Terminal Blocks in Kit of Parts?

[Mark Pierce]

I've got a question from Rockwell automation asking what we would like to see them contribute to the kit of parts. They are considering adding terminal blocks to assist in wiring (either robot or operator controls). They are thinking of something like these AB IEC terminal blocks (Initial suggestion was the three level sensor blocks, probably with with some rail, end caps and bus strips) They really would like to contribute something that most teams will use.

Terminals like this are used on virtually all industrial control panels. We've used terminal strips occasionally in past years and they really help organize sensor, switch, and other wiring. They also can provide a good connection point at mechanisms that may need to be removed. If we'd have used them, we would have avoided some of our connection problems in our operator controls last season.

I'll try and summarize opinions from here and IRI Later Sunday or early next week, although additional comments after that may be helpful as well.

Here are the questions:

1. Have you used terminal blocks in your wiring (robot or operator controls)?

2. Would you use these if they were provided in the kit?

3. Any specific part recommendations? (three level, two level, wire size, etc?)

4. Any other AB/Rockwell products you'd suggest?