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The Science of Mechanical Motion: Gears and Pulleys

The Science of Mechanical Motion: Gears and Pulleys

The choice of load device and transmission method often dictates what kind of control system is used, so it’s important to be familiar with the mechanical and electrical components of a system.


Using Sensors with Open Collector Outputs

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.


The Purpose of NPN Sensors in Control Systems

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.


Understanding Different IP Enclosure Ratings

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.


Orifice Plate Sizing for Flow Measurements

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.


How to Reduce Electrical Noise on Sensors and Control Systems

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.


Comparison of Modbus Over TCP/IP and Profinet

Comparison of Modbus Over TCP/IP and Profinet

Two of the most common protocols are Modbus and Profinet. They are similar in many ways, but there are some crucial differences.


Common NEMA Enclosure Ratings 

Common NEMA Enclosure Ratings 

This article discusses several different types of NEMA enclosure ratings and which one may be the right one for your specific applications.


Overview of Motor Contactors and AC Drives

Overview of Motor Contactors and AC Drives

This article discusses motor contractors and how they play an essential role in most robotic cells.


Integral Windup Method in PID Control

Integral Windup Method in PID Control

Integral or Reset Windup is a problem that can occur from these systems, and there are a few possible approaches to minimize the effects.


An Overview of Integral Gain

An Overview of Integral Gain

This article discusses the meaning of integral gain and how to calculate integral gain to achieve better control results.


Soft vs. Direct On-line Motor Starting

Soft vs. Direct On-line Motor Starting

Get to know the hows and whys of choosing the proper start-up method of motors in different applications.


Utilizing Exoskeleton Robots for Industrial Applications

Utilizing Exoskeleton Robots for Industrial Applications

Learn all about exoskeletons, a way to fuse robotics and humans in ways that can help the manufacturing process while protecting the human body from excessive strain.


An Introduction to Gray Code for Encoders

An Introduction to Gray Code for Encoders

This article introduces Gray code, a specialized binary arrangement necessary for absolute encoders to communicate with controllers.


Advanced Control Techniques for Collaborative Manipulators

Advanced Control Techniques for Collaborative Manipulators

Learn all about the collaborative robots (cobots) that work alongside humans and the many advanced strategies put in place so they can function efficiently and safely in industrial settings.


SCADA System Usage in the Daily Life of an Engineer

SCADA System Usage in the Daily Life of an Engineer

Learn how one engineer's real-world experience showed him the importance and power of SCADA systems for control automation.


Introduction to the Fundamentals of Pneumatic Vacuums

Introduction to the Fundamentals of Pneumatic Vacuums

Vacuum pressures are not uncommon, but they can be more complicated than standard air systems. This article explores pneumatic vacuums, exploring applications, uses, and types.


How to Use a Multimeter to Measure Current

How to Use a Multimeter to Measure Current

This article will examine and discuss how to measure current with a multimeter, using the standard in-line current measuring method.


How to Measure AC Voltage With a Multimeter

How to Measure AC Voltage With a Multimeter

Simple voltage measurements from a multimeter are the most frequently used function in these tools. Some of them are more difficult to understand than others, and this is definitely the case when comparing AC to DC voltage.


Wet vs. Dry Contacts: Knowing the Difference

Wet vs. Dry Contacts: Knowing the Difference

Wiring design systems can become confusing when some switching devices send power to the load automatically while others do not. Often called ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ contacts, these devices are fairly easy to troubleshoot once the differences are understood.