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Cover Story
Museum Practices What It Teaches: Going Green Drives Home the Lesson at Boston Children's Museum

New Product Focus
Pressure Sensors

Product Snapshots
What's New

Technology Brief
Sunlight Efficiency Detector

AUTOMATIONDIRECT PRODUCT AND COMPANY NEWS

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06-15-2008 --- ANOTHER GREAT SEASON FOR AUTOMATIONDIRECT SPONSORED FIRST ROBOTICS TEAM

For the Forsyth Alliance, the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics team sponsored by AutomationDirect, the 2007-2008 season was another successful adventure. In its third year, the team, comprised of students from Forsyth County, GA high schools, continued to expand its mentorship of local FIRST Lego League (FLL) teams, starting or supporting programs in all but three county elementary and middle schools. The team conducted the largest FLL qualifier in Georgia last December, which sent nine teams to the State Tournament.
.......Click here for the complete story.
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06-15-2008 --- AUTOMATION NOTEBOOK
ISSUE 11 IS UP AND READY!

Our eleventh issue of Automation Notebook has hit the streets, and is now here on the site. Our focus this issue is "Going Green."
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02-04-2008 --- AUTOMATION NOTEBOOK
ISSUE 10 IS UP AND READY!

Our tenth issue of Automation Notebook has hit the streets, and is now here on the site. Our focus this issue is motors.
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01-30-2008 --- THE UPS AND DOWNS OF THE ECONOMY

According to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), industrial control shipments continued to grow throughout 2007. Although measures of confidence among manufacturers slipped in the second half of the year, indicators of the industrial sector’s performance remained in solid shape.

Looking ahead, reports from the Manufacturers Alliance (MAPI) indicate that the combination of the credit crunch, housing slowdown and high oil prices will slow GDP growth to just 1.3 percent in 2008. According to a survey by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), large manufacturers expect their capital expenditures to rise by just 0.3%, while small companies expect their investment spending to grow by a stronger 1.6%. For both large and small firms, this is a significant slowdown. These trends are consistent with a slowdown in overall business investment spending that has taken place over the past year. The third quarter survey suggests that investment spending by manufacturers will continue to grow over the next year, but at a slower pace than during the past few years. .......Click here for the complete story.

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10-20-2007 --- CONGRATULATIONS TO THEFORSYTH ALLIANCE FOR EARNING A SLOT AT THE NATIONAL BEST COMPETITION IN AUBURN AL!

The Forsyth Alliance is a team of high school students sponsored by AutomationDirect that participates in several robotics competitions each year. In addition to earning the "National Slot" the team also won the prestigious "Founders Award" for best robto design, and the "Rookie of the Year Award" for best Rookie Team.
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08-30-2007 --- WHO HAS STRONG OPINIONS
ON THE IEC61131 PROGRAMMING
STANDARD FOR DIRECTLOGIC PLCS?

Follow this hot thread on our Tech Forum and add your own two cents. (If you're not a current member, it only takes a minute to register). See our forum and this thread by clicking here.
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08-09-2007 --- TEAM MOJAVATON AND
INSIGHT RACING ADVANCE TO THE
SEMI-FINALS

Dr. Tony Tether, the Director of DARPA, today announced the list of 36 teams that have been chosen to advance to the National Qualification Event (NQE) for the Urban Challenge.   It was exciting to see the two teams sponsored by Automation Direct on the list of invited teams.

Both the semi-finals and the Urban Challenge final race will take place at the former George Air Force Base in Victorville, California.  Victorville is 1 hour northeast of  Los Angeles on Interstate 15.   This facility is currently used for urban combat training and should be ideal for the Urban Challenge events. The NQE will begin on Friday, October 26th and conclude on October 31st.  At that time, DARPA will chose the best 20 teams to advance to the Finals on Saturday, November 3rd. 

More info is available at the DARPA Urban Challenge website: http://www.darpa.mil/grandchallenge/index.asp
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8-08-2007 --- NEW VIDEO ADDED TO
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

A fun new video has been added to the More section of the site: AutomationDirect Movie Theatre Trailer

Our local theatre "...recently invested $130,000 on all new state of the art digital projectors to handle [their] pre-show advertising. This gives our Cumming theatre the capability of running practically any ad, of any length with sound and full animation."

Our company has always taken great pride in showing slides at the local theatre to show support for our troops and project a message of patriotism to members of our community. We often receive letters of appreciation from movie-goers that have seen our “Applaud in support of our troops!” slides.

In response to this new opportunity to expand the scope of our normal slides we created a 30 second AutomationDirect trailer for use with the theaters new system.

This video was created completely in-house and involved countless man hours, helicopter flights and whole-company photo shoots. We hope you enjoy the final product.

If you would like to suggest a video topic please do so here.
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8-02-2007 --- NEW VIDEO ADDED TO
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

Part 2 of a new tutorial series on SureServo Drives & Motors has been added to the Drives/Motors section of the site:
SureServo QuickStart: Part 2, Using Position Register Mode

More tutorials on SureServo Drives & Motors will be added as the series is developed.

If you would like to suggest a video topic please do so here.
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7 -20-2007 --- NEW VIDEO ADDED TO
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

Part 1 of a new tutorial series on SureServo Drives & Motors has been added to the Drives/Motors section of the site: SureServo QuickStart: Part 1, Jogging the Motor

More tutorials on SureServo Drives & Motors will be added as the series is developed.

If you would like to suggest a video topic please do so here.
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7-20-2007 --- TEAM MOJAVATON COMPLETES
ALL MISSIONS FOR DARPA

DARPA officials completed their official site visit with Team Mojavaton on Tuesday, June 26th.  The White Knight  (Mojavaton's autonomous vehicle)  successfully completed all missions and all tasks that DARPA  requested.  Each mission was successively more difficult than the previous, but the White Knight handled each one safely and smoothly.   "We couldn't have asked for a better performance from our car. " reports Jim Crittenden, of Team Mojavaton. 

Some spectator comments overheard during the site visit:

• "Your car drove like it was on rails.  It was always right in the center of its lane.  We watched as it made multiple laps around the course and you could see it running in the same tire tracks each time it went by." 
• "I've never seen a robot car drive so smoothly.  The smooth steering through the corners was amazing to watch.
• "I couldn't believe how fast was it."
• "I wish my teenager could drive that well"
• "It was eerie to watch.  As it came to the intersection and each time made the correct decision on precedence [when to wait and when to go], you couldn't believe that there wasn't a person in there making those decisions."

Click here for our last article about Team Mojavaton, and stay tuned for more news as the second DARPA Grand Challenge approaches.

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7-20-2007 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT
INTRODUCES NEW LINE OF LCD MONITORS


AutomationDirect has added the ATLAS™ line of industrial grade LCD color monitors to its list of products. Available in 15”, 17”, and 19” sizes, the heavy duty TFT flat panel monitors offer superb quality and competitive prices. Offering non-touch and analog resistive touch screen models, their industrial specifications and very thin panel mounted depth (less than 2.75”) make ATLAS™ ideal for factory automation applications.

Housed in heavy-duty steel chassis and powder-coated machined aluminum bezels, all models are equipped with 100-240 VAC input power supplies and NEMA 4/4X/12 panel-mountable front bezels. The full line is also equipped with analog video (VGA) connections, and the “T” models provide USB and RS232 connections for the five-wire analog resistive touch screen. ATLAS™ ATM1500 and 1500T monitors, starting at $995, are designed for harsh industrial environments, including Class I and II, Division 2, hazardous locations. These 15” monitors display all VESA video modes up to 1024x768 with 16 million colors.ATLAS™ ATM1700/1700T monitors (starting at $1,395) and the ATM1900/1900T monitors (starting at $1,695) are also Class I and II, Division 2 rated and accept standard analog VGA input as well as digital DVI video input. These monitors display all VESA video modes up to 1280x1024 with 16 million colors.

The full line of ATLAS™ industrial grade LCD monitors are UL and cUL listed, European CE and RoHS compliant, and are backed by a two-year warranty.

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7-20-2007 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT
INTRODUCES NEW TEMPERATURE
CONTROLLERS

AutomationDirect announces the addition of the new SOLO™ process/temperature controller line to its list of products. With 22 models, 11 of which are priced under $100, these controllers are powerful process tools that offer flexibility and simplicity.
 
Available in four standard DIN sizes (1/4, 1/8, 1/16, and 1/32), each unit is equipped with a dual four-digit, seven-segment display, useful for process variable and setpoint display.  Each model offers dual output control, making it ideal for heating and cooling processes.  Output configurations are available in various combinations of mechanical relays, pulse outputs and voltage or current outputs. The built-in autotune function with PID control feature allows for fast and easy startups. Flexible control modes include PID, Ramp/Soak, ON/OFF and Manual operation. Universal inputs are standard on all controllers, including thermocouple, RTD, milliamp (mA), millivolt (mV) and DC voltage. Select models are equipped with three available alarm groups.

All SOLO™ process/temperature controllers support 13 types of temperature inputs and five types of analog inputs. All units offer RS-485 serial communications, allowing use of free software (downloadable from www.automationdirect.com) to configure and monitor up to eight SOLO™ controllers using Modbus RTU or ASCII protocols. This utility provides the ability to monitor and log historical data and save it to .txt files.  RS-485 serial communications also provides connection to a human-machine interface, PC or PLC, allowing applications to react to data being read from the controllers.

SOLO™ process temperature controllers can also be configured manually with the user-friendly keypad on each unit; with simple programming steps, applications can be up and running quickly.
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7-20-2007 --- I-FLEX FLEXIBLE LIQUID-TIGHT
PVC TUBING AND CONNECTORS FROM
AUTOMATIONDIRECT

AutomationDirect now offers I-Flex flexible liquid-tight PVC tubing and connectors, manufactured by Iboco. The new tubing provides electrical wire protection outside the control cabinet and is suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. I-Flex liquid-tight tubing maintains excellent tensile strength, withstands temperatures from -4°F to +140°F, and provides superb protection where vibration, flexing, and movement exist. Designed for maximum flexibility and for use in extremely tight quarters, I-Flex tubing is available in 30 meter (approximately 98’) rolls and comes in light grey or black. When used with available I-Flex straight and 90 degree connectors, the tubing provides NEC and UL approved protection against water, oil, and other damaging liquids. I-Flex flexible liquid-tight PVC tubing and straight connectors are available in 3/8” to 2” sizes and 90-degree connectors are available up to 1¼” sizes. Prices for tubing starts at $25 (30-meter roll) and connectors start at $18 for a pack of 20. To see the full line, visit www.automationdirect.com.
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6-05-2007 --- FIRST ROBOTICS TEAM
FINISHES EXCITING SECOND SEASON

The Forsyth Alliance, a team of high school students sponsored by AutomationDirect that participates in the FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition, accumulated more experience and awards in their sophomore 2006-2007 season. Teams compete in alliances of three in a game that changes every year. Robots are built in 6 weeks from a common kit of parts provided by FIRST and can weigh up to 120 lbs (excluding battery).

Click here for the complete story.

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6-05-2007 --- BIOFUELS BECOMING A FOCAL
POINT OF ALTERNATIVE FUELS

Biofuel can be defined as the process of converting organic-based matter into burnable fuel as a replacement for fossil fuel. It is a renewable energy source, unlike other natural resources such as petroleum, coal, and nuclear fuels. The production of biofuels has been in active development for years, most recently spurred on by President George W. Bush, who said in his 2006 State of the Union speech that he wants the US to replace 75% of the oil it imports from the Middle East with biofuels by 2025.

Click here for the entire Business Note on Biofuels.
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6-04-2007 --- AUTOMATION NOTEBOOK
ISSUE 9 IS UP AND READY!

Our ninth issue of Automation Notebook has hit the streets, and is now here on the site. Our focus this issue is U.S. manufacturing and how we're evolving to meet tomorrow's changing needs.

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6-01-2007--- CORRECTION TO AUTOMATION
NOTEBOOK ISSUE 9

In the Feature Story section of AutomationNotebook, Issue 9, there was a word omitted in the seventh paragraph. The sentence beginning with, "Inadvertent operation is avoided by vehicle...." should have ended,"...immediately before and after the 'barriers'." The error has been corrected in the online version. We regret any inconvenience this may have caused our readers.
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6-01-2007--- FUSIBLE AND NON-FUSIBLE
DISCONNECT SWITCHES FROM
AUTOMATIONDIRECT

AutomationDirect offers 600 VAC/250 VDC heavy-duty fusible and non-fusible disconnects from Ferraz Shawmut. Meeting UL98 standards, the SIRCO and FUSERBLOC series are designed with the latest disconnect technology available, “make and break” power circuits under load, and are UL, CSA, CE and IEC rated. A wide array of handles is available to meet OSHA padlocking requirements, NEMA configurations, defeater options and NFPA 79 requirements. The SIRCO switches and accessories, starting at $57, are available in 30-800 amp ratings. Available defeatable pistol handles automatically re-latch when the panel door is closed, eliminating the need for tools to reset the latch. FUSERBLOC fusible disconnects and accessories, starting at $85, break up to 200 amps and use double break contacts per pole, isolating the fuse while the switch is in the OFF position. Used with class CC or J fuses, FUSERBLOC switches provide reliable circuit protection. For more information, go to:
www.automationdirect.com/disconnects.
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6-01-2007--- ALLEN-BRADLEY DF1
PROTOCOLS ADDED TO C-MORE MICRO

C-more Micro-Graphic operator interface panels now support Allen-Bradley DF1 protocols when used with the EA-MG-SP1 Communication option module. C-more Micro will now communicate with Allen-Bradley SLC5/03, 5/04, 5/05 and Micrologix 1000, 1200, and 1500 PLCs in half and full duplex. The new drivers also allow full duplex communication with Allen-Bradley’s PLC5. Communication cables for connection to A-B PLCs are available for $20.00. To learn more about C-more Micro, go to:
http://c-moremicro.automationdirect.com.
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6-01-2007--- FIND ANSWERS AT
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

Learn.automationdirect.com is an online streaming tutorial site featuring video tutorials providing product information and training on a variety of industrial control topics. Watch informative 1 to 30 minute segments covering product categories including PLCs, operator interfaces, software, sensors, motor control, drives and motors, and more.

This new learning site is updated regularly, adding more videos covering more products and general information about industrial control. Each page of learn.automationdirect.com also has a link to our suggestions page where you can provide feedback and suggestions on information currently on the site. You can also provide input regarding any tutorial video you would like to see added.

Be sure to check out http://learn.automationdirect.com. Make the site a bookmark in your Favorites section on your Internet browser. We’re sure you will return time and time again.
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6-01-2007--- ABOUT PLCs.COM IS ALL
ABOUT PLCs

AutomationDirect’s newest product-focused Web site features PLCs. AboutPLCs.com pulls together information on the specification, selection, configuration and application of PLCs. Find links to automation sites, training, forums, weblogs and more. AboutPLCs.com also provides in-depth information on AutomationDirect’s DirectLOGIC PLCs. Read Spotlight Feature Stories to learn interesting ways PLCs are used in industrial control. Keep up to date with the latest news headlines in the world of manufacturing. To see more, visit www.aboutplcs.com.
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5-18-2007--- NEW LOWER PRICES ON
C-MORE TOUCH PANELS!

C-more touch panel prices have been lowered an average of 12%, some units as much as 20%. C-more’s ease of use and reliability can now benefit applications where previously only discrete devices or text panels fit the budget. C-more touch panels now start at $395.00 for a 6-inch STN greyscale unit.

Go here to view the complete product list and new prices.
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4-25-2007--- CURRENT SENSORS
NOW AVAILABLE

AutomationDirect's high performance current transducers and switches are available in split-core or fixed-core models and offer outstanding features, flexibility and durability. All models carry a five-year warranty. ACT and ACTR current transducers have field-selectable current input ranges up to 200 A and industry standard 4-20 mA or 0-10 VDC outputs. The ACTR series combines a current transducer and a True RMS signal conditioner into one unit. Current transducer prices start at $73.00. The ACS150, ACS200 and ACSX series of current operated switches combine a current transformer, signal conditioner and limit alarm in one package. Features include current input ranges up to 200 A and isolated solid-state outputs. The ACSX series has a field-adjustable time delay. Current switch prices start at $63.00.
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4-25-2007 --- FERRAZ SHAWMUT FUSIBLE AND NON-FUSIBLE DISCONNECTS FOR CIRCUIT PROTECTION

AutomationDirect has added 600 VAC / 250 VDC heavy-duty fusible and non-fusible disconnects from Ferraz Shawmut to our list of current protection products. Meeting UL98 standards, the SIRCO and FUSERBLOC series are designed with the latest disconnect technology available, "make and break" power circuits on load, and are UL, CSA, CE and IEC rated. A wide array of handles is available for OSHA padlocking requirements, NEMA configurations, defeater options and NFPA 79 requirements. SIRCO series non-fusible disconnects start at $57.00 and the FUSERBLOC series of fusible disconnects and accessories start at $85.00.
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3-06-2007--- NEW VIDEOS ADDED TO
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

In the PLC Hardware section there is a new tutorial series on the C-More Property List (3 parts)If you would like to suggest a video topic please fill out the short survey located here.
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3-01-2007 --- NEWEST PRODUCT WEB SITE OFFERS IN-DEPTH PLC INFORMATION

AutomationDirect has expanded its range of product-focused Web sites to include PLCs. Visitors to www.aboutplcs.com can find in-depth information on the full line of DirectLOGIC PLCs, as well as general PLC selection and configuration guides. Much of the information has been available on other AutomationDirect sites, but this site collects all PLC-specific topics in one convenient location.

