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 the specific devices requiring it. Port mirroring takes a view of your network and sends a copy of all the traffic from a selected port to a monitor port, which can be used for diagnostics. The port alarm feature watches for cable connections and sends an alarm signal anytime the Ethernet port connection status changes, an unauthorized device is connected, or an authorized device goes offline. This signal can be used to activate an audio and/or visual signaling device to notify personnel. STRIDE PRO models include PoE, PoE+, and Gigabit Ethernet options with up to 12 ports.

Also added with this launch is a STRIDE industrial unmanaged switch with (8) IP67 10/100Base-T M12 Ethernet ports, USB A and USB C type adapter cables with 9-pin D-sub male connectors for RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 serial connections, and a DIN rail mounting bracket for STRIDE PRO switches. 

About AutomationDirect:

In business since 1994, AutomationDirect is a distributor offering thousands of industrial automation products for electrical control systems, including PLCs, operator interfaces, AC drives, motors, stepper systems, sensors, motor controls, enclosures and more. Their prices are typically well below the list price of more traditional automation companies because of their business model and focus on efficiency, and the majority of their products are stocked for fast shipping. Plus, get free two-day delivery on orders over $49; some limitations apply. For more information and the most current pricing on products contact them at 800-633-0405 or visit https://www.automationdirect.com/

Editorial Contact: Tina Gable
Phone: 678-455-1845
Email: tgable@automationdirect.com
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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, these models feature built-in overload protection, accuracies down to 0.03% of full scale, protection ratings up to IP67, and capacities up to 2000 kg (4409 lb). Single point cells, ideal for scales and batching systems, provide a 4–20 mA output for direct connection to controllers and displays. Shear beam designs offer heavy-duty performance for hoppers and vessels. Compact tension/compression units measure bi-directional force in a robust, space-saving design with 4–20 mA outputs for easy integration into process control systems.

About AutomationDirect:

In business since 1994, AutomationDirect is a distributor offering thousands of industrial automation products for electrical control systems, including PLCs, operator interfaces, AC drives, motors, stepper systems, sensors, motor controls, enclosures and more. Their prices are typically well below the list price of more traditional automation companies because of their business model and focus on efficiency, and the majority of their products are stocked for fast shipping. Plus, get free two-day delivery on orders over $49; some limitations apply. For more information and the most current pricing on products contact them at 800-633-0405 or visit https://www.automationdirect.com/

Editorial Contact: Tina Gable
Phone: 678-455-1845
Email: tgable@automationdirect.com
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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 models, PSC1-C-10 and PSC1-C-100, include 14 safe inputs up to PL e or SIL 3, 4 adjustable safe semiconductor outputs, 2 safe relay outputs, and 2 pulse outputs. The PSC1-C-10 includes 2 signaling outputs, and the I/O can be expanded by adding up to 2 expansion modules. The PSC1-C-100 adds 6 signaling outputs and 20 adjustable safe I/O points. This more advanced model can be expanded by adding up to 8 expansion I/O modules. Both models have the option for built-in fieldbus support for EtherCAT, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP or Modbus TCP, depending on the model selected, so no additional communications modules need to be purchased.

About AutomationDirect:

In business since 1994, AutomationDirect is a distributor offering thousands of industrial automation products for electrical control systems, including PLCs, operator interfaces, AC drives, motors, stepper systems, sensors, motor controls, enclosures and more. Their prices are typically well below the list price of more traditional automation companies because of their business model and focus on efficiency, and the majority of their products are stocked for fast shipping. Plus, get free two-day delivery on orders over $49; some limitations apply. For more information and the most current pricing on products contact them at 800-633-0405 or visit https://www.automationdirect.com/

Editorial Contact: Tina Gable
Phone: 678-455-1845
Email: tgable@automationdirect.com
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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 need on every job. 

Aluminum, black pre-insulated power bars and in‑line splicers/reducers are engineered to handle two to four conductors in AL‑AL, AL‑CU, or CU‑CU configurations. Designed for broad compatibility and with a rugged construction and dependable insulation, these connectors provide a clean, reliable solution for modern power distribution needs. 

