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Data Flow Tutorial With Mage.ai | Part 3: Connecting to Google Sheets

In this article, we will explore the inbound integration to the mage.ai pipeline, connecting to the spreadsheet data source using the Google Sheets API through a JSON credentials file.

4 days ago by Michael Levanduski

Troubleshooting PLCs and I/O Modules Using Tools and Instruments

When inputs or outputs stop working, the equipment fails to respond and money starts slipping away. Dive into the concept of troubleshooting I/O without ever opening the PLC software.

November 21, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

Identifying and Troubleshooting Pressure Changes in Fluid Systems

Pressures are always rising and falling in fluid systems. Sometimes the changes are extreme and lead to damage. What causes problematic pressure changes, and how can you trace them to their source?

November 15, 2023 by Damond Goodwin

Using Loop Powered Isolators to Solve Ground Loop Problems

Many signal sources and process transmitters do not include isolation, which can cause problems when the instruments are at different locations. A loop powered isolator is often the solution.

October 08, 2023 by Harry Trietley

Human Machine Interface (HMI): Controls and Data Types

An overview of HMI data types, input controls, output indicators, and message functions, the building blocks used to construct informative and appealing HMI applications.

October 04, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

5 Reasons Why Sensors Are Crucial For Modern Manufacturing

Data has become the currency that enables operational excellence. Sensors are the key links, acting as the eyes and ears of modern manufacturing units by providing real-time data on machine performance.

October 03, 2023 by Eric Whitley, L2L

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

Understanding Fiber Optic’s Role in Photoelectric Sensing

Photoelectric sensors and fiber optic sensors are very similar in a lot of ways, but which one is superior in function and durability, and under what conditions might one be preferred?

September 21, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

PLC CPU Modes Explained: Run, Stop, and Program

A PLC can be placed in Run or Stop, or occasionally Program mode, usually through physical or virtual methods. But what do these modes mean, and when should they be used?

September 18, 2023 by David Peterson

PLC Programming: Best Practices for Function Block Diagrams

Function block diagrams can be a useful tool, but they can also add a lot of complexity. Learn about the what, when, where, and why of function block diagram (FBD) programming.

September 05, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

Ethernet Ports on Controllers: How Many, and What do They Do?

Some controllers and network devices have one port, while others have two. Why is there a difference, and what advantages does having two network ports actually provide?

September 04, 2023 by Seth Price

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

A Tale of Two Standards | Comparing Analog Voltage and Current

Analog voltage and current are the dominating standards for industrial technology. Is one format better than the other? And if so, why do both signal types still exist in modern systems?

August 28, 2023 by David Peterson

How to Design and Deploy a Web-Based HMI Project - Part 1

A walkthrough and discussion of a simple web-based HMI solution that could modernize your current HMI technology stack. The first step in the process involves sending data from a device to a server.

August 16, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

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

System Dynamic and Frequency Response Analysis

Understanding the building blocks of s-domain analysis and magnitude response theory can go a long way in helping engineers predict how and why some system design choices are made over others.

August 10, 2023 by Antonio Armenta

How to Design and Deploy a Web-Based HMI Project - Part 4

Refining and integrating a front-end HMI application to an API middle layer with real-time data display and historian capabilities for short-term data visualization.

August 09, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

How to Design and Deploy a Web-Based HMI Project - Part 3

Learn the first steps in focusing on the integration of a front-end HMI application to an API middle layer.

August 09, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

How to Design and Deploy a Web-Based HMI Project - Part 2

The middle layer, or API layer of a custom-built HMI project involves a server that can submit or receive data to and from a device, either to provide the user interface or interact with the machine.

August 09, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

What Does ‘Explosion Proof’ Mean, and Who Should Care?

Some workplaces are more dangerous than others, not because of the practices, but rather the products. Where do explosions occur, and what practices exist to reduce such risk for equipment and workforce?

August 09, 2023 by David Peterson