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Data Flow Tutorial With Mage.ai | Part 3: Connecting to Google Sheets

In this article, we will explore the inbound integration to the mage.ai pipeline, connecting to the spreadsheet data source using the Google Sheets API through a JSON credentials file.

2 days ago by Michael Levanduski

Troubleshooting PLCs and I/O Modules Using Tools and Instruments

When inputs or outputs stop working, the equipment fails to respond and money starts slipping away. Dive into the concept of troubleshooting I/O without ever opening the PLC software.

November 21, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

Troubleshooting PLCs: Recognizing Visual Status Indicators and LEDs

Machine downtime can be very stressful for everybody involved. Next time you face a challenging system failure, try some of these LED troubleshooting techniques to reduce stress.

November 14, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

WAGO’s New Advanced PLC CPUs Provide Cost-Effective Control Solution

WAGO has recently released two PLC CPU modules, the Basic Controller 100 series, offering cost-effective control solutions while providing advanced communication and programming features.

November 14, 2023 by Bob Odhiambo

History and High-Tech Merge in Boston at Rockwell’s Automation Fair

Automation Fair was held in Boston on Nov 6-9, showcasing Rockwell Automation’s industrial partnerships, new technology, and recent acquisitions in a stellar conference and expo show.

November 09, 2023 by David Peterson

Handling of Power System Data: Engineering Limits and Data Currency

Power systems rely on meaningful data, as do most other processes. Within SCADA environments, individual data points are tracked, compared to limits, and evaluated to obtain current readings.

November 08, 2023 by Munir Ahmad

Rockwell Automation Establishes New FactoryTalk Optix Portfolio

Rockwell Automation has recently released its new FactoryTalk Optix Portfolio, featuring five core solutions to help users customize for their specific data visualization needs.

October 31, 2023 by Damond Goodwin

Industrial Computing Tackles the Challenge of Long Rebooting Time

Rebooting industrial controllers and computers incurs costs, not only from the downtime but also from cascading effects of communication with up/downstream controllers. How can this downtime be managed?

October 30, 2023 by Seth Price

New PFM to Analog Output Converters Provide Easy Signal Integration

Banner Engineering has recently released the new R45C PFM to analog signal converter that can be easily installed into systems to allow seamless communication between devices.

October 19, 2023 by Bob Odhiambo

Low-Code and No-Code Programming: Purpose and Strategy

Innovation has a single purpose: to create better solutions, meaning more efficient output with faster development and troubleshooting. It starts with the strategies used to program machines.

October 02, 2023 by Seth Price

PLC CPU Modes Explained: Run, Stop, and Program

A PLC can be placed in Run or Stop, or occasionally Program mode, usually through physical or virtual methods. But what do these modes mean, and when should they be used?

September 18, 2023 by David Peterson

Beijer’s Nexto BCS-NX3008 PLC Now Certified for Industry 4.0 Innovation

A key player on Beijer’s Nexto PLC bench, the BCS-NX3008 CPU was recently awarded UL and DNV certifications paving the way for the future of Industry 4.0 automation and control.

September 15, 2023 by Bob Odhiambo

Packing It Up: Summary of the Las Vegas Pack Expo 2023

2,000 exciting displays, 4 massive exhibition halls, 1 gigantic show to highlight the advancements in the packaging and processing industries in 2023. Check out the sights from Pack Expo!

September 13, 2023 by David Peterson

Managing Program Versions: Use Git to Commit and Track Files

If you’re working collaboratively with teams in a corporate industrial setting and require a version control system for critical software or documents, Git is a must-have in your skillset.

September 07, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

PLC Programming: Best Practices for Function Block Diagrams

Function block diagrams can be a useful tool, but they can also add a lot of complexity. Learn about the what, when, where, and why of function block diagram (FBD) programming.

September 05, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

Ethernet Ports on Controllers: How Many, and What do They Do?

Some controllers and network devices have one port, while others have two. Why is there a difference, and what advantages does having two network ports actually provide?

September 04, 2023 by Seth Price

Pack Accordingly: Pack Expo Returns to Las Vegas on Sept. 11-13

With all eyes on innovation, Control.com will be in attendance, ready to learn about the latest products and solutions from the industry’s top experts and industry minds.

September 04, 2023 by Steve Kuehn

Deep Dive into PLC Sequential Function Chart (SFC) Programming

Sequential function charts (SFCs) are a great tool when processes require sequence control, but things can get complicated fast. Here are some ways to create better SFC programs and applications.

August 31, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

SICK’s New DT80 Extends Distance Sensing Precision

Offering unprecedented range and precision, SICK’s DT80 represents a leap in accuracy and signal fidelity that goes the distance.

August 30, 2023 by Bryan Christiansen, Limble CMMS

PLC Programming With Function Block Diagrams

Function block diagram (FBD) programming is a common language for PLCs following the IEC 61131 standard. What is FBD, and how does it differ from the familiar ladder logic programs?

August 29, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich