Automation Nation: Inside Barnum

In this episode of Automation Nation: Inside Barnum, we sit down with Nikki the Director of Business Development from Weintek USA to talk about who Weintek is, how they approach the industrial automation market, and why their HMI and gateway solutions have become such a strong fit for real-world machine builders and manufacturers.We cover Weintek’s product lineup, including their operator interface technology, remote access capabilities, communication options, and the flexibility they bring when connecting different devices, controllers, and networks on the plant floor. We also talk through what makes Weintek stand out from a usability, support, and value standpoint.Beyond the products, this conversation highlights the importance of strong partnerships between manufacturers, distributors, and customers. We discuss how working with a distributor like H.H. Barnum helps bring application knowledge, local support, and hands-on experience into the conversation when selecting and applying automation technology.If you’re a controls engineer, machine builder, integrator, or anyone looking to better understand where Weintek fits in the automation space, this episode is a great overview of the company, the technology, and the partnership behind it.Learn more about Weintek USA: https://www.weintekusa.com/Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

Kicking off the 2026 Automation Trailer Tour, this episode of Automation Nation: Inside Barnum features Scott Tessier, the driver and application specialist behind the trailer as it hits the road for another busy season.We talk about what goes into preparing the trailer for tour, the kinds of automation solutions and demos people can expect to see this year, and what it’s like bringing hands-on technology directly to customers, distributors, and events across the region. Scott also shares some behind-the-scenes insight on life on the road, common questions he gets during stops, and why the trailer continues to be such a valuable way to showcase real automation solutions in action.If you’ve ever wondered what the trailer tour is all about, how it comes together, or what makes it such a unique part of what we do at Barnum, this is a great episode to start with as we launch the 2026 season.Learn more about the Automation Trailer: https://www.hhbarnum.com/services/factory-automation-tours/Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast “Automation Nation: Inside Barnum”In today’s episode of Automation Nation: Inside Barnum, we’re putting the spotlight on what’s new from Contrinex. First up is the Contrinex Smart 3D Camera, built to make 3D sensing more approachable for common automation tasks like presence verification, measurement, and part inspection, without turning your project into a science experiment. We’ll walk through what it is, how it fits into a typical controls architecture, and the kinds of applications where 3D vision can shine.We’ll also demo the upgraded Double Blank Sensor, now fully IO-Link controlled, which opens the door to easier setup, cleaner diagnostics, and more flexibility when you need reliable double-sheet detection. We’ll cover what’s improved, how IO-Link changes the way you commission and troubleshoot it, and what to pay attention to when you’re selecting and integrating it, as well as other uses for this unique sensor. If you’re looking for practical takeaways on applying Contrinex sensing in the field, this one’s for you.Learn more about Contrinex and the products featured today: https://www.us.contrinex.com/collections/smart-camera-3dhttps://www.us.contrinex.com/Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"In this week’s episode of Automation Nation: Inside Barnum, we’re joined by Hannah McPhee, one of the representatives behind Barnum Cares. This conversation comes nearly one year after our first Barnum Cares episode, so we’re checking back in on what’s grown, what’s changed, and what’s next. We talk about how Barnum Cares supports our employees and communities, what kinds of initiatives and events have made the biggest impact over the last year, and how team members across the company can get involved, contribute, or bring new ideas to the table.Hannah also shares how people can connect with the group, where to learn more, and the best ways to support future efforts. If you listened to the first episode, this is the update you’ve been waiting for. If you’re hearing about Barnum Cares for the first time, it’s a great introduction to the heart behind the program.Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast – “Automation Nation: Inside Barnum”In this episode, Cody sits down with Mark Arnold, a H. H. Barnum SMC Product Manager, to talk about the new EX600-BEN1 fieldbus module paired with the EX600-FVC1 CIP Safety I O module, a powerful way to bring safety and standard I/O together on the EX600 platform. We break down how this EtherNet/IP solution lets you put safety I/O right out on the machine next to your valve manifolds, cutting panel wiring, simplifying layouts, and helping you meet modern safety standards like SIL3 and PLe with CIP Safety. You will hear how EX600 can handle up to 16 safety inputs and multiple safety output zones, support devices like light curtains and safety valves, and give maintenance better diagnostics in the same node as your pneumatics.We also talk through where this architecture really shines in real world applications, best practices for commissioning, and how OEMs and end users can start designing in safety on the EX600 system from day one.Learn more about SMC EX600 and CIP Safety solutions: https://www.smcworld.com/newproducts/en-jp/25/ex600-fvc/Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"In this episode, we sit down with Senta from Murrplastik to unpack intelligent cable management for modern automation. We dig into modular energy chains built for continuous motion, tool-free features that speed installation and service, and how better routing reduces noise, vibration, and downtime. We walk through where Murrplastik fits across machine building and robotics, and how to choose bend radius, fill level, and accessories for clean, reliable runs. We also touch on cable entry systems for pre-terminated cables, plus dress packs and custom assemblies that cut integration time on the robot side.You’ll hear practical tips for specifying chains, and a quick look at Murrplastik’s online configurator to go from idea to complete bill of materials.Learn more about Murrplastik Energy Chains: https://www.murrplastik.com/us-en/systems/energy-chains/Try the Murrplastik chain configurator: https://mympchain.com/Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Product Manager PJ Ochoa to dig into Weidmuller’s RockStar Heavy-Duty Connector (HDC) portfolio, one of the brand’s most important connectivity lines for demanding environments outside the control cabinet.PJ breaks down how RockStar HDCs deliver reliable power, signal, and data transmission in tough conditions thanks to die-cast aluminum housings with multilayer surface sealing, engineered for impact/vibration resistance and high ingress protection.You’ll hear how these connectors speed up installation and reduce downtime, with options like SNAP IN and PUSH IN connection technology for fast, tool-free terminations, and why RockStar is a go-to choice across machine building, robotics, and transportation. Learn more about Weidmuller Heavy-Duty Connectors (RockStar):Overview of RockStar HDCs: https://www.weidmuller.com/en/products/connectivity/connectors/heavy_duty_connectors/Explore all Weidmüller offerings: https://www.weidmuller.comLearn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

