Latest I/O Devices and Sensors Articles

Categories

Tutorial: How to Set Up a Light Curtain

Tutorial: How to Set Up a Light Curtain

Learn how to align and configure the parameters of a light curtain using a send/receive pair of SICK deTec4 light beam curtains and the new DCM4 extension module for advanced operating modes.


Customizing Light Curtain Configuration: Muting and Blanking

Customizing Light Curtain Configuration: Muting and Blanking

Some safety applications aren’t a simple on/off at all times; they need objects to pass through a light curtain without stopping the machine. For these, we turn to muting and blanking features.


Installing and Configuring Light Curtains

Installing and Configuring Light Curtains

Learn about safety light curtains: which one will fit your application, how to choose the proper size, and how to properly process the output signals.


Balluff Introduces Compact Inductive Position Sensors for Tight Spaces

Balluff Introduces Compact Inductive Position Sensors for Tight Spaces

The new BIP position sensor offers IO-Link and analog interfaces in a small, durable housing, making it ideal for precise monitoring in demanding, space-constrained applications.


News May 15, 2026 by Bob Odhiambo
Pepperl+Fuchs Releases Industrial Event Camera and 1D/2D Code Reader

Pepperl+Fuchs Releases Industrial Event Camera and 1D/2D Code Reader

The VOC industrial camera records images and videos 15 minutes before and after a fault event, while the CleverReader stationary code reader captures 1D and 2D codes at throughput speeds up to 3.5 m/s.


News Apr 26, 2026 by Seth Price
The 100,000-Hour Myth: Decoding Industrial LED Life Cycles

The 100,000-Hour Myth: Decoding Industrial LED Life Cycles

Why do "forever" LEDs fail? A technical guide on L70 standards, multi-voltage IC drivers, and a comparison of industry-leading LED manufacturers.


MODEX Brings Supply Chain Automation to Atlanta

MODEX Brings Supply Chain Automation to Atlanta

Mobility, inventory tracking, and efficient operations were the central themes of the recent trade show, focusing on supply chain automation at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.


News Apr 19, 2026 by David Peterson
Bihl+Wiedemann Releases Configurable ASi-5 Safety I/O Module

Bihl+Wiedemann Releases Configurable ASi-5 Safety I/O Module

The new safety I/O module, the BWU4277, replaces complexity with flexibility. The device features up to 14 safe inputs and two safe outputs, targeting a wide range of safety applications.


News Apr 19, 2026 by Seth Price
CAPTRON Highlights the “Human” in Human-Machine Interfaces

CAPTRON Highlights the “Human” in Human-Machine Interfaces

CAPTRON presented a well-rounded view of supply chain automation at MODEX, demonstrating effective, human-centric automation with Pick-by-Light and capacitive HMI solutions.


News Apr 15, 2026 by David Peterson
Metrics for the Motors: Encoder Products Company at MODEX

Metrics for the Motors: Encoder Products Company at MODEX

Migrating from open to closed-loop motor control can be tricky: resolution, form factor, signal protocol, programming compatibility… EPC brought a wide variety of solutions to MODEX 2026.


News Apr 14, 2026 by David Peterson
Cylinder and Gripper Monitoring: Festo Unveils Position Transmitter

Cylinder and Gripper Monitoring: Festo Unveils Position Transmitter

The SDAC-MHS C-slot programmable position transmitter provides continuous position feedback of grippers and actuators, delivering analog, digital, and IO-Link outputs in a single, compact package.


News Apr 10, 2026 by Seth Price
AutomationDirect Announces New Line of Unmanaged Ethernet Switches

AutomationDirect Announces New Line of Unmanaged Ethernet Switches

The Stride Pro Unmanaged+ industrial Ethernet switches build on the company’s basic unmanaged switches, offering enhanced networking features, including IGMP snooping and port mirroring.


News Mar 27, 2026 by Seth Price
New ABB 500 X Sensor Targets Harsh pH and ORP Applications

New ABB 500 X Sensor Targets Harsh pH and ORP Applications

Built for demanding processes, ABB’s 500 X sensor resists fouling and provides real-time data through EZLink connectivity.


News Mar 25, 2026 by Bob Odhiambo
A Legacy of Factory and Motion Control: Mitsubishi Electric Automation

A Legacy of Factory and Motion Control: Mitsubishi Electric Automation

Showcase, manufacturing, repair, and research: Join Control.com for a recap of our team’s recent visit to the US HQ of Mitsubishi Electric Automation, and see where the magic happens.


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?


Pepperl+Fuchs Releases Cubical Ultrasonic Sensor Series With IO-Link

Pepperl+Fuchs Releases Cubical Ultrasonic Sensor Series With IO-Link

Labeled a “true all-rounder,” the new UB*-F42 series delivers ultrasonic detection in a compact, robust package, targeting various applications in intralogistics, production, and material handling.


News Mar 04, 2026 by Seth Price
Schurter Releases Mechanical Switch With Standardized M12 Connector

Schurter Releases Mechanical Switch With Standardized M12 Connector

The new MSM II switch features an integrated M12 (8-pin) connector for simplified installation and built-in RGB illumination for visible machine status in industrial and commercial systems.


News Feb 24, 2026 by Austin Futrell
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
Camozzi Rolls Out Smart Flow Sensor Series for Improved Air Treatment

Camozzi Rolls Out Smart Flow Sensor Series for Improved Air Treatment

The FSX smart sensors monitor flow, temperature, pressure, and humidity in real-time. The sensors transmit data via Ethernet, and users can configure the series in Camozzi's user-friendly software.


News Feb 19, 2026 by Joshua Tidwell
Banner Adds IO-Link To Three-Axis Vibration and Temperature Sensors

Banner Adds IO-Link To Three-Axis Vibration and Temperature Sensors

In addition to IO-Link connectivity, Banner’s QM30VT3 sensors feature an ultra-low noise third axis for flexible installation and onboard machine learning for improved early fault detection.


News Feb 18, 2026 by Austin Futrell