Introducing Banner's SD50: A Smarter, More Versatile Display for Industrial Applications
In the world of industrial automation, real-time data visibility is critical. Whether you’re monitoring tank levels, managing conveyor speed, or streamlining operator communication, having the right display makes all the difference. That’s where Banner Engineering’s new SD50 display steps in — a compact, flexible, and multi-protocol solution built for modern factory needs.
We sat down with Tom K., a Field Service Engineer from GCG to get a quick overview of this exciting product. Check out the TechTalk below, where Tom discusses the unique features of the product.
What Is the SD50?
The SD50 is Banner’s latest display innovation, designed to interface with various communication protocols and bring real-time visibility to your operations. The SD50 supports:
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Digital Input
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IO-Link
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Modbus
This makes it incredibly versatile and easy to integrate across a wide range of industrial environments and sensor systems.
Designed for Data Visibility
One of the standout features of the SD50 is its built-in display capabilities. Unlike traditional tower lights or simple indicator panels, the SD50 can deliver actionable information clearly and immediately — even to operators or technicians just passing by.
The use of multi-color indicators on either side of the device, making it ideal for visual alerts in noisy or fast-moving environments.
Common Use Cases in the Field
The SD50 is already proving useful in several real-world applications:
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Tank level monitoring
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Scrap part tracking
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Conveyor speed indication
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Call-for-parts systems at workstations
Its small footprint, combined with bright, multi-directional indicators, makes it particularly effective in environments where quick status recognition is key.
HMI Replacement or Complement?
A common question among automation engineers is whether devices like the SD50 are meant to replace HMIs. Our take? The SD50 is best used in tandem with traditional HMIs. While HMIs provide deep system control and diagnostics, the SD50 offers at-a-glance information that enhances operator awareness without the need for interaction.
Environmental Considerations
While the SD50 is rugged and well-suited for most factory environments, it's important to note that it's IP65-rated. That means it’s dust-tight and protected against water jets, but not recommended for outdoor use or areas with direct sunlight exposure, where visibility may be compromised.
Final Thoughts
Banner’s SD50 is more than just a display — it's a flexible, smart, and visual communication tool that bridges the gap between machine data and human operators. Whether you’re looking to enhance your existing automation setup or seeking new ways to increase visibility on the floor, the SD50 opens up a world of possibilities.