Kick off 2026 with a competitive edge at PACK EXPO East. Register now!
Get a jump on your 2026 goals at PACK EXPO East. Put projects in motion, accelerate timelines and solve challenges—all in one trip to Philadelphia.

AutomationDirect: PLC programming software features

AutomationDirect’s Productivity Suite PLC programming software version 2.4 provides two new software communications enhancements for the Productivity series controllers.

PLC programming software features
PLC programming software features

Custom Protocol over Ethernet (CPE) is a new feature that allows programmers to create their own Hex-based communications protocol between the Productivity series CPU and third party Ethernet devices; Ethernet-based ASCII is one possibility with this new feature. Another new option is Productivity Network (ProNET), which allows data sharing between two or more networked Productivity series CPUs. With this feature, users simply broadcast and/or receive data messages “behind the scenes” without the need for any communications instructions in the ladder program.

Productivity series CPUs can support up to 32 unique Global IDs for the networked PLCs in any combination of publishers and subscribers.

Researched List: Engineering Services Firms
Looking for engineering services? Our curated list features 100+ companies specializing in civil, process, structural, and electrical engineering. Many also offer construction, design, and architecture services. Download to access company names, markets served, key services, contact information, and more!
Download Now
Researched List: Engineering Services Firms
The AI revolution in packaging robotics is here
Robots that see variations, adjust grip pressure automatically, accept plain-English commands, and predict their own maintenance. Discover how AI is transforming packaging operations.
Read More
The AI revolution in packaging robotics is here