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Introducing the edgeConnector Allen-Bradley PLC for Data Integration

Introducing the edgeConnector Allen-Bradley PLC for Data Integration

Softing Industrial has expanded its edgeConnector product family of docker containers to support the widely used Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix controllers.


News May 15, 2024 by Austin Futrell
Seamless PLC-to-Robot Integration With Universal Robots and Siemens

Seamless PLC-to-Robot Integration With Universal Robots and Siemens

Universal Robots is the first cobot manufacturer to adopt the Siemens SRCI system to provide seamless cobot-to-PLC integration.


News May 06, 2024 by Damond Goodwin
Decentralized Variable Frequency Drives From NORD To Optimize Conveyance

Decentralized Variable Frequency Drives From NORD To Optimize Conveyance

NORD DRIVESYSTEMS has expanded the existing line of variable frequency drives (VFDs) to include a decentralized option for conveyor systems. The VFD is available for use with asynchronous and synchronous motors.


News May 04, 2024 by Shawn Dietrich
FANUC Robot Ethernet Tutorial: Setting Up PLC I/O Communication

FANUC Robot Ethernet Tutorial: Setting Up PLC I/O Communication

Learn how to set up Ethernet/IP communications, including steps for both the FANUC controller and the Studio 5000 environment for a Rockwell PLC.


Introducing Valmet DNAe: A Next-generation Distributed Control System

Introducing Valmet DNAe: A Next-generation Distributed Control System

Valmet’s new advanced distributed control system, Valmet DNAe, provides customers with integrated advanced process controls, enhanced cybersecurity, and data-driven process analysis and optimization.


News Apr 27, 2024 by Stephanie Leonida
Two Common Methods Used for Mapping Robot I/O Communication

Two Common Methods Used for Mapping Robot I/O Communication

There are multiple methods for mapping inputs and outputs to an industrial robot. In this article, we cover two of the most popular methods: letting the robot or the PLC control the I/O signals.


Hannover Messe 24: Phoenix Contact and Festo Align Using PLCnext Tech

Hannover Messe 24: Phoenix Contact and Festo Align Using PLCnext Tech

Festo adopts the open architecture of the PLCnext platform from Phoenix Contact to deliver cutting-edge automation solutions to customers who need connectivity in electric and pneumatic systems.


News Apr 25, 2024 by David Peterson
Control Looks Ahead to the Future of Industrial Tech at Automate 2024

Control Looks Ahead to the Future of Industrial Tech at Automate 2024

Join us as we check out the latest in today's industrial control system technology when we visit Chicago in early May, enjoying the sights and sounds of Automate 2024.


News Apr 23, 2024 by David Peterson
Setting IP Address and Networking Parameters on a PowerFlex VFD

Setting IP Address and Networking Parameters on a PowerFlex VFD

Parameters control the operation and command sources for VFDs. The PowerFlex series from Rockwell Automation is no exception. Learn how to adjust the parameters for networking and IP configuration.


Robot-To-PLC Handshaking

Robot-To-PLC Handshaking

Controlling an industrial robot can be done through the use of well-crafted signal handshakes. Follow along as we dive into several robot-to-PLC communication strategies.


Using a PLC to Track Data Within Automated Equipment

Using a PLC to Track Data Within Automated Equipment

There are a few options when it comes to tracking part data throughout a process or assembly of a machine. Follow along as we explain just a few of the more common methods.


Accelerate PLC Ladder Logic Learning with New Arduino Starter Kit

Accelerate PLC Ladder Logic Learning with New Arduino Starter Kit

Tackling a growing need for education in industrial automation, Arduino has launched a starter kit for PLC learning based on the new Opta, the PLC IDE, and hardware to integrate I/O devices.


News Apr 08, 2024 by David Peterson
New Products Expand Belden Solution Lineup for Connectivity and I/O

New Products Expand Belden Solution Lineup for Connectivity and I/O

Belden has introduced a set of new solutions for improved connectivity, faster speeds, and increased security in critical environments with new software and hardware products.


News Apr 04, 2024 by Austin Futrell
DCS vs. SCADA: What’s the Difference?

DCS vs. SCADA: What’s the Difference?

Controlling and optimizing plant processes is the goal of most control systems. It can be a challenge to distinguish between different types of control: a DCS or a high-level SCADA system?


Easily Integrate Smart Sensor Networks: Banner’s New IO-Link Hubs

Easily Integrate Smart Sensor Networks: Banner’s New IO-Link Hubs

Save space and time with Banner Engineering’s new R130C and the R95C series IO-Link hubs. These hubs allow customers to connect up to 16 sensors or actuators for wider network signal distribution.


News Apr 03, 2024 by Joshua Tidwell
Understanding Industrial Ethernet Connections: RJ45, Fiber, M12, and SFP

Understanding Industrial Ethernet Connections: RJ45, Fiber, M12, and SFP

Ethernet switches can use four different types of connections: RJ45, fiber, M12, and SFP. Understanding the difference can help with network troubleshooting, design, or alteration.


Pilz Enhances PSENradar Vision for Safe Operation in Tough Environments

Pilz Enhances PSENradar Vision for Safe Operation in Tough Environments

Asymmetrical zone monitoring can be challenging, but Pilz's newest additions to its safe radar system are designed to enable users to safely monitor protection zones in challenging environments and confined spaces.


News Mar 28, 2024 by Damond Goodwin
Manage Single Pair Ethernet Networks: BEETLE Switch From Belden

Manage Single Pair Ethernet Networks: BEETLE Switch From Belden

Single Pair Ethernet, or SPE, is a technology that aims to reduce the size and complexity of network wiring while providing long-distance signal accuracy. The new switch from Belden manages SPE networks.


News Mar 27, 2024 by Austin Futrell
Softing’s Latest smartLink Devices, Now With PROFINET Network Access

Softing’s Latest smartLink Devices, Now With PROFINET Network Access

Softing Industrial has unleashed the flexibility of protocols with the latest devices in its smartLink product lineup. The new hardware gateway and software module give users access to PROFINET networks.


News Mar 15, 2024 by Seth Price
Schneider Electric, Intel, and Red Hat Create Open Automation Infrastructure

Schneider Electric, Intel, and Red Hat Create Open Automation Infrastructure

In collaboration with Intel and Red Hat, Schneider Electric has created a next-generation, open automation infrastructure to help replace vendor-specific infrastructure with software-based control systems.


News Mar 07, 2024 by Damond Goodwin