Check out www.aboutplcs.com
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2-20-2007--- NEW VIDEOS ADDED TO
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

A Pre-Recorded Webinar has been added to the Software Products section: DirectSoft5: IBox Part 2, Communications (4 parts) If you would like to suggest a video topic please fill out the short survey located here.
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2-19-2007--- NEW VIDEOS ADDED TO
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

In the Operator Interfaces section there is a new tutorial series on the C-More Property List (3 parts)If you would like to suggest a video topic please fill out the short survey located here.
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2-6-2007--- NEW VIDEOS ADDED TO
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

A Pre-Recorded Webinar titled Who is AutomationDirect? (6 parts) has been added to the More section of the site.

Topics covered in this tutorial include:

• AutomationDirect’s background and history
• Conversion from PLC Direct to AutomationDirect
• Our location
• Services we provide
• Product offering
• How to purchase from us
• Resources and tools we offer our customers

If you would like to suggest a video topic please fill out the short survey located here.
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2-1-2007--- NEWEST PRODUCT WEB SITE
OFFERS IN-DEPTH PLC INFORMATION

AutomationDirect has expanded its range of product-focused Web sites to include PLCs. Visitors to www.aboutplcs.com can find in-depth information on the full line of DirectLOGIC PLCs, as well as general PLC selection and configuration guides. Much of the information has been available on other AutomationDirect sites, but this site collects all PLC-specific topics in one convenient location.

Other product sites available include:
http://c-more.automationdirect.com (touch panels),
http://www.c-moremicro.com (small touch/text panels),
www.durapulse.com (AC drives) and
www.sureservo.com
(AC servo systems).
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2-1-2007--- FIRST ROBOTICS TEAM
DEVELOPING SEGWAY COMPANION
PRODUCT

The Forsyth Alliance, a team of high school students sponsored by AutomationDirect that participates in the FIRST (For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition, is working with an Alpharetta, Georgia Segway distributor to develop a companion product to the Segway, the two-wheeled automated people mover created by Dean Kamen (also founder of the FIRST organization). The new product, conceived by Electric Avenue owner Scott Holloway, is a wagon-like vehicle capable of transporting intermediately heavy loads while automatically following behind a Segway. The students are using the knowledge they gained from designing robots in the FIRST Robotics Competition to create a prototype for Electric Avenue. Their prototype has been dubbed the “Otto-Pallet” in honor of their rookie year robot, Otto Mation, who sported the green smiley face mascot of AutomationDirect. For more information and updates on the Forsyth Alliance and their activities, visit:
www.forsythalliance.com.
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2-1-2007--- TECHNOLOGY AND INDUSTRY-
FOCUSED TRADE SHOWS STILL
ATTRACTING AUDIENCES

While it seems that some national industrial trade shows in the U.S. are struggling to attract audiences, some long-standing technology and industry-focused shows are still doing well. Two examples are the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) and PACK EXPO, both held in Chicago this past fall. Focused on new manufacturing technology, IMTS is one of the largest trade shows in the world. Its popularity reflects the fact that capacity utilization in the U.S. reached 81% last year and manufacturers are looking for new ways to add capacity to keep up with demand. Figures released at IMTS 2006 revealed that overall U.S. manufacturing technology consumption was up 24.4% in 2006, according to a joint statistical study by the Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT) and the American Machine Tool Distributors’ Association (AMTDA). IMTS 2006 final attendance count was 91,985, according to AMT spokesman Robert Gardner, and machinery sales at the show were at record highs.

The PACK EXPO shows focus on the latest developments in packaging technology and showcase exhibitors’ state-of-the-art advances in packaging machinery, converting machinery, materials, packages and containers, and components. PACK EXPO continues to attract a large audience; in 2006 it garnered over 71,000 in total attendance.
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2-1-2007--- LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM LAUNCHES WITH PRE-RECORDED
TUTORIALS

AutomationDirect’s new learning site,
http://learn.automationdirect.com, launched in November 2006 with pre-recorded tutorials and presentations on a range of topics, including selecting a PLC, HMI and PLC software features and the basics of sensors. Each product section of the site also has a list of links to relevant information on other AutomationDirect sites, including the main store, Automation Notebook and product sites such as aboutplcs.com. Visitors can also provide suggestions for additional tutorial topics.
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1-22-2007--- NEW VIDEOS ADDED TO
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM

A Pre-Recorded Webinar featuring Ethernet Communcations (6 parts) has been added to the PLC Hardware section of the site.

In the Operator Interfaces section there are new tutorial videos on C-More Multi-Language Support (3 parts) and use of the C-More Screen Library (1 video).

The Software Products section has two new tutorials on DirectSoft5: Navigating DS Launch (1 video) and Editing the DS500ini File (1 video).

If you would like to suggest a video topic please fill out the short survey located here.
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1-11-2007--- NEW DRIVERS FOR C-MORE
MICRO

C-more Micro now supports AB DF1 protocols - both full and half duplex, and PLC5 DF1. Download the new software version here. Remember that a power adapter is required when connecting to a non-AutomationDirect PLC. More info on the power adapter and the DF1 cables is available here.
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11-20-2006 ---LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM IS LIVE!

Learn.AutomationDirect.com is an online streaming tutorial site offering training and information on a wide range of practical automation products. The site, http://learn.automationdirect.com, will be updated frequently, and content creation will be fueled by user suggestions and feedback. If possible, please take the time to fill out the short "Suggestions" form (links to the "Suggestions" form are at the bottom of every page).
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9-26-2006 --- C-MORE MICRO GRAPHIC
TOUCH PANELS NOW AVAILABLE!

With a 3" touch screen, 5 function keys, and a five color backlight, C-more Micro packs many of the features of the full size C-more panels into a small, cost-effective package. Designed to replace text-only panels, C-more Micro displays text andgraphics at a text panel price. The free (downloadable) programming software is similar to - and just as easy to use - as the full-size C-more programming package.  Optional keypad bezels offer additional flexibility. Prices start at $139 for the non- touch version and $189 for the touch-enabled panel.  Visit the store, or our new C-more Micro product website to learn more.  

