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CNC Hardware and PLC Hardware Signal Differences

Learn all about the differences between PLC and CNC hardware, and be informed in making the right decision. Although different, it is possible to interchange them, but challenges exist because of the hardware and devices being controlled.

About 5 hours ago by David Peterson

CNC Software vs. PLC Software

It can be easy to group CNCs and PLCs together since they are both run by digital processors and programs. Are they interchangeable? This article explores the possibility on a software level.

2 days ago by David Peterson

SICK Sensors Releases New Quality Inspection SensorApp and All-in-One Vision Sensor

SICK announced the release of its Inspector P62x sensor and Nova app solution that will perform tasks such as quality assurance and inspection.

October 13, 2020 by Ben Stepanian

OMRON Uses Intelligent Sensing Technology to Release New Laser Sensor for Conyer Operations

OMRON announced an industry first in sensing technology, the E3AS-HL complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) Laser Sensor.

October 08, 2020 by Stephanie Leonida

Common Sequencer Functions: SQO, SQI/SQL, SQC

Sequencer functions are used to perform a specific output pattern that needs continuous repeating. When there are more than three steps in a process, it is generally better to use a sequencer function rather than simple routines.

October 05, 2020 by Anish Devasia

Baumer Releases O200 Optical Sensor Suitable for Detecting Very Small Objects

Baumer’s newly developed O200 laser sensors can be used for detecting objects as small as 0.05 mm.

October 05, 2020 by Seth Price

An Overview of Sequential Function Chart (SFC) Programming

Sequential Function Chart (SFC) is a graphical programming language among the languages identified by IEC 61131-3 standard for PLC programming.

October 01, 2020 by Anish Devasia

Rockwell Automation Unveils New Allen-Bradley Motor Control Centers

Rockwell Automation released the new CENTERLINE 2500 Motor Control Centers with SecureConnect technology.

October 01, 2020 by Alessandro Mascellino

Fluke Leads Investment in Everactive to Accelerate Growth in IIoT and Sensor Solutions

Fluke Corp has invested in Everactive for its novelty sensor technology in hopes to accelerate IIoT technologies.

September 30, 2020 by Ben Stepanian

Kaman Introduces New Self-Contained Displacement Sensor to New Industries

Kaman Precision Products released the SC-2440 analog output displacement sensor designed for automated assembly.

September 28, 2020 by Stephanie Leonida

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.

September 25, 2020 by David Peterson

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.

September 19, 2020 by David Peterson

How to Perform a Factory Acceptance Test

Learn about factory acceptance tests (FATs), including how the tests are created, where they are performed, and the responsibilities for both the buyer and manufacturer of the equipment.

September 13, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

ABB Dynamic Assembly Pack: The Missing Piece in Automotive Assembly Applications

ABB's Dynamic Assembly Pack for Final Trim and Assembly combines real-time cameras with integrated force control sensors to allow robots to track positions more precisely.

September 10, 2020 by Sara McCaslin

Eaton Releases New Sensor for Tracking Machine Location and Machine Dynamics

Eaton introduces a new machine dynamics sensor, GFX, that enables operations for machinery, vehicles, and operators. 

September 08, 2020 by Stephanie Leonida

An Overview of Pilot Valves

What are pilot valves and how do they work? This article dives into some of the different types and uses for these components.

September 07, 2020 by David Peterson

Applications of Data Structures and Data Types

This article discusses structure data types, structure tags, and various applications of user-defined structures.

September 05, 2020 by David Peterson

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.

September 04, 2020 by David Peterson

Understanding Array Data Types

In this article, we’ll investigate the meaning of an array, but also explore some of the ways in which arrays can be used specifically within the context of a PLC system.

September 03, 2020 by David Peterson

Alternative PLC Programming Languages

For most systems, there are various languages meant for specific purposes, including Function Block, Sequential Charts, and Structured Text.

August 27, 2020 by David Peterson