Latest Utilities Technical Articles

Categories

Finding and Calibrating Linear Regression in LabVIEW

Finding and Calibrating Linear Regression in LabVIEW

Analog signals like temperature create linear data. Let’s take a look at how to find the best-fit line, use the R^2 value, and calibrate the data in LabVIEW.


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.


IIoT Cyber Attack Vectors and Best Mitigating Practices

IIoT Cyber Attack Vectors and Best Mitigating Practices

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.


HMI Troubleshooting and Maintenance

HMI Troubleshooting and Maintenance

In this article, we cover some of the most common HMI failures and troubleshooting methods.


Machine-readable vs. Human-readable Data

Machine-readable vs. Human-readable Data

Industrial manufacturers use two main data types—machine-readable and human-readable—to analyze for maintenance, monitoring, or other applications.


Future-proofing and Future Trends in IoT and IIoT

Future-proofing and Future Trends in IoT and IIoT

Dive into the importance of future-proofing IoT technologies, and future trends to keep in mind.


LabVIEW Architecture: The State Machine

LabVIEW Architecture: The State Machine

In this article, we show how to use a LabVIEW VI to program a state machine for industrial instrumentation systems.


Creating and Calling LabVIEW Sub-VIs

Creating and Calling LabVIEW Sub-VIs

When programming large virtual instruments (VIs) in LabVIEW, it may be useful to create and call a sub-VI to enhance readability and delegation.


The Difference Between HMI and SCADA and How They Work Together

The Difference Between HMI and SCADA and How They Work Together

Learn the differences and similarities between human-machine interface (HMI) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and how they work together.


Designing a LabVIEW Human Machine Interface (HMI) for Increased Safety and Readability

Designing a LabVIEW Human Machine Interface (HMI) for Increased Safety and Readability

LabVIEW Virtual Instruments (VIs) can simulate tools like multimeters, which are useful for measuring in control systems. Read this article to learn more about designing around possible safety and readability blockers.


The Difference Between Office Networks and Industrial Networks

The Difference Between Office Networks and Industrial Networks

Although there are many similarities, there are also vast differences between office networks and industrial networks. Find out what those differences are in this article.


How MQTT is Used for Industrial Automation

How MQTT is Used for Industrial Automation

Learn about the background and use of message queue telemetry transport (MQTT) in the industrial automation industry.


CSA vs. UL Certifications

CSA vs. UL Certifications

Now that we’ve learned the basics of common certifications like CSA and UL, let’s figure out their similarities and differences.


Alternate Uses for Differential Pressure Measurements

Alternate Uses for Differential Pressure Measurements

Besides measuring pressure to compare different parts of a process, differential pressure transmitters can also measure fluid level, volume, and flow.


Deep Dive Into Fault Tree Analysis

Deep Dive Into Fault Tree Analysis

After learning about the basic events and symbols found within a fault tree, let’s dive through a fault tree analysis (FTA) example, industries that use it, and some software.


Introduction to Fault Tree Analysis

Introduction to Fault Tree Analysis

Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) can be used in industrial systems to find faults, damages, and predictive maintenance. Learn about FTA's basics.


Using Serial Communications in LabVIEW

Using Serial Communications in LabVIEW

LabVIEW offers the ability to communicate with most serial-based instruments and devices, including Arduino and Raspberry Pi.


Overcurrent Protection: Motor Starter Trip Classes for Industrial Motors

Overcurrent Protection: Motor Starter Trip Classes for Industrial Motors

Trip classes protect motors from overcurrent, but when will an overload relay trip, why, and what trip class should you use?


Qualitative vs. Quantitative Risk Assessment

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Risk Assessment

Industrial risk assessments can be qualitative or quantitative; discover which RA best suits your facility’s needs and why.


Understanding Analog Versus Digital Signals in Control Systems

Understanding Analog Versus Digital Signals in Control Systems

Start to understand the difference between analog and digital communications, and read a few examples of how analog, digital, and discrete signals can be used in a control system.