Bronze service post connectors deliver outstanding conductivity thanks to their premium high‑copper wrought alloy construction. Built for versatility and long‑lasting reliability, these connectors create a solid, dependable link between copper cables and steel structures, bus bars, transformers, or electrical enclosures. Mechanical connector oxide inhibitors are specially formulated to block oxidation and corrosion before they start—ensuring long‑term performance and reliability. They’re essential when working with aluminum or any combination of dissimilar metals, creating a cleaner, more stable connection that keeps your system running at peak efficiency.

About AutomationDirect:

In business since 1994, AutomationDirect is a distributor offering thousands of industrial automation products for electrical control systems, including PLCs, operator interfaces, AC drives, motors, stepper systems, sensors, motor controls, enclosures and more. Their prices are typically well below the list price of more traditional automation companies because of their business model and focus on efficiency, and the majority of their products are stocked for fast shipping. Plus, get free two-day delivery on orders over $49; some limitations apply. For more information and the most current pricing on products contact them at 800-633-0405 or visit https://www.automationdirect.com/

Editorial Contact: Tina Gable
Phone: 678-455-1845
Email: tgable@automationdirect.com
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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 are watertight, UV resistant, lightweight and rust-free, with exceptional impact resistance. As one of the world’s largest enclosure manufacturers, Fibox is also recognized as a premier U.S. supplier of thermoplastic enclosures for hostile environments.

“Our enclosures are UL and cUL listed, ensuring they meet the highest safety and performance standards in North America,” said Carl Marchese, Fibox Director of Marketing. “The high-grade polycarbonate is naturally resistant to harsh chemicals and salt air, so critical electrical and electronic components stay safe and operational. Whether it’s extreme weather or a busy factory floor, Fibox enclosures are built to take the hits so components don’t have to.”

A few standout moments and facts in Fibox history:

• Beginning in 1966, Fiskars Enclosure (which would become Fibox) pioneered the injection molding of polycarbonate for use in the electrical industry. In total, Fibox has developed more than 17 families of enclosing solutions.
• After leaving the Fiskars group in 1991, Fibox Enclosure Systems expanded manufacturing with sites in Finland, Korea, and Guangzhou, China. Sales and marketing efforts also grew, with eight Field Service Centers established across major European countries, the United Kingdom and the United States.
• Fibox Inc. was established in 1997 to import and market Fibox enclosures in the U.S. While the company name was new, Fibox enclosures had been used on a private-label basis since the early 1980s. As product popularity grew in automation and process control industries, the timing was right to establish the U.S. subsidiary.

Engineering for Long-Term Protection

When it comes to protecting critical electrical or industrial equipment, the Fibox team believes choosing between fiberglass and polycarbonate goes beyond price to considering long-term survival in harsh environments. They have created their non-metallic boxes to deliver reliable, long-lasting protection against harsh washdowns, chemicals and corrosive environments.

Molding technology is an essential part of product development at Fibox. The company leads the industry in developing both new products and new molding technologies for thermoplastic polycarbonate enclosures.

One example is the Fibox MNX enclosure, the first to utilize direct injection of gasket material during the body molding process. This approach ensures precise gasket placement and consistently superior enclosure protection ratings. Fibox remains the only manufacturer applying this technology to enclosures.

Fibox Miniature Cases, Subpanels, and Accessories at AutomationDirect

AutomationDirect offers Fibox MNX and TEMPO series polycarbonate miniature cases 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 knockouts sized from M12 to M50 are molded in place for immediate cable entry. 

The TEMPO series miniature cases deliver a cost-effective solution optimized for installation speed and convenience. Its economical thick-wall design includes tamper-resistant screws, a tool-free soft strap hinge and easy wall mounting via polyamide feet and through-base pods positioned outside the gasket seal. With pre-formed knockouts on all four sides and optional galvanized steel mounting plates or molded DIN-rail mounting pods, the TEMPO series simplifies rapid, flexible installation. Subpanels and other accessories from Fibox, including mounting feet, inspection windows, DIN rails and more, are available to support seamless installation.