Weidmuller SNAP IN Technology and the Future of Terminal Wiring In this episode, we sit down with Product Manager Hannah Witopil to explore Weidmuller’s Terminal Block and Cabinet product portfolio. A major focus of our discussion is SNAP IN technology, a true game changer in terminal wiring that’s reshaping how connections are made in the field. Hannah shares how SNAP IN is being integrated across multiple components in Weidmuller’s lineup, the practical advantages it offers for installers and engineers, and why it is becoming a standard for reliable, fast, and tool-free wiring. We also dive into how these innovations are helping customers improve efficiency and reduce downtime. Learn more about Weidmuller’s SNAP IN solutions here: https://www.weidmuller.com/en/products/connectivity/terminal_blocks/snap_in_technology.jsp Use this link to learn more about the full Weidmuller offerings: https://www.weidmuller.com Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast – “Automation Nation: Inside Barnum”In this episode, Cody sits down with the Ryan, Regional Manager from Kuebler to discuss the company’s role in delivering innovative automation solutions worldwide. From encoders to slip rings, Kuebler is known for quality, reliability, and customer focus.We also spotlight their Sendix M36 IO-Link Encoder—a compact, gearless, battery-free multiturn encoder built for Industry 4.0. With Energy Harvesting Technology, it delivers long-term reliability, resists vibration and harsh environments, and offers simplified setup with reduced system costs.Learn more about Kuebler: https://www.kuebler.comLearn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"PULS Power Supplies, Number 1 Manufacturer for DC power.Cody sits down with Michigan PULS manager Ryan, on what makes their power supplies a premium choice and what they bring to the table over the competition. From DC Power backup system to IP67 Field Mounted power, PULS leads the way in this technology and is continually pushing to help save, time, money, and energy.Use this link to learn more on the PULS offerings: https://www.pulspower.com/Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"Weidmuller Industrial Ethernet, Edge Devices, and PRO Partner White Glove Support.We sit down with Industrial Ethernet Product Manager Basma Ahmed to discuss the product she manages and the newest technology with the line. A major focus of her work is moving people to using Managed Ethernet switches be more future proof. Which she recently published an article on this in Automation World. She also has a major focus in new Edge computing devices offered through Weidmuller and how to work seamlessly with the Industrial Ethernet portfolio. In this episode we also highlight a new line of SPE (Single Pair Ethernet) and how that is used and a new breakthrough in data connection.Basma also is a key lead in supporting Weidmuller’s PRO Partners which H. H. Barnum is, and she details out how her “White Glove Support” is used with this partnership.Article in Automation World on migrating to Managed Switch Technology: AW-6620_AW-Weidmueller-Top-Tips-May25_Final.pdfNew SPE Switch: https://www.weidmuller.com/en/company/press/trade_press_news/spe_switch.jspUse this link to learn more on the Weidmuller offerings: https://www.weidmuller.comLearn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H. H. Barnum July 2025 Product Spotlight: Lenze B.L.U. Line Gearmotors.We sit down today with Lenze Development Manager Riley to talk about their B.L.U Line gear motors which are now assembled in the USA for a quicker and more standard offering.Lenze is proud to offer enhanced service for gearmotors and drive packages. This portfolio is designed to help customers fill orders quickly with products assembled locally in the US. More dynamic than conventional designs, Lenze gearmotors and drive packages are built for efficiency and quiet operation, featuring a broad speed range and constant torque. Product benefits include:– Reduced variants– Reduced installation time– Reduced energy consumptionUse this link to learn more and configure a gearmotor system: https://www.lenze.com/en-us/blulineLearn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"June is National Safety Month! This annual observance, led by the National Safety Council, aims to raise awareness and promote safe practices in the workplace, on the road, and in the community to help prevent injuries and save lives.At H.H. Barnum, we offer a wide range of products designed to enhance workplace safety. Our product managers regularly participate in training to ensure they can effectively support customers in selecting the right safety devices as well as to stay well-informed about proper usage before and during implementation. In this episode, we sit down with Derek, one of our knowledgeable product managers, to discuss his role and highlight some of the key safety solutions Barnum offers. https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" In this episode, we sit down with the H.H. Barnum ISO Certification Manager for a discussion on why Barnum does this process and what it brings as a company to employees and our customers. ISO Certification is not mandatory for a company like Barnum, but doing it and going through the process shows a commitment to the professionalism H.H. Barnum is known for.Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"In this episode, we sit down with H.H. Barnum's Marketing Director for an inside look at the events, campaigns, community outreach, and creative projects they lead. Each team member plays a vital role in elevating Barnum’s brand—bringing professionalism, creativity, and structure to everything they touch. This behind-the-scenes conversation shines a spotlight on the team that's usually working behind the curtain, making things happen.

