One of the many benefits of the CLICK PLUS PLC system is the added versatility of the CPU I/O. Unlike their predecessor, the CLICK PLUS CPUs don't have a fixed set of built-in I/O, but instead offer one or two option slots for customizable I/O configurations. With the option modules available, CLICK PLUS CPUs can be configured in over 400 different ways, including as direct functional replacements for the original CLICK PLCs. Numerous option modules are available to add analog and/or discrete I/O to any CLICK PLUS CPU Discrete in/out combo modules Discrete/analog in/out combo modules Simply insert the desired option slot module(s) into the built-in slot(s) of the CPU for a custom stand-alone PLC CPU I/O can be reconfigured if/when application requirements change Discrete I/O option slot modules support high-speed I/O signals up to 100 kHz (high-speed I/O allowed in slot 0 only) Add the C2-14TTL module to your CLICK PLUS CPU for low-voltage (~5 VDC), high-speed motion control signals.

Specialty option slot modules provide capabilities outside the realm of standard I/O. Several are intelligent, meaning they contain their own processor and do not hinder the performance of the main CPU. Adding a specialty module can enhance any installation with high-level capabilities for an extremely low cost.

Node-RED® – Supercharge your OT/IT convergence

The C2-NRED module combines the most affordable and user-friendly PLC in the industry with one of the most popular open-source software tools in the industrial sector for developing IIoT applications. With the low-code Node-RED® interface, you can easily facilitate interactions between the CLICK PLUS CPU and upper-level IT/business systems. This intelligent module utilizes its own processor, ensuring the main CPU remains unburdened but has direct access to the memory of the PLC and all the data needed. The C2-NRED also supports custom JavaScript programming, extending the CLICK PLUS platform's functionality even further.

Many Node-RED applications in industrial automation utilize off-the-shelf micro-controllers paired with industrial PLCs. This combination is not only susceptible to failure due to non-industrialized micro-controller boards but can also complicate communications and data sharing. Using the C2-NRED slot module with the CLICK PLUS CPU eliminates the need for external micro-controllers and simplifies communications/data exchange.

The user can even determine which controller (PLC or C2-NRED or both) will control the process and several Node-RED nodes are available for working specifically with the CLICK PLUS PLC. Adding the C2-NRED module to your CLICK PLUS controller will guarantee long lasting access to the Node-RED user friendly flow-based interface and extensive node library for your Industrial IoT applications.

What is Node-RED?

Node-RED is a visual programming tool for connecting physical hardware devices, APIs, and online services together as part of the Internet of Things. Node-RED's low-code, drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to create complex flows without writing code. Node-RED has a large library of built-in nodes for various tasks, including input/output, data processing, logic, and social media functions. Node-RED is an open source tool and there is a huge assortment of downloadable nodes available online at https://flows.nodered.org/ including those designed to work with the C2-NRED module. Users can also write custom JavaScript to meet unique requirements, extending the platform's functionality.

 NODE-Red Essentials Video Series

The FREE CLICK PLC programming software integrates Node-RED functions, bridging automated control with advanced IIoT applications

Visually connect nodes to create "flows" that define how data is processed

A vast collection of pre built nodes allow you to connect numerous devices, APIs, and online services

What can Node-RED do?

Node-RED has had millions of downloads and is being applied in many applications, both commercial and industrial. One example is an OEM who makes cotton gins. This OEM used low-code Node-RED programming to connect weather data with their machinery's operations. Their system adjusted processes based on real-time humidity and rain forecasts vital to the cotton industry and even sent text alerts to operators. The Node-RED platform is extremely flexible and offers virtually unlimited possibilities, whether used for simple communication or for complex data analysis.

Create interactive and customer-specific HMI dashboards that can be accessed with any browser.

Easily integrate plant-floor data into existing business systems/databases, e.g., MES or ERP systems like SAP or Oracle.

Access cloud-based services or website APIs for a wealth of information (weather reports, energy/raw material costs, etc.) that can be used to optimize your processes.

Incredible Integration with OPC UA®

OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture) is a long-standing communication protocol used throughout industry and provides a standardized way for industrial systems, regardless of manufacturer, to communicate and share data. OPC UA provides several benefits, including:

• Scalability – capable of large amounts of data transfer no matter the application
• Enhanced security – featuring authentication, authorization, and encryption methods
• Easier installation – provides seamless integration with existing systems containing various manufacturers' products
• Better efficiency – real-time data exchange for process optimization

The C2-OPCUA module when added to a CLICK PLUS CPU allows the simplicity and reliability of CLICK PLCs to be deployed in many more applications. This module integrates the CLICK PLUS CPU seamlessly into an OPC UA network, exposing all of the CLICK I/O and internal registers making the entire CLICK system an intelligent remote I/O rack. With over 158 I/O, that makes the CLICK PLUS with this module one of the lowest cost OPC UA systems available. The industrial rated on-board C2-OPCUA module also improves reliability and reduces overall system costs by eliminating the need for an external OPC UA server device.

CLICK Programming Software

The FREE CLICK programming software stores the C2-OPCUA module configuration into the PLC project for simple project management. Rely on the proven CLICK CPU logic to control the operation, while making use of the C2-OPCUA for connectivity to advanced IT platforms. This combination makes CLICK PLUS a smart and simple solution for plant floor and business system integration.

All article contributions and figures courtesy of AutomationDirect.

For more information about CLICK PLUS capabilities or products, get in touch with our experienced technicians.

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October 2025. This publication may contain references to products produced and/or offered by other companies. The product and company names may be trademarked and are the sole property of their respective owners. Direct Automation Pty Ltd disclaims any proprietary interest in the marks and names of others. All prices shown are trade prices and are exclusive of GST. Prices are subject to change, orders will be accepted at the pricing ruling at the time of our acceptance of orders. Please refer to our online store for current prices. Images for display purposes only and may be generic.