“Just as important as our technical leadership is Fibox’s commitment to truly understanding our customers’ needs. We listen to input from our global customer base and use it to develop new enclosure ranges, practical accessories and ongoing product improvements and enhancements,” added Marchese.

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 the crimp position, while the integrated ratchet mechanism ensures uniform, gas tight terminations. Weidmuller automatic cutting and stripping tools adapt to different conductor types, preventing strand damage while producing repeatable, accurate strip lengths. Adjustable length stops, fast jaw opening, and replaceable blades help support long term durability and high volume use. For delicate or specialty wiring, precision wire strippers handle 32–18 AWG conductors using blade profiles tailored for PVC, PTFE, and silicone insulation.

Specialty screwdrivers from Weidmuller, including the SWIFTY cutting and stripping screwdriver and terminal block actuation screwdrivers, are optimized to perform specific tasks. Cable shears, diagonal cutters, folding knives, and electrician’s scissors allow one-hand mechanical operation for convenient use in tight spaces. Weidmuller also provides dedicated cable stripping tools for round, data, and coaxial cables, featuring adjustable cut depth.

Heavy duty models support cable diameters up to 999 mm. A selection of self-adjusting crimping tools is also available and offers trapezoidal, hexagon, square, and indent crimp profiles for permanent connections between stranded conductors and wire-end ferrules. Rotating die heads on select models allow access to ferrules from any angle in tight enclosures.

About AutomationDirect:

In business since 1994, AutomationDirect is a distributor offering thousands of industrial automation products for electrical control systems, including PLCs, operator interfaces, AC drives, motors, stepper systems, sensors, motor controls, enclosures and more. Their prices are typically well below the list price of more traditional automation companies because of their business model and focus on efficiency, and the majority of their products are stocked for fast shipping. Plus, get free two-day delivery on orders over $49; some limitations apply. For more information and the most current pricing on products contact them at 800-633-0405 or visit https://www.automationdirect.com/

Editorial Contact: Tina Gable
Phone: 678-455-1845
Email: tgable@automationdirect.com
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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 – Ashcroft
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.
Read more

Now Available

AutomationDirect Large AWG Sensor Cable
New sensor/actuator cables start at $0.88 / ft. (30 ft. min.)

SIfam Tinsley Analog Panel Meter
Starting at $28.50

Murrplastik Solid Corrugated Tubing and Fittings
Tubing starting at $19.50

Additional Epson LabelWorks Heat-Shrink Tube Labels
Priced at $31.50 

More Flowline LR80 Series EchoBeam FMCW Radar Level Sensors
Starting at $955.00

Hammond ACE Series HMI Enclosures and Suspension Arm Systems
Hammond suspension arm system components start at $192.00

Klemsan TDS Series Timer Relays
Starting at $16.75

Konnect-It Screw-Type Ring, Fork, Quick Connect, and Multi-function Terminal Blocks
Starting at $26.00 / 25pk.

More WEG CFW500 Washdown Duty AC Drives
Starting at $2,430.00

Surge Suppression Shields Commercial and Industrial Systems
Far from being a mere convenience, surge suppression is now a cornerstone of system resilience, regulatory compliance, and business continuity. The proliferation of intelligent devices—ranging from IIoT sensors and EV charging stations to data centers and power electronics—means that more assets than ever are vulnerable to electrical disturbances.
Learn more

What is HMI & SCADA?
The terms HMI and SCADA are often used interchangeably. While they are related, they serve very different roles in an automation system. In this video, we’ll define the terms, show their similarities and differences, and which system is right for you.
Watch the Video

Husky Rack & Wire – Supplier Profile
Husky Rack & Wire manufactures a variety of products for the material handling industry, including pallet rack, cable reel rack, wire deck, security partition, rack guard and aisle shield. It is the only RMI-certified material handling products manufacturer in the country to have dual certification for both pallet rack and wire deck. Husky is proud to manufacture all of its products in compliance with “Made in the USA” standards.
Read more

Monthly Product Giveaway
This month you have a chance to win one of five Wiha tool sets. Enter your info for a chance to win. Contest is open for approximately 3 weeks after the newsletter is sent and is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only. Winner will be contacted via email.
Enter for a chance to WIN!

