When you're planning a PLC-based control system, the CPU choice shapes your memory budget, your I/O count, and how you communicate with the rest of the plant. Here, two very different options compete for your panel space: the Schneider Modicon M221, sold brand new with Ethernet and 24 onboard I/O, and the AutomationDirect DirectLOGIC D2-260, a high-performance CPU sold used at a lower price with more memory and PID support.
Quick Verdict
If you want a clean, new controller with Ethernet and a modest I/O count, the Schneider TM221CE24R Modicon M221 is the straightforward pick. If you need more memory and built-in loop control and are comfortable buying used industrial gear, the AutomationDirect D2-260 offers more stored capacity for roughly $40 less.
At a Glance
| Product | Price | Condition | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schneider Modicon M221 | $170.39 | New | 24 I/O, Ethernet |
| AutomationDirect D2-260 | $130.00 | Used | 30.4K memory, 16 PID loops |
The price spread between the two listings is about 24%, with the AutomationDirect CPU priced below the Schneider unit.
Where Each Product Wins
- Schneider Modicon M221 wins for buyers who want a brand-new unit, explicit Ethernet connectivity, and a ready-to-use 24-point I/O count without hunting for additional hardware.
- AutomationDirect D2-260 wins for buyers who prioritize memory capacity and advanced processing features, including 16 internal PID loops and over 280 instructions, while being willing to accept a used condition.
Product Notes
Schneider TM221CE24R Modicon M221 Logic Controller
This is the safer choice if you're starting a new project from scratch. It's listed as brand new and comes from Schneider Electric's Modicon M221 platform. The 24 I/O count is clearly stated, and the built-in Ethernet port means you can connect it to your network without extra modules. At $170.39, it's the higher-priced unit, but you're paying for new equipment and the simplicity of having Ethernet on board. The main limitation is that the listing doesn't advertise the same depth of memory or loop-control features as the used D2-260, so if your application needs large recipe storage or many PID loops, you might outgrow it quickly.
Automation Direct D2-260 Programmable Logic Controller CPU
This CPU is part of the DirectLOGIC 205 (DL205) series and is listed as used. It makes up for that with a big memory package: 30.4K words of total internal memory, including 15.8K words of ladder memory and 14.6K words of V-memory. It also supports up to 16 independent PID loops and over 280 instructions, making it attractive for process-oriented applications that require math and table functions. At $130.00, it's the lower-priced listing and gives you more raw processing headroom per dollar. The catch is the used condition, and there's no mention of Ethernet connectivity, so if you need a modern network interface, you'll need to plan for a separate communication module or pick the Schneider instead.
Final Choice by Use Case
- Choose the Schneider Modicon M221 if you want a new, network-ready controller with a straightforward 24-I/O footprint and no concern about prior service life.
- Choose the AutomationDirect D2-260 if you need more memory and PID capacity, are comfortable with used equipment, and your control network can tolerate a non-Ethernet CPU or you already have a way to interface with it.
