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A Better Fit: Comparing Electrical Systems vs. Pneumatic Systems

A Better Fit: Comparing Electrical Systems vs. Pneumatic Systems

Knowing what kind of control system to use: that’s a question that must be answered before setting up the factory floor. Why would someone choose pneumatic over electrical controls?


SMC Launches Latest Solutions: Vacuum Filters and a Wireless System with IO-Link

SMC Launches Latest Solutions: Vacuum Filters and a Wireless System with IO-Link

SMC has released a new series of vacuum filters to keep vacuum equipment running optimally. The company has also added IO-Link to its existing compact EXW1 wireless system.


News Jan 18, 2024 by Shawn Dietrich
Mapvison Develops Image-based Weld Seam Inspection Software

Mapvison Develops Image-based Weld Seam Inspection Software

Mapvision has developed an image-based software solution for weld seam inspection to save companies time and money. The solution utilizes cameras existing in Mapvision's dimensional inspection solution.


News Jan 18, 2024 by Damond Goodwin
Teardown: What’s Inside a Solenoid-Controlled Safety Interlock?

Teardown: What’s Inside a Solenoid-Controlled Safety Interlock?

Safety devices have two main purposes, both of them meant for (you guessed it) safety. They protect both machine and operator from harm. But what’s inside, and how do these switches work?


How Do You ‘Megger’ a Motor? Understanding Motor Insulation Resistance

How Do You ‘Megger’ a Motor? Understanding Motor Insulation Resistance

Within motors, two very different types of resistance are evident. The resistance of the windings is measured with a normal multimeter. But what is insulation resistance, and how is it measured?


The Automator’s Edge: New Weekly Video Series Comes to Control!

The Automator’s Edge: New Weekly Video Series Comes to Control!

Learn about new manufacturer innovations, useful product highlights, and technical tips in a brand-new weekly video series from Control Automation, designed by engineers, for engineers.


News Jan 16, 2024 by David Peterson
Electrical Drawings, Schematics, and Wiring Diagrams: How to Read Them

Electrical Drawings, Schematics, and Wiring Diagrams: How to Read Them

In order to trace control system problems to the core, the ability to read and interpret various resources, from facility-level diagrams to machine-level wiring layouts, is critical.


Datalogic Introduces PowerScan 9600 DPX Scanners for Improved Traceability

Datalogic Introduces PowerScan 9600 DPX Scanners for Improved Traceability

Datalogic has released a new series of industrial handheld scanners designed to improve supply chain traceability via its ability to read difficult or damaged barcodes marked directly on a part’s surface.


News Jan 15, 2024 by Shawn Dietrich
Balluff Launches BMP Magnetic Field Position Measuring System

Balluff Launches BMP Magnetic Field Position Measuring System

The latest magnetic field position measuring system from Balluff features smart factory capabilities with a high degree of customization to fit individual manufacturing needs.


News Jan 14, 2024 by Damond Goodwin
Autonics Unveils ADIO Series Remote I/O Boxes for Seamless Connectivity

Autonics Unveils ADIO Series Remote I/O Boxes for Seamless Connectivity

Autonics has announced the latest addition to its product lineup, the ADIO series remote I/O boxes. The ADIO series is designed for enhanced industrial communication with seamless connectivity.


News Jan 13, 2024 by Bob Odhiambo
Mitsubishi Electric and TXOne Networks Team Up To Expand OT Security

Mitsubishi Electric and TXOne Networks Team Up To Expand OT Security

Mitsubishi Electric and TXOne Networks are addressing growing cyber threats in industrial operations by combining their expertise to strengthen their respective operational technology security businesses.


News Jan 12, 2024 by Stephanie Leonida
Understanding Single-stage vs. Multi-stage Pneumatic Devices

Understanding Single-stage vs. Multi-stage Pneumatic Devices

This article looks at vacuum ejectors and vacuum pumps, specifically outlining the difference between single and multi-stage versions of each type, and common applications.


Enhance Workplace Efficiency with Patlite’s Bluetooth Stack Lights

Enhance Workplace Efficiency with Patlite’s Bluetooth Stack Lights

Patlite is improving workplace communication and safety with a stack light using Bluetooth control. This system eliminates complex wiring by transmitting signals directly to compatible output devices.


News Jan 11, 2024 by Austin Futrell
How to Convert Numbers: Binary, Decimal, and Hex Systems

How to Convert Numbers: Binary, Decimal, and Hex Systems

Converting different numbering systems is quite common in PLCs and structured text codes. Why? Because people read decimals. Computers read binary. Processors read sets of bits. Not so simple.


SMC Releases Dual-speed and Water-resistant Controllers for Flow Control

SMC Releases Dual-speed and Water-resistant Controllers for Flow Control

SMC has released two new flow control valves for controlling the speed of pneumatic devices, one fit for wash-down environments and one that offers metering-in and metering-out in one valve.


News Jan 10, 2024 by Shawn Dietrich
igus Expands ReBel Cobot Capabilities With Newly Developed Bionic Hand

igus Expands ReBel Cobot Capabilities With Newly Developed Bionic Hand

The recently launched ReBel finger gripper is the latest in cost-effective automation from igus. The easy-to-integrate bionic hand expands ReBel cobots' capabilities by enabling humanoid tasks at a low cost.


News Jan 05, 2024 by Austin Futrell
HMS Networks To Acquire Red Lion, Expanding North American Presence

HMS Networks To Acquire Red Lion, Expanding North American Presence

HMS Networks is set to expand its influence in the North American market through its definitive agreement to acquire Red Lion Controls. The $345 million deal is expected to close in early 2024.


News Jan 04, 2024 by Stephanie Leonida
Rockwell Offers Delta Motion for Replacement of ControlLogix Modules

Rockwell Offers Delta Motion for Replacement of ControlLogix Modules

Delta Motion RMC controllers offer a replacement to solve the upcoming discontinuation of Rockwell Automation’s ControlLogix analog modules for hydraulic and servo motion control systems.


News Jan 03, 2024 by Shawn Dietrich
Star-Delta Wiring for Reduced Voltage Starting of 3-Phase Motors

Star-Delta Wiring for Reduced Voltage Starting of 3-Phase Motors

Digital controls like VFDs and soft starts have advantages by elongating start time, but simple strategies for starting motors with a reduced current draw, like star-delta (or wye-delta) are common.


Doosan Group To Reveal Green, Autonomous Technology at CES 2024

Doosan Group To Reveal Green, Autonomous Technology at CES 2024

Doosan Group will be unveiling its latest innovations at CES 2024. The company will showcase its green-centric, future-thinking technology from Doosan Robotics, Bobcat, Enerbility, and HyAxiom.


News Jan 02, 2024 by Stephanie Leonida