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 is pre-printed with an individual character for clear legibility and is available in black on yellow or black on white color options. Designed to fit wire sizes ranging from 22 AWG to 10 AWG, the markers feature alignment notches for precise placement and are built to withstand harsh environments. Markers come preloaded on applicators that are designed to simplify installation and prevent over-expansion.

About AutomationDirect:

In business since 1994, AutomationDirect is a distributor offering thousands of industrial automation products for electrical control systems, including PLCs, operator interfaces, AC drives, motors, stepper systems, sensors, motor controls, enclosures and more. Their prices are typically well below the list price of more traditional automation companies because of their business model and focus on efficiency, and the majority of their products are stocked for fast shipping. Plus, get free two-day delivery on orders over $49; some limitations apply. For more information and the most current pricing on products contact them at 800-633-0405 or visit https://www.automationdirect.com/

Editorial Contact: Tina Gable
Phone: 678-455-1845
Email: tgable@automationdirect.com
Download: High Resolution Image Download
Download: Web Friendly Image Download

• 5 Ways AI Will Grow ROI on the Plant Floors in 2026
• Headless HMIs Bring New Levels of Flexibility for Machine and Process Control
• Getting with the Object-Oriented Program
• And Much More!

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 30 years, has been advising on industrial automation and cybersecurity projects. For the last 10 years, artificial intelligence (AI) has been a big part of his practice. So, we asked him: Where will AI make the most difference for manufacturers this year? His answer may surprise you. But 2026 could be the year that AI delivers that important return on investment (ROI) we’ve all been waiting for. All this and more in our first issue of NOTEBOOK 2026.

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 ability to support alternative approaches to automation. Enter the headless HMI. For the right application, a headless HMI can deliver a flexible, cost-effective, highly accessible alternative to traditional panel-mount devices.

Panel-Mount HMIs

A panel-mount HMI is a single unit that consists of a logic module fronted by a display or touchscreen (see Figure 1). Panel-mount HMIs can be Installed directly on
the machine or on the front of the cabinet.

Pros

Panel-mount HMIs are familiar and widely used. The all-in-one design is simple to install – they just need to be wired up and connected to a power source. They’re available with resistive or capacitive touchscreens. Some HMIs can be accessed remotely, giving a certain amount of flexibility for monitoring, data acquisition, and even limited control or maintenance.

Cons

The panel-mount approach requires a dedicated HMI for each enclosure/ machine. This adds to the expense of installing new equipment. Screens are also limited to the dimensions and form factors available within a given product line. The integration of logic and output device also has its drawbacks. Physical touchscreens and displays can wear out or sustain damage. This is a particular risk in the punishing industrial environment, where equipment is routinely exposed to dust and contamination, temperature extremes, and shock and vibration. And I think we’ve all heard the tales of the operator who uses a screwdriver tip to
press a button on a touchscreen. Even for relatively superficial damage to the display or touchscreen, the entire panel-mount HMI needs to be replaced. This can quickly become expensive, especially if it leads to unscheduled downtime while a new unit is ordered and installed.

When to Choose a Panel-Mount HMI

Panel-mount HMIs definitely have a place on the factory floor. The units work well for operations mostly restricted to the local area, although some can be equipped for remote access. They are ideal for independent or isolated systems. But what about applications that require atypical displays/outputs/interfaces?
What about tightly internetworked production lines? For these, and many other, headless HMIs provide an alternative.

Headless HMIs

A headless HMI is a DIN-rail-mounted processing and communications unit that connects to an external display or remote digital device. It decouples
the logic device from the output device. As a result of this modular approach, headless HMIs lend themselves to a variety of implementations:

• External large-screen displays (Andon boards)
• Stand-alone touchscreens
• Off-machine device: headless HMIs can displays data on a computer, a smart phone, or a tablet.

Pros

The headless HMI approach offers a number of significant benefits.