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8-09-2006 --- AUTOMATION NOTEBOOK
ISSUE 7 IS UP AND READY!

Our seventh issue of Automation Notebook has hit the streets, and is now here on the site. Our focus this issue is our oil based economy and what it takes to fuel our Countries' addiction.

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8-5-2006 ---
LEARN.AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM WILL
OFFER PRE-RECORDED TUTORIALS

AutomationDirect's live Web seminars have covered a wide range of subjects, including PLC programming, HMI, and Ethernet networking. Now these and more topics will also be covered by a new learning site, where users can view in-depth product overviews and tutorials at their own pace and convenience. The site, http://learn.automationdirect.com, will be updated frequently, and will offer not only product-specific information, but also links to additional education on topics of general interest. The site is planned for launch in 4th quarter 2006.

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8-5-2006 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT'S
GROWTH REQUIRES ADDITIONAL
TECHNICAL PROFESSIONALS

In recent years, AutomationDirect has expanded into new product areas as well as increased its customer base dramatically. To support this growth, professionals in the areas of Technical Support, IT/programming and Product Management are needed at the headquarters facility outside Atlanta, Georgia. The company offers excellent benefits, a casual yet productive work environment, and competitive compensation, including profit sharing. To view current open positions requirements and to submit an online application, visit jobs.automationdirect.com

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8-5-2006 --- NEW AC DRIVES TRAINING CLASS OFFERED BY INTERCONNECTING AUTOMATION INC.

Interconnecting Automation Inc., led by the highly-respected automation products trainer Doug Bell, will begin offering two-day classes in AC Drives in the fall of 2006. Topics covered include AC induction motor and variable frequency drive fundamentals, VFD power circuit analysis, installation requirements and best practices in preventive and corrective maintenance. Hands-on exercises with drives and motors familiarize the student with real-world conditions and performance. The class is being taught by Dave Cavanaugh, whose experience includes a 20-year Navy career as an Interior Communications Electrician and Gas Turbine Systems Electrical Technician and 19 years as a Field Service and Technical Support Engineer for Eaton Electrical. His teaching experience includes three years as a Navy instructor on gas turbines. Cavanaugh is currently Technical Training Manager for Superior Drives Services, Inc. with duties that include developing and conducting technical training, and assisting with Field Service. The cost for the two-day seminar is $649 per person, which includes a discount coupon for a drive purchase from AutomationDirect.

The tentative schedule for the Drives Training Course includes the following dates and locations:

• Sept. 19-20, 2006, Atlanta GA*

• Nov. 14-15, 2006, Chicago IL

• Feb. 6-7, 2007, Cleveland OH

• March 13-14, 2007, Irvine CA

• May 15-16, 2007, Atlanta GA*

(*Classes held at AutomationDirect headquarters in Cumming, GA.)

For more information and to register, visit
www.interconnectingautomation.com

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8-5-2006 --- FIRMWARE SUBSCRIPTION
SERVICE HELPS KEEP INSTALLED
PRODUCTS UP TO DATE

AutomationDirect now offers e-mail notification of updates to the firmware of its products. The user can subscribe and receive updates for as many product groups as desired. Product groups include all DirectLOGIC PLC families, and the C-more touch panels. Once notified, the user can visit the AutomationDirect Web site and download the updated firmware. To subscribe to the service, only a valid e-mail address is required, and it is not shared with any third party. Visit http://notify.automationdirect.com/firmware

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8-5-2006 --- MAPI REPORTS SOLID
MANUFACTURING GROWTH IN 2006,
PREDICTS SLIGHTLY SLOWER IN 2007

According to a recent press release from MAPI, a leading executive development and business research organization, solid growth for the manufacturing sector in 2006 will likely be followed by some deceleration in 2007. According to the Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI Quarterly Industrial Outlook (ER-607e), first quarter 2006 figures show that 21 of the 27 industries tracked in the report had inflation-adjusted new orders or production above the level of one year ago, indicating broad-based growth in the industrial sector.

Top industry performers in the first quarter, recording year-over-year double-digit growth, were mining and oil and gas field machinery (42%); communications equipment (27%); aerospace products and parts (18%); construction machinery (17%); navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments (15%); semiconductors (15%); electrical equipment (14%); and oil and gas well drilling (11%).

Daniel J. Meckstroth, Ph.D., Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI Chief Economist and author of the analysis, reports that five industries are expected to enjoy double-digit growth in 2006, but only one is expected to hit that benchmark in 2007. In 2006, communications equipment should rise by a robust 22%; mining and oil and gas field machinery is likely to increase by 17%; aircraft and parts growth should jump 15%; navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments is expected to gain by 11%; and electrical equipment is slated to rise by 10%. Following growth of 9% in 2006, computer equipment production is likely to grow by 13% in 2007.

The Alliance expects some deceleration in manufacturing industrial production by 2007. Factors for the retrenchment include higher long-term interest rates, increased cost of energy for business, high gasoline prices for consumers, and a growing trade imbalance, among others. Manufacturing industrial production grew 3.9% in 2005 and should grow 4.6% in 2006 before decelerating to 2.5% growth in 2007.

“Costs are important,” Meckstroth explained. “Manufacturing is relatively energy-intensive and the run-up in energy prices and other commodities will encourage conservation and reduce the growth rate of manufactured products. Equally important are interest rates and housing prices. Spending for motor vehicles, housing, and other big ticket items are expected to fall this year and next. Capital equipment spending cannot compensate for all the moderation in consumer durables next year.”

For more information about industry trends and MAPI, visit http://www.mapi.net

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6-19-2006 --- C-MORE PROGRAMMING
SOFTWARE NOW OFERS DATA-LOGGING, PANEL PASS-THROUGH, AND EXPANDS FOREIGN LANGUAGE SUPPORT.

