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STEP RIGHT UP, Get Your IP Address Here! Understanding BOOTP vs. DHCP

When IT and OT converge on the shop floor, it’s important to understand how and when to let a computer control the assignment of network addresses, or when you would rather keep it under control.

November 16, 2023 by David Peterson

Create Your Own IIoT Tech Stack Project | Part 7: Integrating Data With Database

As we approach the conclusion of this IIoT project, we’ll explore the integration of the Mosquitto MQTT broker, Node-RED, and InfluxDB, leaving only the data dashboard setup for the final step.

October 31, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

Create Your Own IIoT Tech Stack Project | Part 6: Node-RED Development

This article will explore the setup of Node-RED, the glue that will serve to connect all of the individual components of the solution that we have created up to this point.

October 26, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

Create Your Own IIoT Tech Stack Project | Part 5: Database Setup

Now that our IIoT project has verified the transmission of an MQTT data payload packet, this next article will explore the setup of an InfluxDB database to store the incoming sensor data.

October 24, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

Create Your Own IIoT Tech Stack Project | Part 4: Connecting MQTT Client to Broker

Continuing the real-world IIoT project, learn how to begin integrating the Raspberry Pi with the Mosquitto Broker and understand Docker networks and port binding.

October 19, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

Pulse Frequency Modulation (PFM): It’s Not PWM, But Related

Every so often, a new data format comes along, and we first consider that it might simply be a mistake in typing. Pulse Frequency Modulation (PFM) is not brand new, but still unknown to many engineers.

October 12, 2023 by David Peterson

Create Your Own IIoT Tech Stack Project | Part 1: MQTT Client Setup

Learn to develop an actual IoT solution end to end, from the initial data collection to web-based visualization and analytics. This first article in the series will explore the setup of the edge device.

October 11, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

Fundamentals of Industrial Networking: Basic Terms and Concepts

This article includes a list of some common definitions for industrial networking concepts, described in simplified terms to provide a baseline understanding of the concepts.

October 10, 2023 by David Peterson

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

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

Optimizing Single-Run PLC Bits and Tasks for Startup Processes

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are designed as an endlessly-looping program, examining all lines of code as rapidly as possible. Following are a few critical tips for when programmers only need to run a series of single operations at startup.

August 21, 2023 by David Peterson

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

Examples of Analog Signals in Control Systems

Many articles address the wiring and implementation of analog control signals, but where are they used, and what might make them a better (or perhaps worse) decision than digital input/output devices?

July 25, 2023 by Gunner Scott

Industrial Wireless Technology: Communication and Programming

Wireless technology is typically slower to adoption for industrial automation, but what wireless advancements are shaping the current and future landscape of the automated factory floor?

July 12, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

Virtual LAN for IT/OT Nodes in Industrial Control Systems

Virtual networks can connect or isolate various local control networks through configuration of a managed switch. Why would we use VLANs, and how can you segment a network switch to create a VLAN?

July 11, 2023 by Munir Ahmad

Ignition SCADA Software: What are Tags and How are They Used?

An introduction to the various tag types used within one of the leading supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) software powering IIoT, HMI, and I4.0 applications: Ignition by Inductive Automation.

June 14, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

Methods and Algorithms in Error Checking for Serial Communications

Errors in communications often manifest as a result of electrical noise interrupting the data during the transmission process, leading to various methods for determining whether received data has been damaged.

June 10, 2023 by Damond Goodwin

Connectors Used in Industrial and Robotic Cable Termination

Industrial and robotics cabling requires specialized termination strategies. This article introduces connectors involved in automation applications for cable-to-cable or cable-to-device termination.

May 30, 2023 by Simon Mugo

Developing Standardized Practices for PLC Programming

Any kind of computer programming can be challenging to determine what aspects are truly unique versus what aspects should be standardized across projects and platforms to streamline future development.

May 25, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

Understanding Wire Color Codes for Industrial Electrical Applications

Designing, installing, and maintaining control systems involves a lot of wires. Each wire has a purpose, often indicated by the color of the insulation. But what are the common colors, and what do they mean?

May 15, 2023 by Seth Price