Latest Communication & Security Articles

Learn about the history, framework, and current uses of the Open Platform Communications United Architecture (OPC UA)…

Learn about the history, framework, and current uses of the Open Platform Communications United Architecture (OPC UA) communication protocol in industrial automation.

Moxa's latest in its AWK series of industrial wireless solutions are designed to help with AGV and AMR network…

Moxa's latest in its AWK series of industrial wireless solutions are designed to help with AGV and AMR network reliability, meeting the growing demand for mobile automation.

ASCII is a familiar acronym, found in applications like Modbus communications and string data types—but what is it, and…

ASCII is a familiar acronym, found in applications like Modbus communications and string data types—but what is it, and what does ASCII mean for automation engineers?

Cybersecurity is all about processes and people. A lot of threats can be mitigated through technology, but only if people…

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.

Mitsubishi Electric releases a new module that combines IoT asynchronous messaging with deterministic cyclic messaging…

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

OMRON Automation now offers a PLC function block-based cobot palletizing solution that aims to help machine operators…

OMRON Automation now offers a PLC function block-based cobot palletizing solution that aims to help machine operators speed up deployment and boost productivity in manufacturing environments.

AVEVA has begun a portfolio-wide transition to a subscription model, expecting 80% of clients to be switched over by…

AVEVA has begun a portfolio-wide transition to a subscription model, expecting 80% of clients to be switched over by 2025. With the transition, clients can expect to see quicker ROI, reduced costs, and the latest in software.

Industrial computing leader OnLogic sets the stage for more reliable data processing at the edge with the new Helix 401…

Industrial computing leader OnLogic sets the stage for more reliable data processing at the edge with the new Helix 401 IPC with expanded I/O and faster CPU/GPU capabilities, all in a rugged, fanless enclosure.

SPE opens up the possibility for faster and simpler Ethernet in the industrial environment. Microchip Technology aims to…

SPE opens up the possibility for faster and simpler Ethernet in the industrial environment. Microchip Technology aims to get system designers thinking about how new designs can benefit by implementing SPE.

Addressing cybersecurity threats introduced by IIoT technology and devices can quickly seem overwhelming. However, an…

Addressing cybersecurity threats introduced by IIoT technology and devices can quickly seem overwhelming. However, an understanding of the risks can lead to some straightforward countermeasures.

Banner Engineering's new R90C Modbus to Analog Hub allows users to easily add analog output to a system that uses Modbus…

Banner Engineering's new R90C Modbus to Analog Hub allows users to easily add analog output to a system that uses Modbus or RS485 without purchasing expensive output cards or replacing outdated equipment.

EtherCAT is an often preferred competitor in the arena of industrial networking protocols. Learn the reason why many…

EtherCAT is an often preferred competitor in the arena of industrial networking protocols. Learn the reason why many technologies embrace this protocol and what sets it apart from other fieldbus varieties.

Computers understand values as long strings of binary bits, but we humans convert them to other systems for convenience.…

Computers understand values as long strings of binary bits, but we humans convert them to other systems for convenience. Decimal makes sense, but what about hexadecimal and the lesser-known octal systems?

PLCs need no trade show to announce their presence. But many companies have developed improvements to the traditional…

PLCs need no trade show to announce their presence. But many companies have developed improvements to the traditional platform that can present new opportunities for the future of operational technology.

GE Digital continues improving its Proficy Smart Factory portfolio by enhancing its cloud-based manufacturing execution…

GE Digital continues improving its Proficy Smart Factory portfolio by enhancing its cloud-based manufacturing execution system (MES) for overall equipment effectiveness and production and quality management.

Using an electronic data sheet or add-on profile is an easier method than having to manually configure and map a generic…

Using an electronic data sheet or add-on profile is an easier method than having to manually configure and map a generic Ethernet module. Learn about the differences between an EDS and AOP and how and when each is used.

The S7-1200 is one of Siemens’ most popular PLC options for relatively small automation projects. Learn how to use the…

The S7-1200 is one of Siemens’ most popular PLC options for relatively small automation projects. Learn how to use the Totally Integrated Automation Portal to design simple ladder logic programs.

Industrial Ethernet is getting a facelift, but will the industry adopt this new change? Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) offers…

Industrial Ethernet is getting a facelift, but will the industry adopt this new change? Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) offers gigabit speeds with a reduced footprint. When is it used, and where?

Modbus is one of the oldest industrial communication protocols still in use today. Continue reading to find out how the…

Modbus is one of the oldest industrial communication protocols still in use today. Continue reading to find out how the protocol works and how to use it for monitoring and control.