When it comes to industrial automation systems and componentry, the term "mini" often connotes not only compact size but limited capabilities as well as non-repairable, disposable construction. But in the case of EZAutomation's new EZTouch miniPLC, good things do come in small packages.
Indeed, measuring in at only 1.5-in. deep, together with enough surface area for a 3.5 or 6-in. touchscreen, the EZTouch miniPLC boasts, with a top-end human machine interface (HMI) and a powerful programmable logic controller (PLC), features and functionality that belie its diminutive form factor.
"One of our core values at AVG is to pack as much horsepower as possible into every cubic inch," says Shalabh "Shalli" Kumar, chairman and founder of EZAutomation and its parent company AVG. The unit features 27 inputs and outputs (20 digital, 3 analog, and 4 relay), each with its own status LED indicator and plug-in/removable terminal blocks. "We never sacrifice a maintenance-friendly approach," explains Kumar. DC outputs are short-circuit proof.
The 3.5-in. model with 27 PLC I/O sells for $399. We have not seen any similar product with this much horsepower at this price point.
The EZTouch miniPLC is supported by the company's $149, all-in-one development environment for both PLC logic and touch panel graphics. "Drag-and-drop of programming elements in ladder logic greatly simplifies program modifications," Kumar adds, "and HMI edits can be made on the fly without shutting down the machine/process." The software also supports advanced PLC functionalities such as PID, function blocks, floating point math, and high-speed counters; recipe edits via touchscreen; and data logging via USB or network interface. Remote monitoring and control are also available via a smartphone/tablet app.
For more information on the EZTouch miniPLC and other EZAutomation innovations, visit pdt.EZAutomation.com.