Product Core Brief

• Model: EA9-T15CL
• Brand: Automation Direct
• Series: C-more EA9
• Core Function: 15-inch color TFT LCD operator interface for visualizing machine states and managing PLC data exchange.
• Product Type: Industrial HMI Touchscreen Panel
• Key Specs: 1024 x 768 XGA | Analog Resistive Touch | LED Backlight
• Condition: New Surplus / OEM Original

Key Technical Specifications

• Display Size: 15-inch Color TFT LCD
• Resolution: 1024 x 768 Pixels (XGA)
• Touch Technology: Analog Resistive
• Backlight: LED
• Serial Ports: (3) Serial Communication Ports
• Network Port: (1) Ethernet Port
• USB Interfaces: (2) USB Ports
• Storage: (2) Storage Card Slots
• Video Output: (1) HDMI Video Output
• Audio: (1) Audio Line Output

Product Introduction

Serving as the primary visual interface for legacy and modern PLC systems, this Automation Di provides crisp XGA visualization for complex machine processes. It handles serial and Ethernet data polling while offering HDMI mirroring for remote monitoring stations.

Retrofitting a 15-inch panel often requires maximizing real estate inside crowded electrical enclosures. This unit uses LED backlighting to reduce heat generation compared to older CCFL displays, extending the operational lifespan of the internal power supply and preventing thermal throttling during continuous 24/7 operation.

QA & Testing SOP

Touchscreen panels fail differently than CPUs. We verify both the digital logic and the analog touch layer.

1. Anti-Counterfeit & Visual Audit: We inspect the bezel for stress cracks, verify the Automation Direct nameplate integrity, and check the rear I/O ports for bent pins or solder rework.
2. Cold-Boot POST Test: We power cycle the unit multiple times to verify the bootloader initializes correctly and the LED backlight reaches full brightness without flickering.
3. Touch Matrix Calibration Check: Using a stylus, we verify the analog resistive grid registers accurate coordinates at the extreme corners, ensuring no dead zones exist in the touch layer.
4. I/O Port Continuity: We test all three serial ports, the Ethernet link light, and both USB ports using known-good peripherals to guarantee field connectivity.
5. ESD Safe Packaging: Large-format HMIs are highly susceptible to static damage on the display ribbon cables. We pack them in anti-static shielding with rigid corner protectors.

Installation Pitfalls & Guide

❗ Resistive vs. Capacitive Touch: This unit uses analog resistive technology. It requires physical pressure to register. If you are replacing a capacitive glass panel, operators will complain it feels “stiff.” Do not attempt to modify the touch sensitivity parameters to fix this; it is a hardware limitation.

❗ Grounding the Bezel: The metal bezel of a 15-inch HMI acts as an antenna for EMI from nearby VFDs. If you experience phantom touches or display ghosting, ensure the dedicated grounding lug on the rear of the panel is bonded directly to the panel ground bus.

❗ HDMI Output Bandwidth: The HDMI port mirrors the internal XGA resolution. Do not expect native 4K output. Driving a modern 4K monitor from this port will result in scaling artifacts or black borders. Use it strictly for matching-resolution remote displays.

Replacement SOP:

1. Pre-Install: Back up the current C-more project file via USB or Ethernet before pulling the old unit.
2. Removal: Disconnect power first, then serial/Ethernet cables; carefully release the panel from the DIN rail or cutout.
3. Install: Slide the into the cutout, engage the mounting brackets evenly to avoid cracking the LCD, and reconnect I/O.
4. Power-On Test: Apply 24VDC, load the project file, and perform a full-screen touch calibration test.

Technical FAQ

Can I use a standard USB mouse with this panel?
Yes. features two USB ports that support standard HID devices. You can connect a USB mouse for navigation, which is highly recommended for 15-inch XGA screens where reaching the top corners with a finger or stylus can be tedious.

Is the backlight user-replaceable?
No. The LED backlight array is integrated into the LCD assembly. While LEDs last significantly longer than the CCFL tubes used in older EA7 or EA6 series, replacing the backlight requires a full LCD module swap.

Does this support VNC for remote access?
Yes, the C-more EA9 series includes built-in VNC server capabilities over the Ethernet port. However, running VNC alongside heavy serial polling can introduce latency. If you are using this for remote monitoring, dedicate the Ethernet port to VNC and use the serial ports for PLC communication.

What programming software do I need?
You will need C-more EA Series HMI Programming Software (version 9 or later recommended). The software is free to download, but you will need a valid license to compile and download projects to. We can provide the last known stable version on a USB drive if requested.

Why is this considered new surplus?
This unit was pulled from sealed OEM overstock before ever being installed. We test it to verify functionality, but we aren’t replacing the backlight or reflowing the motherboard. You’re getting unused silicon with original factory seals at a fraction of the obsolete OEM price.