AutomationDirect Adds New Connectors, Capacitive Switches, and LugsAutomationDirect Adds New Connectors, Capacitive Switches, and Lugs

In recent days, AutomationDirect has filled out its product list with additional network automation tools.

Rob Spiegel

January 16, 2025

3 Min Read
connectors for automation systems
AutomationDirect

At a Glance

  • Advantech Modbus gateways provide easy integration of Modbus TCP and Modbus RTU/ASCII networks.
  • Captron capacitive pushbuttons utilize touch control activated when a hand or body part nears the device’s surface.
  • Penn-Union compression lugs securely terminate electrical cables, especially high-power or large-diameter cables.

AutomationDirect has added several new products to its automation portfolio. Additional items include a serial-to-Ethernet Modbus gateway that allows connections of isolated serial devices to the internet for centralized machine communication management. The distributor has also added Captron capacitive pushbuttons that feature a robust IP69K design, wear-free operation, resistance to water, oil, and harsh environments, and are available in various mounting/operator sizes. Finally, AutomationDirect has added Penn-Union lug connectors that are rated for copper conductors, have a beveled entry for easy cable insertion, and have color-coded barrels marked with die index numbers, making inspections and certified installations much simpler.

AutomationDirect has added Advantech serial-to-Ethernet Modbus gateways allowing connections of isolated serial devices to the internet for centralized machine communication management. Advantech Modbus gateways provide easy integration of Modbus TCP and Modbus RTU/ASCII networks and offer two 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports for LAN redundancy.

These gateways can be set up and troubleshot with an easy-to-use web interface and provide up to four software selectable RS-232/422/485 ports. Configurations allow up to 16 peer connections under Modbus Client mode and 32 peer connections under Modbus Server mode on each serial port.

Related:AutomationDirect Adds a Slew of New Automation Tools

Another addition to this launch is the ZIPLink ZL-CMA9 9-position terminal block to 9-pin D-sub female port adapter communication module. This type of adapter provides fast and convenient screw terminal connections for D-sub ports on Advantech Modbus gateways or any other compatible device.

Captron Caneo Series capacitive pushbuttons

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AutomationDirect has added more Captron capacitive pushbuttons that utilize touch control and are activated without pressure when a hand or body part nears the device’s surface. They feature a robust IP69K design, wear-free operation, resistance to water, oil, and harsh environments, and are available in various mounting/operator sizes.

Caneo Series10 additions include more standard and stainless-steel hygienic models with static or dynamic switch types and blank, power symbol, or RESET legends. They are available in automatic or semi-automatic LED control modes and provide a convenient 7.87in. (200mm) pigtail connection for quick installation.

New Caneo Series41 solid display capacitive switches combine a flange-mount capacitive switch with a sturdy aluminum terminal base that can withstand the harshest of environments. These switches feature an ergonomic design for ease of use and a robust construction for long-lasting, reliable performance. They combine status, control signal, and 7-segment display into one compact device.

New Caneo Series40 puck-style standard and display type capacitive switches offer the same reliable performance as the Series41 in a compact, encapsulated polycarbonate housing. Their standard 22mm mounting provides a low-cost solution to quickly and easily retrofit and modernize aging installations.

Penn-Union compression lugs and crimp tools

penn-union-compression-lugs-5x7.jpg

AutomationDirect has added Penn-Union compression lugs to provide a secure method of terminating electrical cables, especially high-power or large-diameter cables, to electrical equipment. Unlike mechanical lugs, that are screwed/clamped in place, these connectors are crimped onto the cable using the appropriate crimping tool for a permanent installation.

These connectors are rated for copper conductors, have a beveled entry for easy cable insertion, and have color-coded barrels marked with die index numbers, making inspections and certified installations much simpler. Penn-Union compression connectors are certified to be installed using commonly found tools and do so without loss of agency certification.

Also included are Penn-Union compression lug tools, which feature a small head designed for use in confined spaces. The unique telescopic handle design (TDM) provides increased leverage when needed, and the tools support 8 AWG up to 500 MCM wire/cable.

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About the Author

Rob Spiegel

Rob Spiegel serves as a senior editor for Design News. He started with Design News in 2002 as a freelancer covering sustainability issues, including the transistion in electronic components to RoHS compliance. Rob was hired by Design News as senior editor in 2011 to cover automation, manufacturing, 3D printing, robotics, AI, and more.

Prior to his work with Design News, Rob worked as a senior editor for Electronic News and Ecommerce Business. He served as contributing editolr to Automation World for eight years, and he has contributed to Supply Chain Management Review, Logistics Management, Ecommerce Times, and many other trade publications. He is the author of six books on small business and internet commerce, inclluding Net Strategy: Charting the Digital Course for Your Company's Growth.

He has been published in magazines that range from Rolling Stone to True Confessions.

Rob has won a number of awards for his technolloghy coverage, including a Maggy Award for a Design News article on the Jeep Cherokee hacking, and a Launch Team award for Ecommerce Business. Rob has also won awards for his leadership postions in the American Marketing Association and SouthWest Writers.

Before covering technology, Rob spent 10 years as publisher and owner of Chile Pepper Magazine, a national consumer food publication. He has published hundreds of poems and scores of short stories in national publications.

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