Latest PCB Assembly Technical Articles

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

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

Compliance and compensator devices are used in processes where variation and uncertainty are prevalent. What sorts of…

Compliance and compensator devices are used in processes where variation and uncertainty are prevalent. What sorts of compliance devices are used, and what distinct advantages are held by each?

Force compensators and force compliance end effectors can expand the capabilities of traditional robotics to reach into…

Force compensators and force compliance end effectors can expand the capabilities of traditional robotics to reach into difficult processes, ranging from grinding and alignment to precision measurement.

Industrial robots are becoming safer and more economical by utilizing safety signals over Ethernet networks via CIP…

Industrial robots are becoming safer and more economical by utilizing safety signals over Ethernet networks via CIP safety technology.

This article features an in-depth discussion of the various options for buttons and switches, including function, styles,…

This article features an in-depth discussion of the various options for buttons and switches, including function, styles, shapes, and illumination options for all kinds of control panel inputs.

We usually think of joysticks in terms of video game controllers, but they exist in all kinds of industrial systems:…

We usually think of joysticks in terms of video game controllers, but they exist in all kinds of industrial systems: heavy equipment, overhead cranes, and even some robotic controls. But how do they work?

Radiation, despite its reputation in pop culture as a harmful emission resulting from a natural disaster, is a property…

Radiation, despite its reputation in pop culture as a harmful emission resulting from a natural disaster, is a property of many materials and processes and must be carefully monitored for quality and safety.

Vibration sensors measure the mechanical vibration of an object, making it possible to monitor machines for early signs…

Vibration sensors measure the mechanical vibration of an object, making it possible to monitor machines for early signs of failure to prevent costly and dangerous breakdowns.

AutomationDirect’s Productivity line of PLCs is known for cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Learn how to build and…

AutomationDirect’s Productivity line of PLCs is known for cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Learn how to build and download a simple program using discrete input and output ladder commands.

Engineering processes like robotics, feedback control, and security systems rely on position and distance sensors to…

Engineering processes like robotics, feedback control, and security systems rely on position and distance sensors to provide real-time information that enables machines to operate accurately and safely.

Optical sensors are one of the most popular sensor types in industrial automation. This article covers optical sensor…

Optical sensors are one of the most popular sensor types in industrial automation. This article covers optical sensor basics and commonly used types, including fiber optic, photoelectric, and optical encoders.

Industrial sensors can be found in nearly every modern industrial process, regardless of complexity. Learn the history,…

Industrial sensors can be found in nearly every modern industrial process, regardless of complexity. Learn the history, evolution, and variety of sensors that make manufacturing the modern marvel we see today.

Machine safety design can be a daunting task with all the different safety devices on the market today. Choosing the…

Machine safety design can be a daunting task with all the different safety devices on the market today. Choosing the correct device for your design can be made easier by understanding when to use the proper device.

We are taught that parallel circuits maintain equal voltage across all branch resistors, equally sharing the source…

We are taught that parallel circuits maintain equal voltage across all branch resistors, equally sharing the source voltage. But reality is often far from ideal, and individual devices certainly impact the rest of the circuit.

Industrial network switches connect automation equipment, controllers, and other such devices. Learn about unmanaged,…

Industrial network switches connect automation equipment, controllers, and other such devices. Learn about unmanaged, managed, and PoE enabled switches, as well as the differences between switches, routers, and hubs.

Previously, we described how to use the new Arduino PLC IDE to control discrete devices. This tutorial will describe how…

Previously, we described how to use the new Arduino PLC IDE to control discrete devices. This tutorial will describe how to connect various peripheral equipment (VFD and robot) using analog inputs and outputs.

Linear and switch-mode power supplies provide direct current to power control components and electrical devices. Learn…

Linear and switch-mode power supplies provide direct current to power control components and electrical devices. Learn about the differences between the two power supplies and which one is best for your control system.

Many control product manufacturers offer these downloadable ‘EDS files’ for peripheral equipment, but what exactly is…

Many control product manufacturers offer these downloadable ‘EDS files’ for peripheral equipment, but what exactly is an EDS, and how can they aid in the development of a project?

Following the release of the official Arduino PLC IDE, this tutorial will introduce programming and understanding of the…

Following the release of the official Arduino PLC IDE, this tutorial will introduce programming and understanding of the function blocks common to all IEC 61131 languages, starting with bit commands, timers, and counters.