COMPRESSED AIR AUTOMATION
SAM Controllers makes two digital air compressor controllers. The Model R replaces the mechanical pressure switch and the timer drain on one reciprocating compressor. The R100 controls one pump, and the R200 controls two. The Model C runs several compressors as one cluster. It is in early access, with a waitlist.
A mechanical pressure switch drifts up to 20% per year, so the compressor short-cycles or over-runs. A timer drain vents on a schedule. It bleeds pressure from a dry tank. It leaves water in a wet one, and that water reaches tools and paint lines.
Both models replace the switch with a digital pressure sensor that does not drift. Both control the tank drain automatically instead of on a fixed timer. A Pecan Street study funded by the Department of Energy tested the Model R. It measured significant energy savings and a 100% reduction in compressed air moisture.
To control multiple air compressors, the Model C starts the unit with the lowest runtime first. It starts another compressor when pressure keeps falling. One CompoNET cluster links up to 16 controllers. Clusters that include Model R controllers link over Compressor-City, up to 8 units.
Two compressors need lead-lag control. The lead-lag control guide shows how two controllers share runtime over a single-wire link.
Learn more at https://compressorcontroller.com/ →
CONTROLLERS
Digital control for one compressor, a duplex, or a room of compressors. The Model R runs one or two pumps. The Model C runs several compressors as one cluster.
Bolt-on digital control unit for single-pump air compressors of any size. Automatic moisture drain, precision pressure sensing, and runtime tracking in one package that installs in hours.
Duplex staging controller that alternates lead and lag pumps automatically. Balances runtime across both compressors, extends pump life, and keeps the air network steady even under variable demand.
Runs two or more compressors as one cluster. It spreads wear, adds capacity at peak demand, flags faults, and keeps the air on during service. C1 controls one compressor. C2 controls a duplex compressor.
For over 10 years, the Compressor Controller has been the trusted upgrade in automotive paint and body shops, machine and CNC shops, cabinet and woodworking shops, fleet and tire shops, dental air rooms, light manufacturing, federal facilities, and dairy and farm operations. Any continuous-duty reciprocating compressor where moisture, drift, or downtime cost money.
COMPARE
Choose the Model R for one compressor or a duplex. Choose the Model C when several compressors must run as one cluster.
| Feature | Model R | Model CEarly access |
|---|---|---|
| Built for | One compressor or a duplex compressor | Two or more compressors that run as one cluster |
| Models | R100 controls one pump. R200 controls a duplex, alternates the pumps, and runs both when demand needs double the flow. | C1 controls one compressor. C2 controls a duplex with two heads on one tank. |
| Compressors | Reciprocating piston, over 2 HP, any brand | Industrial and commercial compressed-air systems |
| Linking controllers | Compressor-City single-wire link. Controllers share runtime, balance wear, and stand in for each other. | CompoNET CAN bus, standard. Up to 16 controllers per cluster. Links to Model R units over Compressor-City, up to 8 units. |
| Status to the building | Configurable outputs switch drain valves, cooling fans, and alarm devices | Optional signalling package: 4 status outputs (Operational, Warning, Alarm, Maintenance) and 4 inputs for HALT and option signals |
| Relay outputs | Up to 10 A at 250 VAC. They switch a contactor, not the motor. | Dry contacts, up to 5 A |
| VFD | VFD Kit: pre-wired build with an integrated 10 HP drive | VFD control options: active speed control of a drive on each motor |
| Setup | DIP switches and set points at the unit | Menu with the remote. The unit starts from factory settings. |
| Display | 20×4 LCD, LED backlit | 20×4 OLED, brightness set by an ambient light sensor |
| Availability | Ready to ship | Waitlist. SAM Controllers contacts waitlist members first. |
| View the Model R → | Join the Model C waitlist→ |
Two tools that estimate what this controller actually pays you back: confirm utility-rebate eligibility for your service territory, and run an ROI calculation against your compressor's HP, run hours, and electricity rate.