Display flexibility: Decoupling the logic module from the output device offers unparalleled flexibility to tailor the HMI to the application. Engineers are no longer limited to specific sizes and form factors of displays and touchscreens. A headless HMI can connect to any size HDMI monitor or TV supporting standard resolutions up to 1080p (see Figure 2).

Output-type flexibility: For control applications, a headless HMI can be connected to a touchscreen display or even a flat-panel display paired with a keyboard or pointing device. These logic devices are compatible with capacitive touchscreens, as well as conventional resistive touchscreens. In contrast with pressure-based touchscreens, capacitive touchscreens are low or non-contact. As a result, even high-use buttons don’t experience excessive mechanical wear that might otherwise lead to premature failure. Headless HMIs are compatible with remote digital devices like tablets, smartphones, or desktop computers via direct connection or wireless. They may be used primarily to extract and share information. The HMI software can also be run full-time on a computer plugged into a USB port. Perhaps most interesting, a headless HMI can act as a PLC-to-PLC bridge to aggregate data. For a simple system that just requires the main production machine to know its operational status, this can replace the need for a SCADA system.

Communications flexibility: Headless HMIs lend themselves to alternative HDMI architectures. They can be used with range extenders and splitters to, for example, send the data to an 18-inch touchscreen on the machine for the operators and mirror the image to a large overhead display showing production status and key information about the system.

The benefits of modularity: Separating logic and intelligence from display/interface options brings a number of benefits. Machine builders and integrators can take advantage of a single control architecture in the form of the headless HMI, connecting to a display/output type, size, location, and orientation best suited to each machine application. Decoupling logic from output also reduces hardware costs. Displays or other output devices can be updated or replaced without any changes to the headless HMI. This saves not just installation time but also time spent programming and configuring the logic.

The logic and intelligence of the HMI is sealed in the cabinet, not mounted on the front of the machine. This is great for harsh environments, protecting the unit from dust and contamination, temperature extremes, and mechanical shock and damage. There’s less risk to the logic unit – and to production – from a cracked display screen or broken interface. A machine with a headless HMI is a hardened machine. In addition, the headless HMI approach can be used to restrict access to machine controls. If a machine just has a headless HMI in the cabinet with no external display, then it can only be accessed by PC, tablet, or smart phone.
Individuals on the production floor have no way to gain access through a panel-mount screen.

Cons

There are a few trade-offs. Because headless HMIs require both the logic unit and the output unit, two items need to be purchased and installed. That said, depending on the choice of headless HMI and display, the combination may not be more expensive than a panel mount – there’s a crossover point. Even if the
headless HMI system requires a slightly higher capital expenditure, because of the benefits above, it can still lead to reduced operating expenditures. This is an important advantage for industrial automation equipment for which the electronics alone may have operating lifetimes of a decade or more.

Due to the HDMI connection and mounting, having the display separate from the enclosure can impact project troubleshooting. If the screen goes black, is it the HMI or the display? Discovering the answer just requires plugging the HMI into a different display.

When to Choose a Headless HMI

Headless HMIs are not better or worse than panel-mount HMIs, they are just different. Getting the most out of the headless HMI requires the right application. Headless HMIs are the optimal choice for:

• Locations with a high possibility of damage to a panel-mount HMI
• Applications requiring custom configurations
• Distributed environments involving separate machines and/or multi-site operations
• Applications that primarily require remote access
• Real-time monitoring control from a central locations
• Secure-access environments where physical access to the HMI should be prevented

Conclusion

Emerging architectures in the modern industrial automation environment increasingly require alternative solutions for HMIs. By decoupling the logic module from display/output interface, headless HMIs deliver unparalleled flexibility. Machine builders, integrators, and end-users can support custom configurations, distributed architectures, and remote monitoring and control. The logic module remains inside the cabinet, protected from harsh environments and unauthorized access. It is an engineering truism that there is no one perfect solution, just the best solution for the job at hand. For many applications, panel-mount HMIs are very effective solutions. For applications that require more, however, the headless HMI may be just the solution.