 32GB MicroSD option | 32GB MicroSD option (SQLite database) |
| Built-in Web Server/Mobile Access | Web server | Web server and mobile app | Mobile apps for provisioning, monitoring, and control |
| Max Local Discrete/Analog I/O | 292 discrete / 134 analog | 480 discrete / 240 analog | 156 discrete / 60 analog |
| Max Local High-speed I/O | 146 channels @ 250kHz (or 64 @ 2MHz) | 30 channels @ 1MHz | 8 inputs / 6 counters, 3 pulsed outputs @ 100kHz |
| Programming Environment | Fixed memory addressing; ladder logic with fill-in-the-blank function blocks | Tag name addressing; ladder logic with fill-in-the-blank function blocks | Fixed memory addressing; ladder logic with fill-in-the-blank function blocks |
| Max User Memory | 1.89 MB | 50 MB | 16 KB |
Software and Support
AutomationDirect emphasizes FREE downloadable software for its PLC lines, including Do-more Designer, Productivity Suite, and XG5000. These software packages offer features like project simulators, intuitive interfaces, and extensive instruction sets to simplify programming and troubleshooting. The company also provides robust technical support, customer testimonials, and resources like videos and documentation to assist users.
LS Electric XGB and EtherCAT Motion
The LS Electric XGB PLC integrates advanced capabilities like EtherCAT motion control, enabling precise, real-time communication for applications such as palletizers, pick-and-place systems, and precision machining. Key features of EtherCAT include industry-leading performance, flexibility, cost advantages, less wiring, fast cycle times, and built-in redundancy. The XGB PLC supports various motion control instructions and can be paired with the LS XMC motion controller for more advanced applications.
DirectLOGIC Legacy Support and Migration
AutomationDirect continues to support its legacy DirectLOGIC PLCs (DL05, DL06, DL205, DL405) for over 25 years. For new systems, they recommend their modern CLICK, Do-more, or Productivity series controllers. A DirectSOFT to Do-more Migration Utility is available to help customers transition their existing DirectLOGIC projects to the Do-more platform, simplifying the conversion process.
