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Developing Standardized Practices for PLC Programming

Developing Standardized Practices for PLC Programming

Any kind of computer programming can be challenging to determine what aspects are truly unique versus what aspects should be standardized across projects and platforms to streamline future development.


Covering all the Latest Control Technology: Automate 2023

Covering all the Latest Control Technology: Automate 2023

The second day of Automate 2023 in Detroit was a huge success! The Control Automation engineering and sales team met with a number of companies to discuss and explore the exciting, innovative demonstrations.


News May 25, 2023 by David Peterson
Introduction to System Dynamic Responses

Introduction to System Dynamic Responses

System dynamics is primarily concerned with understanding complex systems’ behaviors over time. Mathematical and computer models can help identify responses before turning to costly real-world experiments.


Intrinsic Partners With Comau for Testing and Improving Flowstate Robotics Software Platform

Intrinsic Partners With Comau for Testing and Improving Flowstate Robotics Software Platform

Alphabet’s Intrinsic has partnered with Comau for testing and continued development of its Flowstate robotics programming and software package.


News May 24, 2023 by Seth Price
Automate 2023: First Glimpse From the Show

Automate 2023: First Glimpse From the Show

It’s the first two days of Automate 2023, and the Control Automation team hit the streets to learn about the latest and greatest technology rocking the world of robotics and industrial automation!


News May 24, 2023 by David Peterson
Pneumatic Cylinders Used for Industrial Automation

Pneumatic Cylinders Used for Industrial Automation

Engineers face a common challenge of moving objects from one point to another, especially in a production line. This article will introduce the pneumatic cylinder as used in industrial automation.


Three-Phase Transformers: Applications and Connection Configuration

Three-Phase Transformers: Applications and Connection Configuration

Transformer types can vary from small instruments to large power distribution systems. 3-phase systems require transformers that employ the same wye and delta arrangements common to industrial motors.


Automate 2023 Is Kicking Off! Showcasing the “World’s First Cobot Spot Welder” and Other Automation Feats

Automate 2023 Is Kicking Off! Showcasing the “World’s First Cobot Spot Welder” and Other Automation Feats

Automate 2023 has begun! This year’s trade show features some exciting new technologies, including automation solutions from Universal Robots, Bosch Rexroth, and DENSO Robotics.


News May 22, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Mitsubishi Invests in Clearpath Robotics to Realize Smart Factories of the Future

Mitsubishi Invests in Clearpath Robotics to Realize Smart Factories of the Future

Mitsubishi Electric has announced its investment in Clearpath Robotics, owner of OTTO Motors, to bolster AMR adoption for full factory automation and realize smart factories of the future.


News May 21, 2023 by Stephanie Leonida
Emerson Creates Power Supply Solution Specifically Designed For IIoT

Emerson Creates Power Supply Solution Specifically Designed For IIoT

Emerson's SolaHD has created a communication module that brings IIoT capabilities to its SDN-D power supplies to help monitor systems for abnormalities to reduce costly downtime.


News May 19, 2023 by Damond Goodwin
Back to the Basics: Understanding Industrial Buttons and Switches

Back to the Basics: Understanding Industrial Buttons and Switches

This article features an in-depth discussion of the various options for buttons and switches, including function, styles, shapes, and illumination options for all kinds of control panel inputs.


Fluke Releases Stand-alone Thermal Imager For Extreme Environments

Fluke Releases Stand-alone Thermal Imager For Extreme Environments

Fluke has introduced the space-saving, stand-alone ThermoView TV30 Thermal Imager for temperature control and monitoring in harsh industrial settings, doing away with connecting to vulnerable PCs.


News May 18, 2023 by Stephanie Leonida
Phoenix Contact Unveils Latest in Communication and Automation

Phoenix Contact Unveils Latest in Communication and Automation

Phoenix Contact has unveiled its latest products and solutions in industrial communication, connection, and automation for greater efficiency and ease of use among users.


News May 18, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Joystick Controls: How Do You Use Them For Automated Systems?

Joystick Controls: How Do You Use Them For Automated Systems?

We usually think of joysticks in terms of video game controllers, but they exist in all kinds of industrial systems: heavy equipment, overhead cranes, and even some robotic controls. But how do they work?


Challenges to Sustainability: What Can Manufacturers Do to Go Green?

Challenges to Sustainability: What Can Manufacturers Do to Go Green?

Setting sustainability goals is an important step, but there are a number of real challenges that lie in implementing initiatives that can deliver these targets and lead to long-term program success.


Automate 2023 Is Almost Here, With 750+ Exhibitors Powering Possibilities

Automate 2023 Is Almost Here, With 750+ Exhibitors Powering Possibilities

Automate 2023, North America’s largest automation trade show, is rapidly approaching! Control.com will be in attendance, ready to learn about the latest products and solutions and to interview industry experts.


News May 17, 2023 by Seth Price
Building a Temperature Controller Simulator Using OpenPLC and an Arduino

Building a Temperature Controller Simulator Using OpenPLC and an Arduino

Variable control allows external conditions, like temperature, to be monitored so the controller can activate devices to heat or cool the system as needed. Simulate a temp controller with low-cost components!


Gas, Smoke, and Fire Sensors for Industrial and Commercial Applications

Gas, Smoke, and Fire Sensors for Industrial and Commercial Applications

We see smoke detectors on a daily basis in every house and building we visit, but the same sensor elements, and others, can be used to detect the presence of harmful gasses and heat in all industries.


Fluke To Help Grow Solar Workforce, Becomes NABCEP Training Provider

Fluke To Help Grow Solar Workforce, Becomes NABCEP Training Provider

Bottlenecks created by skilled labor shortages have created concern for companies looking for sustainable growth. Fluke hopes to limit future bottlenecks in the solar industry by becoming a NABCEP Registered Training Provider.


News May 16, 2023 by Damond Goodwin
Understanding Wire Color Codes for Industrial Electrical Applications

Understanding Wire Color Codes for Industrial Electrical Applications

Designing, installing, and maintaining control systems involves a lot of wires. Each wire has a purpose, often indicated by the color of the insulation. But what are the common colors, and what do they mean?