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"H.H. Barnum is always advertising our "Value Added," and today we sit down with the largest value-added department of the company, the Lab. These group leaders are essential in keeping the Lab the well-oiled machine it is. We discuss the day-to-day of the Lab and how it brings so much more than just selling components to H.H. Barnum customers all over the country.Learn more about our Value-Added Services here: https://www.hhbarnum.com/services/value-added-services/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"April 2025 Product Spotlight: SMC PFUW Clamp-on Flow Sensor. H.H. Barnum Product Manager Michael Katlin joins today to discuss a new offering from SMC and how it is used, controlled and applied. Learn how you can benefit from the eight "zeros" of the PFUW: zero piping work, zero leakage, zero clogging, zero pressure loss, zero fluid contact, zero fluid contact parts material concerns, zero foreign matter entry into piping, and rated flow rate range from zero L/min.Learn more about the PFUW Clamp-On Flow Sensor: https://www.smcusa.com/products/pfuw-clamp-on-flow-sensor~176817Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"H.H. Barnum Product Spotlight: New Banner offerings.2025 has brought some incredible new products through Banner Engineering with more coming soon! Today we highlight the IC70, an in-panel IO-Link input or output configurable hub. The SD50 new totally customizable LED light to put any type of text or timer through simple software programming or an IO-Link interface. The K50Z multi-point radar sensor, able to replace multiple sensors with the use of 3D time of flight technology.Learn more here: https://www.bannerengineering.com/us/en/company/new-products.html#all Check out the H.H. Barnum company website here: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" H. H. Barnum Product Spotlight: Contrinex Double Sheet Smart Sensor. The Contrinex Smart Double Sheet Sensors provide detection of double sheet/double blank conditions to prevent costly tool damage. Commonly used in metal forming, these sensors, in conjunction with a programming tool (PocketCodr) or an IO Link Master port, provide a cost-effective, reliable way to detect this unwanted condition. You can also use them to detect a nut on the other side of a piece of sheet metal. Contact your Barnum sales representative to see a demo! Learn more here: https://mcusercontent.com/9cbbc088e7d58b47f471eb0a2/files/367331da-070e-fbc8-b1e7-a0844639f6da/Double_Sheet_Sensor_PDF.pdf Check out the H.H. Barnum company website here: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"H.H. Barnum's 2025 Automation Trailer Tours are officially here! Barnum's 46ft Trade Show on wheels is a state-of-the-art showcase of everything Barnum sells formatted in an interactive and visually stunning display. Applications Specialist and Trailer Driver Scott Tessier joins us today from inside the trailer as we discuss the trailer's features, history, and the effort it takes to tour the trailer from Michigan all the way to Florida.Visit https://www.hhbarnum.com/services/factory-automation-tours/ for more information on our trailer and how to schedule a tour.

