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Tutorial: Analog I/O Programming for AutomationDirect Productivity PLCs

Learn how to use analog I/O devices with AutomationDirect’s Productivity series of PLCs and Productivity Suite software. Wiring, configuring I/O, and programming will be a part of this tutorial.

April 02, 2024 by David Peterson

Temp Sensing With RTDs: Wiring Connection and Transmitter Setup

Learn how to measure temperature using an RTD and a temperature transmitter to convert resistance into common analog voltage or current values for process control.

April 01, 2024 by Munir Ahmad

Control Bits: A Roundup of Automation News You May Have Missed

Flow controllers, sensors, AI, motors, conveyors… Check out the Control editorial team's top picks for news and headlines from the world of robotics and control automation over the past few weeks!

March 14, 2024 by David Peterson

Red Lion Expands FlexEdge With New Strain Gauge and Com Modules

Red Lion has added a new series of strain gauge modules to their FlexEdge intelligent edge automation platform, along with two ‘sleds’ allowing connection to CAN and J1939 automotive networks.

February 21, 2024 by Seth Price

Accelerometers and Gyroscopes: Understanding The Metrics of Motion

Many sensors, like prox, optical, and ultrasonic, are familiar to control engineers. More and more modern devices are incorporating advanced motion profiles requiring motion sensing in many axes.

February 19, 2024 by David Peterson

How to Convert Numbers: Binary, Decimal, and Hex Systems

Converting different numbering systems is quite common in PLCs and structured text codes. Why? Because people read decimals. Computers read binary. Processors read sets of bits. Not so simple.

January 10, 2024 by David Peterson

PLC Naming Conventions: How Should I Write My Tag Labels?

It’s important to consider your PLC tag naming convention when using different styles. Learn when and why you might even use more than one, depending on the circumstances and scope of your project.

December 28, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

ABB Launches Advanced Industrial Process Control with Ability FIM 3.0

ABB enhances connectivity and interoperability for industrial field instruments by releasing its Ability Field Information Manager 3.0, optimizing oversight of operations for improved productivity.

December 25, 2023 by Stephanie Leonida

Emerson Introduces Latest Innovations Designed for Smooth Operation

Emerson has released two new system components: a high-flow solenoid valve and a digital process controller. Both products are designed to keep processes running smoothly across different applications.

November 30, 2023 by Seth Price

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

Yokogawa Expands OpreX To Include Digital P&ID Interpretation

In an effort to boost automation efficiency across large systems, Yokogawa's OpreX Data Model Broker can now translate P&ID documents into parts lists and XML.

October 16, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

OnLogic Joins Inductive Automation’s Partner Program

As an Inductive Automation Alliance Partner Program member, OnLogic’s hardware offerings are now more accessible to Ignition software users.

October 13, 2023 by Stephanie Leonida

Loop Powered Process Displays to Add Easy Measurements

Have you ever needed to know the temperature, pressure, flow, or other measurement on location, but the readout is way off in the control room? Here’s an easy way to add a readout in the field.

October 03, 2023 by Harry Trietley

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

User-Friendly, OMRON’s New H5CC Digital Timer Offers Seamless Industrial Timing Control

OMRON recently released its new H5CC digital timer. Combining features from five OMRON designs, the Industry 4.0-ready device offers an easily accessible programming interface and predictive maintenance functionality in a compact package.

September 01, 2023 by Bob Odhiambo

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

Small-Scale Automation Projects: Setting the Table for Raspberry Pi

Automation can be inexpensive for small projects by using development boards. This article presents a walkthrough of the setup and installation steps for the popular Raspberry Pi.

August 27, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

Optimizing Single-Run PLC Bits and Tasks for Startup Processes

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are designed as an endlessly-looping program, examining all lines of code as rapidly as possible. Following are a few critical tips for when programmers only need to run a series of single operations at startup.

August 21, 2023 by David Peterson

Three Things About IO-Link Sensors That May Shock You

Control.com’s Director of Engineering got to explore IO-Link sensors and what he found might surprise you! Although still considered an “emerging” technology, it’s clear IO-Link technology boasts several bonafide benefits over traditional sensors.

August 15, 2023 by David Peterson

Enabling Advanced Automation With Omron’s New NX5 Series PLC

Omron’s NX5 series PLC is designed with IIoT in mind, including standard OPC UA and direct connection to relational databases such as SQL, all without the need for additional hardware or licensing.

August 13, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich