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ODVA Introduces Process Device Profiles, Aids With Diagnostic and Process Variables

ODVA Introduces Process Device Profiles, Aids With Diagnostic and Process Variables

ODVA releases process automation device profiles to help standardize process automation field device variables over Ethernet/IP, reducing device integration time and allowing for interchangeability between devices in the field.


News Apr 20, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Pressure Sensor Fundamentals and Types

Pressure Sensor Fundamentals and Types

Pressure sensors are essential tools in industrial applications, required wherever there is a hydraulic or pneumatic system to keep pressure quantities under control.


Endress+Hauser Field Test Ethernet-APL, Readies Portfolio Launch

Endress+Hauser Field Test Ethernet-APL, Readies Portfolio Launch

Endress+Hauser test a new technology that brings high-speed Ethernet, industrial protocols, and power to field devices to support ever-advancing Industry 4.0 demand.


News Apr 17, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Control Wiring for Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)

Control Wiring for Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)

Many VFDs use digital inputs to control operation, rather than PLC-driven network communications. Learn about 2-wire and 3-wire digital input control schemes for ABB, Omron, Rockwell, and others.


Understanding Temperature Sensors and Their Use in Industrial Automation

Understanding Temperature Sensors and Their Use in Industrial Automation

Converting thermal energy into electrical signals, temperature sensors such as RTDs and thermocouples are fundamental in the maintenance and operation of industrial environments and equipment.


What Is Instrument Calibration and Why Is it Needed?

What Is Instrument Calibration and Why Is it Needed?

Calibration can be a time-consuming process requiring expensive traceable tools, but high-accuracy signals result in higher-quality products, better customer satisfaction, and, ultimately, greater returns.


New Possibilities for Power, Data, and Fluid from Fischer Connectors

New Possibilities for Power, Data, and Fluid from Fischer Connectors

Fischer Connectors has released several new series of heavy-duty cable layouts, allowing reliable fastening of single-pair Ethernet (SPE) and USB 3.2, as well as offerings for combined data and fluid connection.


News Apr 04, 2023 by David Peterson
Leveraging IIoT and Energy Measurement Tools for Machine Optimization

Leveraging IIoT and Energy Measurement Tools for Machine Optimization

Analytics from data algorithms can predict machine failures and provide diagnostics—but what should we measure? Then, once the information has been collected, what trends might point to problems?


Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems

Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems

Cybersecurity is all about processes and people. A lot of threats can be mitigated through technology, but only if people understand how cybersecurity affects control systems and related technology.


Multi-network Module Simplifies Networking, Supports CC-Link IE TSN and EtherNet/IP

Multi-network Module Simplifies Networking, Supports CC-Link IE TSN and EtherNet/IP

Mitsubishi Electric releases a new module that combines IoT asynchronous messaging with deterministic cyclic messaging typically found in field I/O.


News Mar 24, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Field-oriented Control (Vector Control) for Brushless DC Motors

Field-oriented Control (Vector Control) for Brushless DC Motors

Field-oriented control (FOC), also called vector control, can control 3-phase alternating current motors and brushless DC motors. Read more to learn its advantages, how it works, and its best applications.


ABB Adds IEC Frame Options to Award-winning Family of Motors

ABB Adds IEC Frame Options to Award-winning Family of Motors

ABB has expanded its line of Baldor-Reliance EC Titanium motors designed for HVAC and pumping systems to include IEC frame types, making the award-winning product lineup even more flexible for customer applications.


News Mar 16, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Introduction to Basic Three-Phase Motor Control Circuits

Introduction to Basic Three-Phase Motor Control Circuits

Large motors require a circuit to turn on and off. This may be as simple as a single on/off drum-type switch or as elaborate as a VFD unit. Learn about some common control circuit designs for typical three-phase motor requirements.


Taking Building Automation Into the Future With “Industry Firsts”

Taking Building Automation Into the Future With “Industry Firsts”

PassiveLogic has released and will showcase their "industry first" building automation ecosystem of hardware and software solutions to make building systems more efficient and autonomous.


News Feb 07, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
“Among the Fastest in the Industry”: Omron Automation’s Slim Relays

“Among the Fastest in the Industry”: Omron Automation’s Slim Relays

Omron Industrial Automation has released two new styles of industrial relays to its existing lineup. The slim-style relays are available as mechanical or solid-state and offer a reduced footprint being only 6.2 mm wide.


News Feb 03, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Safety Devices - The When, How, and Why

Safety Devices - The When, How, and Why

Machine safety design can be a daunting task with all the different safety devices on the market today. Choosing the correct device for your design can be made easier by understanding when to use the proper device.


Comparing Parallel Circuits: Practical vs Theoretical Electrical Systems

Comparing Parallel Circuits: Practical vs Theoretical Electrical Systems

We are taught that parallel circuits maintain equal voltage across all branch resistors, equally sharing the source voltage. But reality is often far from ideal, and individual devices certainly impact the rest of the circuit.


What’s the Difference Between a Safety Contactor and a General Purpose Contactor?

What’s the Difference Between a Safety Contactor and a General Purpose Contactor?

Designing a system with motor motion always includes a consideration of safety. Incorporating safety contactors might be the correct prevention to protect equipment and users but may add additional challenges.


Power Supplies: Understanding the Differences Between Linear and Switching

Power Supplies: Understanding the Differences Between Linear and Switching

Linear and switch-mode power supplies provide direct current to power control components and electrical devices. Learn about the differences between the two power supplies and which one is best for your control system.


Electronic Datasheet (EDS) Files: Why do We Use Them?

Electronic Datasheet (EDS) Files: Why do We Use Them?

Many control product manufacturers offer these downloadable ‘EDS files’ for peripheral equipment, but what exactly is an EDS, and how can they aid in the development of a project?