Coming out of beta testing at the end of last year, the Gen2 modular conveyor control system from Humphrey Products is the latest addition to what is becoming known as programmable automation controllers (PACs).

These devices bring a new level of computing and controlling power to the scene, according to ARC Research, which coined the PAC term last year. The controls, which have capabilities beyond programmable controllers and PC-based control, manage several tasks at a time while connected to the facility's information system backbone. Furthermore, PACs are modular, making it easy to control automation cells as easily as an entire system.

According to business development director Rich McDonnell, Humphrey's microprocessor-based entry has all logic on board each control unit, and is easy to install and troubleshoot. Gen2 can be used to control any number of conveyor modules.

The bottom line, explains McDonnell, is installation costs are low and flexibility of control maximized as operating conditions and products change.