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Joystick Controls: How Do You Use Them For Automated Systems?

Joystick Controls: How Do You Use Them For Automated Systems?

We usually think of joysticks in terms of video game controllers, but they exist in all kinds of industrial systems: heavy equipment, overhead cranes, and even some robotic controls. But how do they work?


Building a Temperature Controller Simulator Using OpenPLC and an Arduino

Building a Temperature Controller Simulator Using OpenPLC and an Arduino

Variable control allows external conditions, like temperature, to be monitored so the controller can activate devices to heat or cool the system as needed. Simulate a temp controller with low-cost components!


Promoting Worldwide Cobot Adoption: Universal Robots and Denali Unite

Promoting Worldwide Cobot Adoption: Universal Robots and Denali Unite

Universal Robots has announced its partnership with Denali Advanced Integration, focusing on providing enhanced integration and support services to aid cobot adoption for Industry 4.0.


News May 15, 2023 by Stephanie Leonida
Q20-2: A Polarized Retroreflective Sensor For Reliable Object Detection

Q20-2: A Polarized Retroreflective Sensor For Reliable Object Detection

Banner Engineering has released a long-range polarized retroreflective photoelectric sensor for object detection that uses high-end optics to allow for consistent and accurate alignment.


News May 14, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Kassow Robots Brings Its Highest Reaching 7-Axis Cobot To North America

Kassow Robots Brings Its Highest Reaching 7-Axis Cobot To North America

Copenhagen-born robot manufacturer, Kassow Robots, has released its longest-reaching cobot yet, the 7-axis KR1805, for sale in North America. The cobot will be on display at Automate 2023.


News May 12, 2023 by Damond Goodwin
A Toolbox “Must-have”: Finding Network Faults With the CableMaster 210

A Toolbox “Must-have”: Finding Network Faults With the CableMaster 210

Softing has released a network cable tester with continuous testing, tone generation, and individual conductor testing, allowing users to troubleshoot for a faulty or incorrectly connected cable quickly.


News May 11, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Introduction to Mitsubishi PLC - FX Series and MELSOFT GX Developer

Introduction to Mitsubishi PLC - FX Series and MELSOFT GX Developer

Mitsubishi's FX series PLC is one of MELSOFT GX Developer’s most popular automation solutions for small and medium-scale applications. Learn how to use GX Developer software to program the FX series PLC.


Vibration Sensors For Use In Condition Monitoring

Vibration Sensors For Use In Condition Monitoring

Vibration sensors measure the mechanical vibration of an object, making it possible to monitor machines for early signs of failure to prevent costly and dangerous breakdowns.


Omega Optimizes Data Collection With Virtual Chart Recorder and Web Server

Omega Optimizes Data Collection With Virtual Chart Recorder and Web Server

The iServer 2 Series Web Server and Virtual Chart Recorder from Omega Engineering collects, stores, and manages data collected by a variety of sensors, speeding up process monitoring and data logging operations.


News May 08, 2023 by Seth Price
HIWIN Expands Linear Axis Offerings, Adds Profile Width to Established Technology

HIWIN Expands Linear Axis Offerings, Adds Profile Width to Established Technology

HIWIN has added to its existing linear motor and cantilever axis product lines, with each model now available with a profile width of 100 mm, making for a compact linear motor axis and a larger, higher-performing cantilever axis.


News May 07, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Measuring the Force of Rotation: Torque Sensors

Measuring the Force of Rotation: Torque Sensors

Understanding torque is a key method of preventing damage to machines and ensuring a long lifespan. We have all heard of torque, but what is it, and how is it measured in automated systems?


How To: Simple Programming with AutomationDirect Productivity PLCs

How To: Simple Programming with AutomationDirect Productivity PLCs

AutomationDirect’s Productivity line of PLCs is known for cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Learn how to build and download a simple program using discrete input and output ladder commands.


HMS Networks Expands Anybus Offerings With New Business Line and Wireless Technology

HMS Networks Expands Anybus Offerings With New Business Line and Wireless Technology

HMS Networks has expanded its Anybus portfolio with products and services designed to help diagnose industrial network-related issues and provide seamless wireless connectivity.


News May 03, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
8-Port IO-Link Master Designed for Compact and Powerful Edge Processing

8-Port IO-Link Master Designed for Compact and Powerful Edge Processing

Banner Engineering has taken steps to improve the usability of IO-Link devices with the release of the compact DXMR110 8-Port IO-Link Master for simplified connection between devices to the control cabinet.


News May 03, 2023 by Damond Goodwin
Testing the Limits: Capabilities of the Limit Switch

Testing the Limits: Capabilities of the Limit Switch

Limit switches are electromechanical devices that open or close contacts when external pressure is applied to an actuator. This solves a simple problem faced by motion devices: limiting movement


Accurate Tracking: A Look at Position and Distance Sensors

Accurate Tracking: A Look at Position and Distance Sensors

Engineering processes like robotics, feedback control, and security systems rely on position and distance sensors to provide real-time information that enables machines to operate accurately and safely.


Understanding Microelectromechanical System (MEMS) Sensors

Understanding Microelectromechanical System (MEMS) Sensors

MEMS sensors enable the creation of highly sensitive, compact, and low-power devices for measuring quantities like acceleration, magnetic fields, pressure, and more, and are found in automotive safety systems, navigation, and environmental monitoring.


Pepperl+Fuchs Showcases Latest Sensing Solutions at Hannover Messe 2023

Pepperl+Fuchs Showcases Latest Sensing Solutions at Hannover Messe 2023

Making an appearance at Hannover Messe 2023, Pepperl+Fuchs showed off its latest in automation, including its newest sensing solutions: a MEMS scanner, ultrasonic sensor, and layer thickness sensor.


News Apr 27, 2023 by Seth Price
Nearly 100 Years After First Invention, ABB Launches Next Generation of Miniature Circuit Breakers

Nearly 100 Years After First Invention, ABB Launches Next Generation of Miniature Circuit Breakers

ABB has improved its miniature circuit breaker (MCB) technology nearly 100 years after ABB first launched the technology. The new generation of MCBs is designed for greater efficiency, performance, and ease of use.


News Apr 25, 2023 by Damond Goodwin
Trading Customization for Flexibility: Roundup of Robot Gripper Ecosystems

Trading Customization for Flexibility: Roundup of Robot Gripper Ecosystems

A recently common term applied to systems of standardized robot grippers is an ‘ecosystem,’ but what does this actually mean, and what are some examples of implementation in manufacturing industries?


News Apr 24, 2023 by David Peterson