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Understanding Computerized Maintenance Management Systems

A computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) is a software system that manages an entire company’s maintenance activities. It supports the maintenance personnel by helping to develop a database relevant to maintenance activities.

one day ago by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Using Sensors with Open Collector Outputs

This article discusses how to use sensors with open collector outputs and learning some of the module connections involved.

3 days ago by David Peterson

A Comparison of Mechanical Power Transmission Methods

In nearly every machine with motion, a selection of gears, belts, and chains sends power to the final mechanisms and power must be transmitted from the motor to the final load(s) device. Choosing between transmission methods isn’t always simple, but a few key properties can help to make the choices easier.

5 days ago by David Peterson

How Object Detection Works in Machine Vision Applications

The following will introduce how machine vision and object recognition works and how developers are working on making it easier to integrate for more extensive market adoption. 

September 22, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

Power Supply Troubleshooting and Testing

This article discusses the proper steps for testing the supply for proper function.

September 21, 2020 by David Peterson

The Purpose of NPN Sensors in Control Systems

A typical control system uses PNP sensors and tends to be easier to visualize. For opposite polarity systems, the NPN sensor is the only compatible sensor type. Learn more about NPN sensors, including characteristics and uses.

September 19, 2020 by David Peterson

How to Perform a Site Acceptance Test

Learn about site acceptance tests (SATs), how they differ from and complement factory acceptance tests, and what the necessary steps entail.

September 17, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Understanding Different IP Enclosure Ratings

This article will provide an overview of the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, IEC standard 60529, sometimes referred to as International Protection code.

September 16, 2020 by Dennis Lynch

Methods for Power Supply Troubleshooting

Whether using an industrial DIN-rail power supply or a linear supply for an audio application, these devices have the potential to fail. Although there can be several reasons, there are a few simple (and some not-so-simple) methods of testing a power supply for proper functionality.

September 14, 2020 by David Peterson

How to Perform a Factory Acceptance Test

Learn about factory acceptance tests (FATs), including how the tests are created, where they are performed, and the responsibilities for both the buyer and manufacturer of the equipment.

September 13, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Orifice Plate Sizing for Flow Measurements

Learn about orifice plates and specifically how to size orifice plates for flow measurements and the different flow rates associated with them.

September 11, 2020 by David Peterson

The Evolution of Autonomous Mobile Robots

What are autonomous mobile robots and how did they come to be a crucial part of the industrial manufacturing industry?

September 09, 2020 by Damond Goodwin

An Overview of Pilot Valves

What are pilot valves and how do they work? This article dives into some of the different types and uses for these components.

September 07, 2020 by David Peterson

Applications of Data Structures and Data Types

This article discusses structure data types, structure tags, and various applications of user-defined structures.

September 05, 2020 by David Peterson

How to Reduce Electrical Noise on Sensors and Control Systems

Electrical noise is a common problem inside industrial facilities. The following will explain a few simple strategies for reducing this noise.

September 04, 2020 by David Peterson

Understanding Array Data Types

In this article, we’ll investigate the meaning of an array, but also explore some of the ways in which arrays can be used specifically within the context of a PLC system.

September 03, 2020 by David Peterson

The Importance of Material Selection in Manufacturing

The following will take a step back from IoT and machine data to see how engineering practices such as material selection and CAD can do more with less.  

September 02, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

How to Successfully Perform Root Cause Analysis

This article discusses the direct and indirect causes of Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and some effective solutions one can use to properly define RCA.

September 01, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Root Cause Analysis in Manufacturing: How Does it Work?

Root cause analysis (RCA) is a method used to identify the root of specific problems. Below are the steps necessary to complete RCA.

August 31, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Different Techniques for Condition Monitoring

Condition monitoring focuses on the physical parameters like temperature and vibration, rather than the product parameters.

August 29, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi