My machine-mount I/O feature in the April issue of Control Design will explore the recent growth of I/O devices that have moved from being installed mostly in cabinets away from their applications to I/O now located on or closer to production lines thanks to overmolded or otherwise IP-67 protected modules and cables. I'm trying to examine recent trends in this area, seek advice from machine builders and suppliers on the best ways to use these technologies, highlight instructive examples from end users, and give some direction on how machine-mount I/O is likely to evolve in the future. If you have some sage-like commentary and/or specific examples, please let me know ASAP. I can be reached at (630) 467-1301, x465, or via e-mail at [email protected]