Seeking SMC Pneumatics Advice

[David Doerr]

I'm hoping for advice from SMC users. We've never used pneumatics and are looking to purchase SMC valves and a manifold.

I'm leaning towards purchasing the SY3000 body ported valves (SY3120 and SY3220) and manifold with the "M" connector option because the manifold is smaller and lighter than the base mount manifold and the tubes and wires will protrude from the top of the assembly rather than the sides. I'm thinking that connections at the top of the assembly will be easier to access than ones from the side. I'm thinking how much easier it is to package and access connections to the cRIO in contrast to the Power Distribution module for example.

However, other CD posts I've seen refer to the base mounted style (SY3140 and SY3240).

What has your experience been and why would you prefer one style over the other?

Thanks!