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"When you email or call into H.H. Barnum, you normally reach one of the many incredible Customer Service representatives that have built Barnum into what it is today. Today, we sit down with Scott, one of the group leaders in our CS department. Discuss the day to day of him and his peers and how Barnum's customer service is second to none! https://www.hhbarnum.com/about-us/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" Product Spotlight: Lumberg Safety I/O Modules.Belden personnel join us on the podcast today to discuss the latest in the LioN line with their new Safety I/O Modules. Available with CIP and ProfiSafe interfaces and two different configurations of each type, All Inputs, and Hybrid Input/Output/IO-Link. LioN-Safety I/O Modules make it fast and easy to integrate safety sensor and actuator signals into PLC environments. Compact and rugged, the modules are uniquely built to support the real-time transmission of the safety and non-safety-related data needed to ensure functional safety in highly automated operations.Learn more about Lumberg's Safety I/O Modules: https://www.belden.com/products/i-o-systems/safety-i-o-modules#sort=%40catalogitemwebdisplaypriority%20ascending&numberOfResults=25Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"H. H. Barnum Product Spotlight: SMC Chillers. Barnum Product Manager Mike and SMC Product Manager Ryan join us today to discuss the Chiller offering from SMC and how it is used, controlled and applied. The HRS series chillers are SMC's most utilized floor mounted series of temperature control equipment. They are known for reliable service, tight temperature control, compact design, easy operation strong status reporting, and a wide range of capacities.Learn more about SMC's Chillers: https://www.smcusa.com/products/chillers/general-use-compact-chiller~126798Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"H.H. Barnum, a Michigan-based distributor of controls for factory automation, has won their fifth consecutive Distributor of the Year award from Banner Engineering. This award was given to the distributor that demonstrated the highest levels of sales and growth in 2024. We sit down today with Mark our Barnum product manager for Banner to talk about the award and what it means to Barnum as a whole.Learn more about H.H. Barnum at https://www.hhbarnum.com

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" H.H. Barnum prides itself on being experts on the products they represent and that means having individuals dedicated to each unique product line to be the first point of contact with suppliers and the latest and great technology form them. Listen in with Derek Reid as he tells us about what his job as a Barnum Product Manager entails and how it benefits our customers! Learn more about H.H. Barnum at https://www.hhbarnum.com/about-us/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum"110,000 Sq. Ft of space create the well-oiled machine that is H.H. Barnum. Barnum stocks 40+ million dollars in inventory and ships around the country every day. This week, we discuss what makes our warehouse special and so consistently efficient. From the products to the people and how we continue to expand to meet our customer demands, Lindsay James, Barnum Warehouse Manager, shares what the day-to-day operations look like and what our customers can expect! Learn more about H.H. Barnum: https://www.hhbarnum.com/about-us/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" Vendor Managed Inventory: A time-saving and cost-reducing supply chain solution, H.H. Barnum Company’s Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) service provides a simple way for customers to maintain appropriate stock levels while optimizing procurement costs. In addition to simplifying procurement and management time, implementing a vendor managed inventory provides customers with customized billing and usage reports, which ultimately reduce purchase order and invoicing needs. With over 200 customers throughout Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Canada currently leveraging this service, our personnel have experience providing assistance with every aspect of VMI, from replenishment to reconciliation, and proper training for your employees. Check out Barnum's VMI options and contact us here: Vendor Managed Inventory | H.H. Barnum

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" H. H. Barnum has multiple devices that are CODESYS capable. What does that mean and how does someone use CODESYS? The Links below will help you get started with CODESYS on the platforms Barnum uses: https://www.codesys.com/ Weintek with Codesys: Welcome to Weintek.comWeidmuller U-Control: (use standard codesys) Lenze PLC Designer: PLC Designer - Current full version V3.28Learn more about H.H. Barnum here: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" H. H. Barnum December 2024 Product Spotlight: SMC VPX Safe Exhaust Valve. Barnum Product Manager Roger joins today to discuss a new offering from SMC and how it is used, controlled and applied. The SMC VPX series safe exhaust valve provides industry leading exhaust performance in a redundant exhaust valve for use as a safety related part of a control circuit. The VPX series integrates three important functions into one product, including a dual residual pressure release valve, a soft start-up valve and main valve inconsistency detection.Learn more about the SMC VPX here: https://www.smcusa.com/products/vpx-s... Learn more about H.H. Barnum here: https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" Today Cody talks with Bryan, a member of the Barnum Tech Support Group. Barnum specializes in making custom assemblies and components for their customers with the help of unique part numbers. These "HHB" part numbers are one of the biggest value-added services that sets Barnum apart as a distributor. Bryan is a group leader and senior Tech Support Specialist who has been helping create these HHB assemblies for years. Learn more about H.H. Barnum at https://www.hhbarnum.com/

H.H. Barnum Podcast "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" Today Cody talks with Kelli of the Barnum Cares group. Barnum Cares is a company program where employees give back and help out each other and the local community. Listen in to find out more of what they do and how you can be a part of it! Learn more about H.H. Barnum at https://www.hhbarnum.com/

First Episode of the new H.H. Barnum Podcast series "Automation Nation: Inside Barnum" Who is Barnum and why are we doing a podcast? Cody C and Scott T from the Barnum Applications team share with us an introduction to the company and how this podcast will develop overtime to assist customers, grow a following, and interact with people inside the company and out.