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Explaining the Tech: Common vs. Isolated PLC I/O Modules

Explaining the Tech: Common vs. Isolated PLC I/O Modules

Learn the difference between common and individually isolated PLC I/O modules; how do we know when isolation might be helpful or required for outputs, inputs, and analog signals?


Virtual Control Systems For Real World Applications

Virtual Control Systems For Real World Applications

These days, a virtual PLC is not only for simulations; it can also be used to read real-world inputs, turn on outputs, or initiate motion. Follow along as we dive deep into the world of virtual PLCs.


AutomationDirect Adds I/O Modules to Productivity PLC Family

AutomationDirect Adds I/O Modules to Productivity PLC Family

The newest additions include low-noise solid-state relay output modules, 16-bit resolution thermocouple modules, and a dual-purpose discrete/relay combination module.


News Feb 24, 2026 by Seth Price
Industrial Connectivity and DataOps: Work Together to Unlock Your Manufacturing Data

Industrial Connectivity and DataOps: Work Together to Unlock Your Manufacturing Data

Working with data is no simple task. It requires a solid understanding of how to acquire the data, process it, and then use it to deliver tangible benefits to the operation and the company.


Working With Data: Looping Through Arrays In A PLC

Working With Data: Looping Through Arrays In A PLC

Arrays can handle large amounts of data, but when you need to extract a portion of that data, you might need to execute a loop. Learn a few examples and tips for creating loops in PLC logic.


Crouzet Launches New Millenium PLC with Expanded Features

Crouzet Launches New Millenium PLC with Expanded Features

The New Millenium PLC from Crouzet adds Ethernet, Modbus RS-485, scalable I/O, and easier software upgrades from Millenium 3.


News Feb 14, 2026 by Seth Price
Obtaining System Values in a PLC

Obtaining System Values in a PLC

It’s easy to obtain I/O values for local and remote modules and network nodes. But what about system data that’s built into the PLC? How can we access and use that information?


Banner Launches Remote Safe I/O Block, Configured Using Studio 5000

Banner Launches Remote Safe I/O Block, Configured Using Studio 5000

The RSio Remote Safe I/O features a machine-mountable, IP67-rated housing and supports up to 192 devices per block. For a “no learning curve” setup, the block is configured in Rockwell’s Studio 5000.


News Feb 11, 2026 by Seth Price
Mean Well Releases PLC With Open-Source OpenPLC Architecture

Mean Well Releases PLC With Open-Source OpenPLC Architecture

The modular PLC-DPLC-32MT/ET series offers expandable I/O capability up to 256 I/O points. The PLCs are programmed with the OpenPLC Editor, supporting the five IEC-61131 programming languages.


News Feb 11, 2026 by Shawn Dietrich
Phoenix Contact Introduces PLC-Interface Ethernet Gateway

Phoenix Contact Introduces PLC-Interface Ethernet Gateway

The new modular remote relay system handles up to 56 I/O channels and supports EtherNet/IP, PROFINET Class C, and Modbus/TCP, as well as S2 redundancy for simple decentralized applications.


News Feb 07, 2026 by Seth Price
The Conveyor | January 2026 Control, Automation, and Robotics News

The Conveyor | January 2026 Control, Automation, and Robotics News

Check out our quick summary of last month’s product announcements, company news, and research insights from around the world of industrial automation and control.


News Feb 05, 2026 by David Peterson
Beckhoff Launches Seven New EtherCAT Analog Terminals

Beckhoff Launches Seven New EtherCAT Analog Terminals

The high-density analog I/O terminals feature 16-bit resolution and up to eight channels. The launch includes analog input terminals, analog output terminals, and a combined analog input/output terminal.


News Feb 03, 2026 by Seth Price
New to PLCs? Five Critical Features Every Beginner Should Know

New to PLCs? Five Critical Features Every Beginner Should Know

Learn five essential features to consider when selecting a controller, from I/O and software licensing to networks and web access.


Aaeon’s Modular Workstation With MXM 3.1 Type A/B GPU Compatibility

Aaeon’s Modular Workstation With MXM 3.1 Type A/B GPU Compatibility

The new MEX-BTS system box with MXM 3.1 Type A/B compatibility supports advanced applications on the factory floor, as well as AI-assisted imaging in medical applications and smart surveillance.


News Jan 30, 2026 by Shawn Dietrich
First Test Run: Getting to Know the Bosch Rexroth ctrlX CORE

First Test Run: Getting to Know the Bosch Rexroth ctrlX CORE

Get a first look at Bosch Rexroth’s ctrlX CORE, an industrial PC that unifies PLC, motion, and HMI through an app-based automation platform.


OnLogic Introduces Palm-Sized Industrial PC for Edge Computing

OnLogic Introduces Palm-Sized Industrial PC for Edge Computing

The new CL260 is an ultra-compact, cost-effective fanless IPC suitable for deployment in space-constrained industrial IoT and automation applications.


News Jan 27, 2026 by Shawn Dietrich
Using Factory I/O With a Virtual Siemens S7-1200 PLC

Using Factory I/O With a Virtual Siemens S7-1200 PLC

Learn how to control the Factory I/O PLC system simulator using a virtual Siemens S7-1200 PLC, a great tool for testing, training, and automation development without hardware.


Yokogawa Debuts OpreX Intelligent Edge Controller A8 With Data Stream

Yokogawa Debuts OpreX Intelligent Edge Controller A8 With Data Stream

The Linux-based controller features a new data-centric development architecture, enabling application reusability, and an inter-controller time synchronization functionality, coordinating up to 16 units.


News Jan 22, 2026 by Seth Price
Tutorial: Setting up an Inovance HMI With A Mitsubishi PLC

Tutorial: Setting up an Inovance HMI With A Mitsubishi PLC

This guide shows you how to create a simple Inovance HMI project and connect it to a Mitsubishi PLC using serial and Ethernet methods, including practical setup steps and common mistakes to avoid.


Lanner Electronics Releases Industrial PC Designed for Edge AI Applications

Lanner Electronics Releases Industrial PC Designed for Edge AI Applications

The EAI-I351 embedded AI platform is powered by NVIDIA Jetson Thor, offering real-time processing and control for industrial robots, AMRs, and smart factories.


News Jan 13, 2026 by Shawn Dietrich