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The Origin Story of the PLC

The Origin Story of the PLC

In the late 1960s, a revolution in manufacturing became a reality when the first Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) was developed. We’ll examine the early history of the PLC - not just the technology, but also the inspiration of the inventors as well.


ABB Robot Example Programming Tutorial

ABB Robot Example Programming Tutorial

ABB robots are programmed using the RAPID language. Investigate an example of the code and structure elements in this part 2 of the robotics programming article series.


Comparing Industrial Ethernet Protocols

Comparing Industrial Ethernet Protocols

This article reviews and compares some of the most prominent industrial Ethernet protocols.


Sinking vs. Sourcing for Control System Modules - Explained

Sinking vs. Sourcing for Control System Modules - Explained

Digital control systems are particular about the direction of current flow from sensors and input devices. The terms sourcing and sinking (often abbreviated source and sink) are among the more confusing ratings found on I/O module datasheets. Part 1 of a 3-part series.


Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software

Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software

In this article, learn about the key features and benefits of some of the most popular PLM applications in the market.


Info Byte: What’s the Reason Behind Relay Terminal Numbering?

Info Byte: What’s the Reason Behind Relay Terminal Numbering?

Any industrial electrician can instantly recognize a relay, but when it comes to wiring, why are the terminals numbered in such apparently random order?


Introduction to ABB Robot Programming Language

Introduction to ABB Robot Programming Language

ABB robots are programmed using the RAPID language. Learn the basic structures and definitions of the robot catalog and the language in part 1 of this 2-part series.


Calibrating Digital Twins With Operational Data Optimizes Efficiency

Calibrating Digital Twins With Operational Data Optimizes Efficiency

Data feedback loops create a closed-loop digital twin (CLDT) driving increased operational efficiency and improved design iteration progress.


What is Statistical Process Control (SPC)?

What is Statistical Process Control (SPC)?

Learn how statistical process control (SPC) can provide a foundation for decisions used to reduce waste and increase efficiency in the manufacturing process.


Introduction to Allen-Bradley Data Highway (DH) Networks

Introduction to Allen-Bradley Data Highway (DH) Networks

In this article, learn the basics of Allen-Bradley Data Highway, the various network structures, and the relationship between DH and Ethernet networks.


Introduction to Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

Introduction to Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

Learn the definition of PLM and the stages of a product's lifecycle from initial concept design to final phaseout.


Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

Lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) Devices for Industrial Safety

One of the most visible elements of industrial safety is the use of lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) devices, familiar to those with experience. But, if you are new to the workforce, a brief introduction may be helpful.


What Do “Smart” Technologies Actually Include?

What Do “Smart” Technologies Actually Include?

Technology advancements have provided us with terms that can seem foreign and confusing. Learn the definition of some of the important concepts that provide better efficiency for industrial manufacturing systems.


An Overview of Laser Sensing

An Overview of Laser Sensing

What is laser sensing, how does it work, and what types of laser sensors exist?


Introduction to Industrial Network Gateways

Introduction to Industrial Network Gateways

This article teaches the basics of gateways in industrial networks and PLC-to-PLC communication.


Using 3D Inspection to Improve Part Quality Control and Production Yields

Using 3D Inspection to Improve Part Quality Control and Production Yields

Learn about quality control in manufacturing using 3D Inspection, an essential method to achieve quality targets.


Boolean Logic for Ladder Diagrams

Boolean Logic for Ladder Diagrams

Ladder diagrams, or ladder logic, is a popular programming language used for PLCs. Programmers can utilize boolean logic as a base for their ladder diagrams. Learn the basics and structures for boolean logic.


An Overview of AVEVA Solutions

An Overview of AVEVA Solutions

AVEVA Solutions, formerly Wonderware, is a popular service that offers HMI, SCADA, and MES. How is each solution used in industrial automation?


Deep Learning Algorithms for Vision Systems

Deep Learning Algorithms for Vision Systems

Which deep learning neural networks are best suited for industrial vision systems and why?


An Overview of Power Over Ethernet (PoE) and Its Use in Industrial Applications

An Overview of Power Over Ethernet (PoE) and Its Use in Industrial Applications

What is Power over Ethernet (PoE), how does it work, and how can industrial facilities benefit?