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What is a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)?

What is a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)?

Learn the basics of remote terminal units (RTUs) and how they fit into a SCADA system.


Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

A useful but often overlooked instruction included in Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs for heating and cooling.


Does 3D Printing Continue to Drive Digital Transformation?

Does 3D Printing Continue to Drive Digital Transformation?

As digital transformation continues to rise, technologies such as 3D printing also skyrocket. What is the relationship between these terms, and how can 3D printing help manufacturers and shops on their journey toward digital transformation?


Considerations When Integrating Cobots Into a Facility

Considerations When Integrating Cobots Into a Facility

What are some steps to consider before integrating a cobot, such as Universal Robots, into a facility?


How to Control Robotic Transfer Systems with Laser Distance Sensors

How to Control Robotic Transfer Systems with Laser Distance Sensors

Let’s take a closer look at retrofitting T-cart control with newer technology, such as using laser distance sensors versus limit switches.


Potential Applications and Challenges for Blockchain in Industrial Automation

Potential Applications and Challenges for Blockchain in Industrial Automation

Can industrial automation utilize blockchain's security integrated with IoT, ICS, and PAC?


Blockchain for Industrial Automation: Are We There Yet?

Blockchain for Industrial Automation: Are We There Yet?

Learn about how blockchain technology works, why it’s secure, and how to use it in industrial automation.


Introduction to Micro PLCs

Introduction to Micro PLCs

Micro PLCs are quite similar to their larger PLC brethren. What are the major differences, advantages, and disadvantages of micro PLCs?


Assessing Buzzwords: X “as a Service” (XaaS)

Assessing Buzzwords: X “as a Service” (XaaS)

XaaS, or the service model, has grown in the last several years. Pop-up terms like “SaaS,” “IaaS,” and “RaaS” are seen throughout the industry. But what do they mean, and do they provide dependable ROI?


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?


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 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.


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.


Cybersecurity in Centralized Vs. Decentralized Computing

Cybersecurity in Centralized Vs. Decentralized Computing

Centralized and decentralized computing have different cybersecurity needs. Let’s review the differences and some best practices.


Combining Machine Vision and Neural Networks in IIoT

Combining Machine Vision and Neural Networks in IIoT

As IIoT and Industry 4.0 continue to grow, so do its technologies. Machine vision is becoming more widely used in the industry, and IIoT pushes it to become more and advanced as time progresses.


Fuel Cell HIL Simulation and HMI Control Techniques

Fuel Cell HIL Simulation and HMI Control Techniques

New control technology requires new interfaces. How can you implement fuel cell hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations using an HMI?


Examples of Machine and Human-readable Data in Industrial Fluid Dynamics

Examples of Machine and Human-readable Data in Industrial Fluid Dynamics

How can engineers analyze human- and machine-readable data in several industrial applications, such as thermal management and HVAC systems?


The Three Levels of a Factory Network

The Three Levels of a Factory Network

What makes a factory network? There are three levels: device, control, and enterprise. What does each level consist of, and how is it used in a factory network?


Wired vs. Wireless Industrial Networks

Wired vs. Wireless Industrial Networks

Are wired networks really more secure than wireless? Let’s dive into some differences between these two industrial network types.


HVAC Engineering in AutoCAD and Revit

HVAC Engineering in AutoCAD and Revit

Trying to design industrial HVAC systems in AutoCAD? In this article, we explore AutoDesk’s flagship softwares AutoCAD and Revit, and their role in the HVAC designing industry.