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Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Considerations for Robot Cells

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Considerations for Robot Cells

Programming, price, and safety are usually top considerations when choosing a PLC for a small robot cell. But how do each of these key considerations reflect in the day-to-day life of a control engineer?


Data Science for Control Systems

Data Science for Control Systems

Data science is a multidisciplinary field crucial to modern automation. In this article, learn about data science concepts and best practices.


Data Types Used in LabVIEW

Data Types Used in LabVIEW

LabVIEW uses different data types to store and convey information. Let’s review the most common types and how they are used in the program.


What is a Data Lake?

What is a Data Lake?

Learn the fundaments of data lakes and how they are important to digital transformation under Industry 4.0.


Simple File Output in LabVIEW

Simple File Output in LabVIEW

The scope of this article shows one method of writing data to a file using LabVIEW software, and when this type of data acquisition and recording is appropriate.


M2M Communication: Is Ethernet or Wireless Better?

M2M Communication: Is Ethernet or Wireless Better?

Efficient communication between machines is key in industrial automation. As both Ethernet and wireless network technologies improve, which one is poised to take the lead in the future?


The Difference Between Linear and Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

The Difference Between Linear and Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Finite element analysis (FEA) helps foster our understanding of the physical phenomena within engineering designs. Dive into FEA’s foundation and how it handles linear and nonlinear applications.


Optical Fiber: The Future of Industrial Communications?

Optical Fiber: The Future of Industrial Communications?

Fiber optics is a promising technology for the future of industrial automation. In this article, learn the history, fundamentals, and application of fiber optics.


What is Fuzzy Logic?

What is Fuzzy Logic?

Learn how to utilize fuzzy logic as a powerful tool in modern control applications.


Different Types of Automated Pallet Transfer Systems

Different Types of Automated Pallet Transfer Systems

Automated pallet transfer systems consist of chain conveyors, roller conveyors, and T-carts. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?


Pain Points and Solutions in Laser Welding: Melt Flow and Asymmetric Parts

Pain Points and Solutions in Laser Welding: Melt Flow and Asymmetric Parts

We finish exploring some challenges and trends in laser welding with melt flow and asymmetric parts.


What Is the Difference Between Profibus and Profinet?

What Is the Difference Between Profibus and Profinet?

An overview of the requirements, standards, applications, and main differences between Profinet and Profibus communication protocol, connectors, and evolution from its original technology.


Pain Points and Solutions in Laser Welding: Cracking

Pain Points and Solutions in Laser Welding: Cracking

We continue our exploration of some challenges and trends in laser welding. This article explores cracking.


Pain Points and Solutions in Laser Welding: Porosity

Pain Points and Solutions in Laser Welding: Porosity

Explore the biggest challenges and trends in laser welding, starting with porosity.


Decision-making Structures in LabVIEW

Decision-making Structures in LabVIEW

Choosing between a select? structure and a case structure to form your decision-making structure in LabVIEW? In this article, we’ll review how each of these structures suits different applications.


Introduction to AS-Interface (ASi)

Introduction to AS-Interface (ASi)

ASi is a pioneering standard in automation technology that helps simplify and lower field device integration costs.


What is the Difference Between IoT and Cloud Computing?

What is the Difference Between IoT and Cloud Computing?

IoT infrastructure consists of many factory parts, one being cloud computing. Rather than ask how they’re different, let’s look into how they work together to form industry 4.0.


LabVIEW Loops Explained

LabVIEW Loops Explained

In programming languages, loops control processes and instrumentation. Learn how to set up while loops, for loops, and other types of loops in LabVIEW.


An Introduction to Ball Valves in Control Systems

An Introduction to Ball Valves in Control Systems

In control systems using fluid or airflow, ball valves can restrict pressure leaks and connect instruments in a network.


Heavy Duty Pressure Transducers for Industrial Applications

Heavy Duty Pressure Transducers for Industrial Applications

How can heavy-duty pressure transducers operate in harsh industrial environments?