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Introduction to Distributed Control Systems (DCS)

Introduction to Distributed Control Systems (DCS)

Distributed control systems (DCS) evolved out of control systems for facilities, but their scope can be difficult to fully understand. This article explores the role of a DCS and how it fits in with PLCs and PACs.


The Difference Between Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Soft Starters

The Difference Between Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Soft Starters

The following will examine how to reduce the wear on motors during startup and compare soft starters and variable frequency drives (VFDs). 


Using Sensors with Open Collector Outputs

Using Sensors with Open Collector Outputs

This article discusses how to use sensors with open collector outputs and learning some of the module connections involved.


The Purpose of NPN Sensors in Control Systems

The Purpose of NPN Sensors in Control Systems

A typical control system uses PNP sensors and tends to be easier to visualize. For opposite polarity systems, the NPN sensor is the only compatible sensor type. Learn more about NPN sensors, including characteristics and uses.


Siemens Delivers Digital Contact Tracing Application for Safer Workplaces

Siemens Delivers Digital Contact Tracing Application for Safer Workplaces

Siemens announced the release of Enlightened Safe, an application that facilitates tracking employees who may have been in contact with an infected individual at their workplace.


News Sep 18, 2020 by Sara McCaslin
Understanding Different IP Enclosure Ratings

Understanding Different IP Enclosure Ratings

This article will provide an overview of the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, IEC standard 60529, sometimes referred to as International Protection code.


Orifice Plate Sizing for Flow Measurements

Orifice Plate Sizing for Flow Measurements

Learn about orifice plates and specifically how to size orifice plates for flow measurements and the different flow rates associated with them.


How to Reduce Electrical Noise on Sensors and Control Systems

How to Reduce Electrical Noise on Sensors and Control Systems

Electrical noise is a common problem inside industrial facilities. The following will explain a few simple strategies for reducing this noise.


Comparison of Modbus Over TCP/IP and Profinet

Comparison of Modbus Over TCP/IP and Profinet

Two of the most common protocols are Modbus and Profinet. They are similar in many ways, but there are some crucial differences.


Emerson Updates Plantweb Software to Include Social Density Management and Contact Tracing

Emerson Updates Plantweb Software to Include Social Density Management and Contact Tracing

Emerson's Plantweb Location Awareness update makes it possible for plant managers to support health and operational continuity through social density management and contact tracing tools.


News Aug 25, 2020 by Sara McCaslin
Common NEMA Enclosure Ratings 

Common NEMA Enclosure Ratings 

This article discusses several different types of NEMA enclosure ratings and which one may be the right one for your specific applications.


Overview of Motor Contactors and AC Drives

Overview of Motor Contactors and AC Drives

This article discusses motor contractors and how they play an essential role in most robotic cells.


Allied Electronics and Schneider Electric Partner to Provide Resources for Building Industrial Control Panels

Allied Electronics and Schneider Electric Partner to Provide Resources for Building Industrial Control Panels

Allied Electronics and Schneider Electric come together to provide customers with collective resources needed to design and build industrial control panels.


News Aug 17, 2020 by Stephanie Leonida
Integral Windup Method in PID Control

Integral Windup Method in PID Control

Integral or Reset Windup is a problem that can occur from these systems, and there are a few possible approaches to minimize the effects.


An Overview of Integral Gain

An Overview of Integral Gain

This article discusses the meaning of integral gain and how to calculate integral gain to achieve better control results.


Soft vs. Direct On-line Motor Starting

Soft vs. Direct On-line Motor Starting

Get to know the hows and whys of choosing the proper start-up method of motors in different applications.


Utilizing Exoskeleton Robots for Industrial Applications

Utilizing Exoskeleton Robots for Industrial Applications

Learn all about exoskeletons, a way to fuse robotics and humans in ways that can help the manufacturing process while protecting the human body from excessive strain.


An Introduction to Gray Code for Encoders

An Introduction to Gray Code for Encoders

This article introduces Gray code, a specialized binary arrangement necessary for absolute encoders to communicate with controllers.


Advanced Control Techniques for Collaborative Manipulators

Advanced Control Techniques for Collaborative Manipulators

Learn all about the collaborative robots (cobots) that work alongside humans and the many advanced strategies put in place so they can function efficiently and safely in industrial settings.


SCADA System Usage in the Daily Life of an Engineer

SCADA System Usage in the Daily Life of an Engineer

Learn how one engineer's real-world experience showed him the importance and power of SCADA systems for control automation.