PLCs: New “micro brick” controller suits first time users
AutomationDirectreleases the Click PLC, the first in its new line of inexpensive PLC components in a compact yet expandable design.
AutomationDirect announces the release of the Click PLC. Suitable for first time users as well as experienced programmers and starting at $69, it is the first in the company’s line of inexpensive PLC components designed to offer practical features in a compact yet expandable design. This “micro brick PLC” supports stackable I/O expansion modules starting at $33.
By itself, a powered Click CPU unit can function as a complete PLC system. The unit features eight inputs and six outputs available in four combinations of built-in I/O types. For expansion, 11 option modules are available, creating systems supporting up to 142 I/O points. All Click CPUs support 8K steps of Flash EEPROM program memory and 8K words of data memory. Two 24 VDC power supply options, with either .5A or 1.3A outputs, can be used to power the PLC. The included programming software provides 21 instructions, a combination of Relay ladder logic and Function blocks, that are supported by a comprehensive programming environment.
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Click CPU units also feature two built-in RS-232 RJ12 communications ports. One port supports Modbus RTU protocol only and can be used as the programming port. This port can also connect the CPU to a Modbus RTU network as a slave device. The second port is a general-purpose port with user configurable communications parameters that supports either Modbus RTU or ASCII protocols. Both communications ports supply 5 VDC, allowing connection of the C-more Micro HMI panel without an additional power supply. LED indicators located at each port indicate when the port is transmitting or receiving.
The Click PLC system physical package requires no mounting base. Up to eight modules can be attached via an integrated expansion port on the sides of the modules. As part of the Click line of products, pre-wired I/O cables are also available.
– Edited by Renee Robbins , senior editor
Control Engineering News Desk
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