There are many distributed fieldbus capabilities for valve manifolds that can save on network overhead and wiring. In this article, we will look at PLC…
There are many distributed fieldbus capabilities for valve manifolds that can save on network overhead and wiring. In this article, we will look at PLC programming of fieldbus manifolds highlighting Festo's CPX layout.
What if you could control the end position and the speed of a hydraulic actuator accurately with just a simple signal?…
What if you could control the end position and the speed of a hydraulic actuator accurately with just a simple signal? Some systems use simple open/close valves, but others require far more precision.
Modbus is a communication protocol stemming from the early days of Modicon PLCs, but is still common today. These two…
Modbus is a communication protocol stemming from the early days of Modicon PLCs, but is still common today. These two example implementations of Modbus transactions will get you started.
Industrial automation is only possible when the various system components can communicate with each other using physical…
Industrial automation is only possible when the various system components can communicate with each other using physical cable connections. In this article, learn about some of the most popular communication cables and connectors used in the industry.
This article reviews and compares some of the most prominent industrial Ethernet protocols.
This article reviews and compares some of the most prominent industrial Ethernet protocols.
In this article, learn the basics of Allen-Bradley Data Highway, the various network structures, and the relationship…
In this article, learn the basics of Allen-Bradley Data Highway, the various network structures, and the relationship between DH and Ethernet networks.
This article teaches the basics of gateways in industrial networks and PLC-to-PLC communication.
This article teaches the basics of gateways in industrial networks and PLC-to-PLC communication.
Learn the basics of connecting multiple PLCs to an HMI using various data types.
Learn the basics of connecting multiple PLCs to an HMI using various data types.
How are robots used in discrete versus process automation? Can the process industries utilize more robotic automation?
How are robots used in discrete versus process automation? Can the process industries utilize more robotic automation?
What is Power over Ethernet (PoE), how does it work, and how can industrial facilities benefit?
What is Power over Ethernet (PoE), how does it work, and how can industrial facilities benefit?
Due to the robust nature of process industries, there is a vast amount of data to read. Remote access can help parse data…
Due to the robust nature of process industries, there is a vast amount of data to read. Remote access can help parse data and has many additional benefits in these industries.
Learn the basics of remote terminal units (RTUs) and how they fit into a SCADA system.
Learn the basics of remote terminal units (RTUs) and how they fit into a SCADA system.
A useful but often overlooked instruction included in Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs for heating and cooling.
A useful but often overlooked instruction included in Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs for heating and cooling.
As digital transformation continues to rise, technologies such as 3D printing also skyrocket. What is the relationship…
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?
Efficient communication between machines is key in industrial automation. As both Ethernet and wireless network…
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?
An overview of the requirements, standards, applications, and main differences between Profinet and Profibus…
An overview of the requirements, standards, applications, and main differences between Profinet and Profibus communication protocol, connectors, and evolution from its original technology.
New control technology requires new interfaces. How can you implement fuel cell hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations…
New control technology requires new interfaces. How can you implement fuel cell hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations using an HMI?
What makes a factory network? There are three levels: device, control, and enterprise. What does each level consist of,…
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?
IIoT infrastructure is more susceptible to cyber-attacks than legacy infrastructure due to its cloud-based nature; this…
IIoT infrastructure is more susceptible to cyber-attacks than legacy infrastructure due to its cloud-based nature; this article covers attack vectors and best mitigating practices.
In this article, we cover some of the most common HMI failures and troubleshooting methods.
In this article, we cover some of the most common HMI failures and troubleshooting methods.