Version 1.21.6.18A  is now shipping, and available for download.  Owners of any previous version can download the new version at no charge, and the demo version is also a free download.  Visit our tech support site to download the software - or the demo.

The data logging feature is now available. Up to 16 PLC tags per trend object can be logged periodically, or whenever a trigger tag is activated. Data can be stored onto compact flash cards, or to USB flash drives.  Programmers can even use the event manager to e-mail or FTP the log data to a remote computer.  Click here for more about data-logging.The new "Panel Pass-through" feature allows a C-more panel  to access PLC data from PLCs attached to other
C-more panels via an Ethernet connection.   Click here for more about panel pass-through.

C-more now supports even more languages: Chinese, Chinese (Taiwan), English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, & Thai.  Programmers enter the alternate text and labels for C-more objects in up to 9 languages, and then operators can switch between languages with the push of a button.  Click here for more about Multiple Language Support.

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3-16-2006 --- FORSYTH ALLIANCE,
ROOKIE ROBOTICS TEAM, WINS AWARDS

The Forsyth Alliance, a rookie robotics team sponsored by AutomationDirect made up of students from North and South Forsyth High schools , recently competed in its Regional for the 15th Annual FIRST Robotics competition at the Gwinnett Civic Center . The team had 42 days to design, build, test, and ship a man-sized robot for the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) competition. By the end of the three-day Regional on March 16-18, the team's robot, named “Otto,” placed 15 th out of 45 teams, was chosen for the final matches on Saturday,  and although not part of the final winning alliance, walked away with the “Rookie All-Star” award . This award “celebrates a rookie team exemplifying a young but strong partnership effort, as well as implementing the mission of FIRST: to inspire students to learn more about science and technology.” Winning the All-Star award guaranteed Otto a spot in the National championships in April at the Georgia Dome in downtown Atlanta . The team also won the “Imagery” award , which “celebrates attractiveness in engineering and outstanding visual aesthetic integration of the machine and team appearance.”  View archived videos of many of the recent Regionals on the NASA site , which will also stream the Championship live, so if you can't come by in person, check it out on the Web on April 28 and 29.

Click to enlarge

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3-16-2006 --- AUTOMATION NOTEBOOK
ISSUE 6 IS UP AND READY!

Our sixth issue of Automation Notebook has hit the streets, and is now here on the site. Our focus this issue is the technology being used to cleanup after Hurricane Katrina.

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3-01-2006 --- LOWER PRICES ON DRIVES
AND MOTORS

AutomationDirect announces lower prices on its GS1, GS2, and DURApulse drives and Marathon motors. Now save an average of 18% on the complete line of GS1, GS2, and DURApulse variable frequency drives. The Marathon lines of MicroMAX, Black Max, Blue Max, and Blue Chip inverter duty motors have been reduced 10%. Prices now start at $99.

Visit the store for more information or to place an order.

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3-01-2006 --- DISCUSSION FORUMS A
GOOD WAY TO GET ANSWERS (OR AT
LEAST OPINIONS!)

In the Internet-enabled world, users of automation products have a wealth of technical information available to them. Suppliers' sites typically offer data sheets, manuals, and selection guides for their own products, while industry sites tend to focus on technology and applications. Sometimes there are questions that just can't be answered by the published documents, and for that, many designers turn to their peers in the discussion forums that have sprung up on suppliers' and user sites. One of the earliest forums was the Automation List, and there are now literally hundreds of sites where topics from PLCs to PCs allow users to pose questions or problems and get ideas or solutions from others across the globe. A few of the more well-known sites are:

www.plcs.net - Site focuses on PLC training and PLC system/application questions

www.control.com - Online community of control and automation engineers with forum topics such as Applications, Automation Business, HMI and Open Control. Encompasses the Automation List. Go to extensive link page

http://www.control.com/links_page for other informational sites.

www.automation.com - Site that features new products and job listings for automation professionals, also has a technical discussion list

http://cr4.globalspec.com - Subsite of globalspec.com, encompasses a wide range of engineering and industry
topics, including patents and engineering failures

Of course, suppliers such as AutomationDirect (http://forum1.automationdirect.com) and National Instruments (http://forums.ni.com) maintain forums
that focus on applications and questions regarding their
own products.

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3-01-2006 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT
RECOGNIZED BY READERS CHOICE
AWARDS FOR FIFTH YEAR

For the fifth consecutive year, the Readers Choice Awards, an unaided survey performed by Control Design magazine, has recognized AutomationDirect's products and service as being tops in the industry. AutomationDirect received the highest scores of any supplier for technical support in the categories of Operator Interface, PLCs, PLC software, Power Supplies, I/O and Motor Starters.

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3-01-2006 --- FIRST ROBOTICS TEAM
SPONSORED BY AUTOMATIONDIRECT
HITS THE GROUND RUNNING

The Forsyth Alliance is a team of Atlanta area high school students, sponsored by AutomationDirect, participating in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) organization's 15th Annual Robotics competition. They spent the fall months of 2005 building the previous year's game robot to gain the experience needed to hit the ground running in January, when this year's competition was officially launched. Skills the students learned in those twelve weeks included microprocessor programming, principles of servos, hydraulics and pneumatics, welding, CAD and 3-D modeling programs, and more.

(See www.forsythalliance.com/photos.htm for pictures of the completed test robot in operation.)

At local Kickoff meetings in January, all teams were shown this year's game field for the first time and received a common parts kit and manual of game rules and regulations. Registered teams have 42 days to take the 300-lb. pile of parts and design, build, test and ship a 130-lb. man-sized robot to a FIRST regional competition in their area starting in March 2006. Over 1,100 teams of high school students from the U.S., Brazil, Canada, Ecuador, Israel, Mexico and the U.K. are expected to participate in this year's competition.

The game this year is named "Aim High", and is set up similar to a basketball court. On each end is a wall with three goals. The objective is simple - to shoot, push or roll balls through any of the goals for pro-rated points. The game consists of three periods in which two alliances of three robot teams each compete against each other. In the first period, one team alliance is on offense, the other is on defense. In the second period, the roles reverse. During the final period of the game, both goals are turned back on and both alliances can score. During the last 40-second period, teams need to get all three robots in their alliance up on a platform in front of each station wall to obtain bonus points. Teams winning their regional competitions will move on to the World Championship event being held in April at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.

