Even with the most reliable networks, network outages are inevitable for a host of reasons, and managing these outages in VFD systems becomes critically important.
Even with the most reliable networks, network outages are inevitable for a host of reasons, and managing these outages in VFD systems becomes critically important.
Control Automation Day 2022 will be on June 21st, focusing on PLC systems, packed with keynote addresses, educational…
Control Automation Day 2022 will be on June 21st, focusing on PLC systems, packed with keynote addresses, educational live sessions, and exciting giveaways from your favorite manufacturers!
Allen Bradley’s Data Highway Plus (DH+) networking ability is still found commonly in interfaces with legacy equipment.…
Allen Bradley’s Data Highway Plus (DH+) networking ability is still found commonly in interfaces with legacy equipment. Understanding this network structure can bridge the gap between old and new systems.
Although the are similarities in operating theory, relays and contactors are used in industrial circuits for different…
Although the are similarities in operating theory, relays and contactors are used in industrial circuits for different specific applications, and should not be used interchangeably.
What’s the difference between a Cat 6 and a Cat 6a cable, anyhow? Ethernet cables must meet certain performance…
What’s the difference between a Cat 6 and a Cat 6a cable, anyhow? Ethernet cables must meet certain performance standards, and these standards can be quite confusing at first glance.
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft research organization announces the development of a sensor system that can help robots…
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft research organization announces the development of a sensor system that can help robots detect transparent objects in three dimensions.
Rockwell recently announced the newest addition to the PowerFlex family of VFD units - the Armor PowerFlex series,…
Rockwell recently announced the newest addition to the PowerFlex family of VFD units - the Armor PowerFlex series, designed for on-machine control with heightened IP ratings over previous models.
In the first article of this series, we investigate Siemens as a major PLC manufacturer, learning about the hardware,…
In the first article of this series, we investigate Siemens as a major PLC manufacturer, learning about the hardware, software, and key applications of each product lineup.
The Keyence Corporation recently announced the NQ series network communication module, with the ability to automatically…
The Keyence Corporation recently announced the NQ series network communication module, with the ability to automatically detect any Keyence branded IO-Link devices for rapid installation and monitoring.
Hydraulic component leader Parker Hannifin recently announced a new PAC motion controller and module series with…
Hydraulic component leader Parker Hannifin recently announced a new PAC motion controller and module series with web-based visualization for instant remote monitoring of up to 40 motion axes.
Two common methods exist for driving induction motors with VFDs - linear scalar control, which is often labeled as V/f,…
Two common methods exist for driving induction motors with VFDs - linear scalar control, which is often labeled as V/f, and vector, or field-oriented control, which can be a bit more complex to understand.
Using an ADC can be very useful when dealing with analog devices in microprocessors, and a necessity when adding analog…
Using an ADC can be very useful when dealing with analog devices in microprocessors, and a necessity when adding analog devices to an industrial controller. But once you connect the hardware - what next?
Beckhoff Automation is advancing the concept of reducing cabinet space and lowering construction time with their recently…
Beckhoff Automation is advancing the concept of reducing cabinet space and lowering construction time with their recently announced MX-System.
Advanced features such as programmable limits, diagnostics, and remote configuration are available with IO-Link devices.…
Advanced features such as programmable limits, diagnostics, and remote configuration are available with IO-Link devices. Learn how to connect an example IO-Link block into an actual PLC project.
Linear position sensors are used in electrical and fluid-actuated motion devices. They allow extremely precise position,…
Linear position sensors are used in electrical and fluid-actuated motion devices. They allow extremely precise position, velocity, and acceleration control, and provide feedback to ensure product quality and tolerance compliance.
Commander S series of variable frequency drives from Control Techniques enables parameter upload and download as well as…
Commander S series of variable frequency drives from Control Techniques enables parameter upload and download as well as performance monitoring through secure NFC, app-based communication.
Before digital control systems, responses were fairly slow. Push a button, and a motor contactor engaged. These days, the…
Before digital control systems, responses were fairly slow. Push a button, and a motor contactor engaged. These days, the speed of computers introduces some new challenges but brings solutions as well.
Modbus is a communication protocol stemming from the early days of Modicon PLCs, but is still common today. These two…
Modbus is a communication protocol stemming from the early days of Modicon PLCs, but is still common today. These two example implementations of Modbus transactions will get you started.
Inductive loads, such as solenoids and contactors, can cause arcs and failures back into electromechanical switching…
Inductive loads, such as solenoids and contactors, can cause arcs and failures back into electromechanical switching devices, causing costly downtime. The solution is cheaper than you think.
Beijer Electronics recently announced the M Series of distributed I/O to provide on-machine control with a variety of…
Beijer Electronics recently announced the M Series of distributed I/O to provide on-machine control with a variety of communication options for system flexibility.