Volume 1, Issue 10 (Special Edition)

Why use a "smart relay" when you can use a Smart-PAK?

The Smart-PAK is by no means a new controller. However, with the advent of all these "smart relays" now on the market, we have done some research and are providing what we term as a "Smarter solution".

We have just completed a special page addressing seven different "smart-relay" manufacturers and their products. A comparison of the Smart-PAK to these products will reveal just how limited they are and that their cost isn't as inexpensive as you may think.

We have provided pricing for a starter kit that includes software, computer cable and Smart-PAK, that anyone can purchase. As you know, our marketing emphasis is directed towards OEMs, therefore, we have provided our 100+ pc price for production. Pricing includes our 5 year warranty and free factory support.

We are offering two different I/O configurations (6 in / 6 out and 12 in / 12 out) in both 12 VDC and 24 VDC. Should you require a power supply, we have included a link to a source for inexpensive power supplies.

We are providing several variations, depending on your requirements.

1. A basic package with 24 T/C registers, 149 internal relays, and serial port for downloading program

2. An enhanced version with 250 T/C registers, 149 internal relays, serial port with Entertron ASCII protocol

3. An enhanced version with 250 T/C registers, 149 internal relays, serial port with Entertron ASCII protocol and Real Time Clock

4. An enhanced version with 250 T/C registers, 149 internal relays, serial port with Entertron ModBus RTU protocol.

5. An enhanced version with 250 T/C registers, 149 internal relays, serial port with Entertron ModBus RTU protocol and Real Time Clock

If you work with option 1, we have a really low cost version called the Smart-PAK-e

Many smart relays provide a display for programming and limited information. Should your application call for a display, we have provided a few options that we know have worked with the Smart-PAK. Unlike the smart relays, you can actually interface directly through our serial port, giving you more flexibility, without the possibility of your program being compromised. You won't need an expensive communications module.

To learn more about Entertron's Smarter solution, click here

Will the Smart-PAK be a perfect solution in place of a smart relay, 100% of the time? No. The Smart-PAK was designed for DC applications therefore, anyone requiring AC inputs would either need to make a modification or go with a product that offers AC inputs. Our focus is on addressing applications whereby the Smart-PAK will fit.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

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