Smart-PAK / Smart-PAK PLUS

The Smart-PAK was first introduced in 1991, Entertron's first micro PLC. It started off as an inexpensive way to replace a handful of relays, timers and counters. That was more than sufficent when we first introduced the Smart-PAK. As applications became more and more sophisticated, customers began asking for analog capabilites for pressure transducers, variable frequency drives, etc... To address that need, in 1996, Entertron introduced the Smart-PAK PLUS, the industries first micro PLC with 12 bit analog. We started off with capabilities for up to 2 analog inputs and 2 analog outputs.

In addition to the analog capabilities, we made the Smart-PAK PLUS more robust by incorporating 7 amp relay outputs, a second serial port option, networking capabilities. The Micro has morphed from just a simple relay replacer to a sophisticated process device.

We didn't stop with what we had. A customer came to us in 1998 and asked for temperature capabilities. The result of our collaboration was an analog expansion board with capabilities found only in modular systems. The analog expansion board can be configured for up to 8 analog inputs / 4 analog outputs. Of the 8 analog inputs, 4 can be configured as either Type K thermocouples or RTDs. Our competitor's versions typically limit you to one or two temperature inputs. You are only now starting to see this capability in micros.

The Smart-PAK and Smart-PAK PLUS are both leaders when it comes to price and performance. You will see more and more micro PLCs come to market, but none with the capabilities of Entertron's offerings.

Entertron was the first manufacturer to offer a PLC that would run on 12 VDC. Typically used in mobile applications. PLCs are not just used in machinery anymore. We have been on Ambulances, Parade Floats and Battery Powered Air Compressors to name just a few.