For more information about FIRST and the
competition, visit http://www.usfirst.org

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1-15-2006 --- SURESERVO™ NOW
SHIPPING

The SureServo family of fully digital AC brushless servo system includes eight standard servo motors, in both brake and non-brake models, that can be operated in combination with one of three standard servo drives. The drives range in size from 100W to 3kW continuous power, provide from 0.08 to 26.4 ft-lb of peak torque, and can be controlled in position, velocity or torque mode. Configuration and diagnostics of the servo drives is performed via the built-in keypad/display or the SureServo Pro™ software. All SureServo systems offer both a manual tuning mode and two adaptive auto-tuning modes. Low-inertia models range incrementally from 100W to 1kW with speeds up to 5000 rpm, and medium-inertia models from 1 to 3kW with speeds up to 3000 rpm. Motor pricing starts at $319 and drives at $479. Accessories include motor feedback and power cables, and regeneration resistors. Visit www.sureservo.com for more information, or go directly to the store to order.

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1-15-2006 --- NEW ULTRASONIC AND
OTHER PHOTOELECTRIC SENSORS

The UHZ miniature ultrasonic through-beam series is available with an 18-30 VDC input supply range and PNP or NPN transistor outputs, and has a maximum sensing distance of 300 mm. The FARS series, starting at $45, are 18 mm non-metal tubular diffuse sensors featuring background suppression. The MQ series AC diffuse photoelectric, with a unique 90-degree optic package, fits in a standard 18 mm mounting bracket or mounting hole. These 20-250 VAC sensors with background suppression feature an M12 disconnect. Prices start at $59. The 8 mm tubular stainless steel HEE/HER series consists of through-beam sensor pairs available in a choice of 10-30 VDC PNP or NPN transistor outputs. Prices start at $80 for an emitter/receiver through-beam pair. Visit the store for more information or to place an order.

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12-1-2005 --- THIN-FINGER WIRE DUCT
FOR COMPACT WIRING

The T1E series thin-finger wire duct is now available for applications requiring compact wiring. Available in white or gray in sizes ranging from 1.00 x 1.50 inches to 4.00 x 4.00 inches, the T1E series is made of rigid PVC and carries a UL 94V-0 flammability rating. The narrow thin-finger design is compatible with thinner screwless terminal blocks. All wiring duct is sold in 2-meter lengths and comes complete with a non-slip flush cover. Duct with cover is available in cases or as single pieces, starting at $14 for a single piece. Visit the store for more information or to place an order.

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11-10-2005 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT'S
NEXT-GENERATION OPERATOR TOUCH
PANEL LINE, C-more™, IS NOW
AVAILABLE!

AutomationDirect's next-generation operator touch panel line, C-more™, is now available in either grayscale (15 shades of gray) or full color models (256 to 64,536 colors, depending on model). STN grayscale and color displays are available in a 6-inch touch screen. Color TFT touch screens are available in 6, 8, 10, 12 or 15-inch versions.  Hardware features include an analog touch screen, 10MB or 40MB project memory (depending on model), serial RS232, RS422/485 and Ethernet 10/100BaseT ports, and two USB ports. Optional Compact Flash cards up to 1GB or USB memory devices can be installed in most models to accommodate alarm, event and message logging. C-more configuration software includes 4,000 built-in symbols and 14 typefaces with hundreds of font sizes. Advanced graphic features include animation of bitmaps, overlapping objects and custom object creation. High-level communication capabilities include a built-in FTP server, e-mail client and Web server. A project simulator allows the developer to view and test a C-more project on the PC screen exactly as it would appear on the touch panel. Prices start at $425 for the 6-inch STN grayscale unit, and the C-more programming software is $129. Visit http://c-more.automationdirect.com for an interactive tour of the product line, or go directly to the store to order.

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9-30-2005 --- AUTOMATION NOTEBOOK
ISSUE 5 IS UP AND READY!

Our fifth issue of Automation Notebook has hit the streets, and is now here on the site. Our focus this issue is the 2005 NEC® Code changes.

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9-30-2005 --- CORRECTION IN
AUTOMATION NOTEBOOK ISSUE 5

In the FYI section of AutomationNotebook, Issue 5, there was an error in the placement of the diagrams within the article. The diagrams have been restructured in the online version to match the coordinating text. We regret any inconvenience this may have caused our readers.

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9-15-2005 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT
SPONSORS LOCAL FIRST ROBOTICS TEAM FOR 2005-06 COMPETITION

AutomationDirect is sponsoring a group of local high school students who have formed a team called the Forsyth Alliance to compete in the FIRST robotic competition.  The FIRST organization was founded in 1989 by Dean Kamen, inventor of the Segway, to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people. Registered teams have 42 days to take a 300-lb. pile of parts and design, build, test and ship a 130-lb. man-sized robot to accomplish this task, competing in the FIRST regional competition at the Gwinnett Civic Center in March 2006.  If successful, they will be invited to attend the World Competition in Atlanta in April. Over 23,000 students on 1000 teams from around the world participated in FIRST last year. Read the full article to learn more!

