IDEC Blog

Simplifying control panel wiring: how push-in terminals enhance efficiency in industrial applications

Three common types of terminal block Screw terminal : the traditional option. Spring clamp terminal : an evolution. Push-in terminal : the game-changer. Push-in terminals in their current form are a relatively new invention, but their popularity has rapidly grown. S3 (Safe, Simple, Smart) push-in connection technology enhances the appeal of many IDEC products, from automation devices to industrial components: FC6A PLC HG2J operator interface FT2J integrated PLC+HMI KW2D RFID reader HR2S safety relay module SJ/SU relay sockets HW switches and pilot lights CW flush switches and pilot lights The number and variety of IDEC products with push-in terminals reflects the widespread appeal, ease of use, and revolutionary nature of push-in wiring technology. Watch our timelapse wiring comparison video for control panel switches: A step-by-step guide to removing wires from a push-in terminal Step 1 : press and hold the pusher with a flat blade screwdriver. Step 2 : while holding down the pusher, pull out the wire. Again, it’s simple, and takes less time than loosening screws. On IDEC products with push-in terminals, the release tabs are yellow or orange to make them easier to find. They are essential for removal – pulling on a secured wire in a push-in terminal will add to the amount of force keeping it in place. For industrial users, push-in terminals offer practical solutions Push-in terminal wiring efficiency makes a real difference during control panel wiring. Add on the safety, convenience, and space-saving benefits that push-in terminals provide, and the choice is clear. You can continue to expect frequent product innovations and functional safety developments from IDEC. The rise of push-in terminals for quick, efficient and tool-free wiring When wiring a terminal block with push-in technology, you might feel like you’re missing something: a screwdriver. With screw terminals, you need to loosen the screw, insert the wire, and retighten the screw. With spring clamp terminals, you need a tool to hold the clamp open until the wire is inserted. The extra work time needed to secure each wire soon adds up. With push-in terminals and wires with a crimped ferrule (or solid wires), you don’t need to use a screwdriver at all. Keeping at least one hand free during the wiring process can improve concentration and reduce reaction time if there is an issue. The risk of injury is low, thanks to the IP20 finger-safe protection rating IDEC push-in terminals hold. The more devices and switches that are installed on your control panel, the more wires you need to connect. The more wires you have, the more likely you are to need (and use) terminal blocks to keep them secure and organized. Terminal blocks act as ‘junctions’ for the wiring system, routing tens or hundreds of wires between input and output devices. They can be found behind control panels in many industrial applications (manufacturing, automotive, etc.) where complex electrical systems need to be installed quickly and safely. How to install products with push-in terminals in your control panel Important safety note : make sure that electric power to all control panel devices is off before starting installation, wiring, inspection, maintenance and removal. Failure to do so may create a fire hazard or cause electrical shocks. All terminals need to be mounted securely on a suitable surface. That could be the back of a control panel switch, or on a DIN rail. For contact block mounting : IDEC contact blocks snap onto the back of compatible pushbuttons and indicator lights. Make sure that the locking ring is fastened before attaching the contact block. For DIN rail mounting : The DIN rail should always be horizontal. IDEC products designed to attached to DIN rails clamp or snap into place. IDEC products for control panels are designed to be compact, reducing the panel area and the amount of installation space needed behind it. They give you more room to create the optimum arrangement of terminals and wires. A step-by-step guide to push-in terminal wiring Step 1 : push the wire to the back of the wiring port. Step 2 : give the wire a light pull to confirm it’s connected properly. That’s all you need to do. Using this quick and simple process, time spent on wiring work could be shortened by as much as 55% (compared to wiring a screw terminal). You can see the difference in this socket wiring video:

AMRs: safety without compromising design

As AMRs gain ground, manufacturers are placing increasing emphasis on both functionality and appearance. In this customer project, IDEC helped a leading AMR developer integrate safety edge switches into a curved chassis design while maintaining the required safety performance levels.