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9-15-2005 --- NANOTECHNOLOGY FOR
INDUSTRY

One of the many technologies that seems to be making the transition from theoretical science to possible practical application is nanotechnology. A combination of engineering and chemistry, this area of research focuses on the manipulation of objects measured in nanometers (a billionth of a meter) or, to help envision the size in practical terms, approximately one fifty-thousandth the diameter of a human hair. Methods developed in the laboratory allow the construction of devices or materials atom-by-atom. Atomic or molecular manipulation is already benefiting many industries, such as medicine, manufactured goods and materials manufacturing. The miniaturization of electronics by scaling down has made those goods smaller and less expensive in recent years, but has just about reached its physical limits. Nanotechnology promises to take the process much further. In the September 2003 issue of IEEE Spectrum, it was reported that the Samsung Group in Seoul, South Korea, had demonstrated a full-color 38-inch display using carbon nanotubes that can handle normal video frame rates. Such a display promises higher resolution, better image quality, and more efficient operation than the best liquid-crystal display or plasma screens on the market today. Applications in other industries include The Gap clothing store, which in 2003 began selling pants impregnated with a new stain-resistant chemical developed with nanotechnology.
For a basic description of nanotechnology and its possible uses, see
http://science.howstuffworks.com/nanotechnology.htm. For more detailed information on the science and its progress, visit www.ieee.org and search
on "nanotechnology."

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9-15-2005 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT
EXHIBITS AT ISA SHOW IN MEXICO

In June, AutomationDirect participated in its third ISA Expo Control show in Mexico City, Mexico. The company has been actively marketing products in Mexico for 3 years, working with a local distributor, Lasso, located in Monterrey. This year's show was the best so far; many attendees indicated their awareness of AutomationDirect because of the annual trade shows and other marketing campaigns. This year's booth featured a slide presentation of product highlights, as well as a tutorial on how to use the Web site for selecting and purchasing products. There were also interactive demos and product displays, including PLCs, drives and HMI.

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8-15-2005 --- RSS FEED KEEPS WEB
VISITORS INFORMED

News comes fast at AutomationDirect. While we'd like to think that our Web sites are a daily destination, we know in reality that they are likely just one of the many sites that you visit, and that keeping up with the latest news can be very difficult. To help you stay on top, we've begun publishing our own RSS feed. It's updated any time we have news such as a new product, updated firmware, a new issue of Automation Notebook, and so on. RSS is basically a file format used by Web sites to syndicate news. Using free or inexpensive programs called newsreaders (or "aggregators"), it is possible to track dozens or even hundreds of Web sites for updates in a very small amount of time. Your newsreader automatically scans the RSS feeds you specify, so you don't have to visit each site individually wondering if anything has changed.   News comes to you on your schedule.  RSS feeds (also called "news feeds") are all over the Web - major media like the New York Times and the BBC all the way down to individual weblogs offer news via RSS. Are you already reading RSS feeds? Subscribe to AutomationDirect's by putting this link,  http://lists.automationdirect.com/news.xml, into your newsreader. If you're curious and would like to learn more about RSS and newsreaders, this Wall Street Journal column is a good place to start:   http://ptech.wsj.com/archive/ptech-20050505.html

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6-24-2005 --- NEW 2005
AUTOMATIONDIRECT CATALOG,
VOLUME 10 HITS THE STREETS

Our new 2005 Catalog has 1750+ pages of descriptions, technical data, photos, and price lists for over 5500 industrial automation products. Request your FREE catalog today
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4-20-2005 --- EDITOR'S CHOICE AWARD FOR THE H2EBC/ECOM100 ETHERNET
MODULES

AutomationDirect received a 2004 Control Engineering Editors' Choice Award for the H2-EBC and ECOM 100 Ethernet modules, presented at an awards ceremony during National Manufacturing Week in Chicago. This award represents the opinions of the editors that the products are among the most significant innovations featured in Control Engineering magazine during the past year. These modules bring high-speed 100Mbit Ethernet-based data exchange for I/O control or peer networking among DL205 PLCs.
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4-20-2005 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT
EXHIBITS AT NATIONAL MANUFACTURING WEEK IN CHICAGO

AutomationDirect exhibited in the Industrial Automation show at National Manufacturing Week for the second year in a row March 7-10. The 2,000 square foot booth consisted of displays featuring industrial control products and an "Automation I.Q. Challenge". The Challenge consisted of three interactive equipment stations designed to test basic knowledge of PLCs, HMI and AC drives. The panels were built and programmed by BizWareDirect, whose DataLynx data collection software extracted the test data via wireless modem, and then compiled and displayed the scores. Almost 200 attendees participated, with the high scorer each day winning a Laser Tool Kit. Also, AutomationDirect's upcoming products were displayed upstairs on the second floor.
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4-11-2005 --- CORRECTION IN
AUTOMATION NOTEBOOK ISSUE 1

In the User Solutions section of Automation Notebook, Issue 1, there was an error in the name of the featured company. TDS stands for Turbine Diagnostic Services. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please click here to visit the TDS Web site. Or here to read the corrected article.
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4-05-2005 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT
ASSISTS TEAM BUFFALO IN 2005 DARPA CHALLENGE

Team Buffalo , a small group of highly talented individuals skilled in bringing abstract technical visions from conception to reality, has committed to participating in a Defense Department research and development initiative aimed at advancing robotics technologies for future military use. Read this article
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2-02-2005 --- ISSUE 3 OF AUTOMATION
NOTEBOOK IS UP AND READY!

Our third issue of Automation Notebook has hit the streets, and is now here on the site. Our theme this issue is communications, and you'll find articles on history, technology trends, and practical discussions on using communications in control systems.
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01-31-2005 --- NOW FIND ALL OUR FULL-LENGTH APPLICATION STORIES HERE

Just added! Click on the "All Application Stories" link to see a variety of full-length articles on how AutomationDirect's customers are applying their products.
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01-15-05 --- AUTOMATIONDIRECT WINS
READER'S CHOICE SERVICE AWARDS
FOR FOURTH YEAR

Control Design magazine, an Industrial OEM (Machine Builder) and Integrator magazine, performs an annual survey in the late fall each year, asking their readers open-ended questions on who they feel has the best products and services in the industry. This type of survey, often called “unaided” since no names are suggested, is typically viewed as the most objective research available. For the fourth consecutive year, AutomationDirect received the highest service scores of any controls supplier in a variety of categories. In 2004, these categories were PLCs, Terminal Blocks and I/O systems. The company also received the second highest score in the Operator Interface category.
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01-15-05 --- PHASE MOTION CONTROL
APPOINTS MICHIGAN INDUSTRIAL