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Info Byte: What Do ‘Normally Open’ and ‘Normally Closed’ Actually Mean?

Some terminology, like normally open and normally closed switch contacts, is common throughout industry, but can still be confusing, misleading, or even hazardous if not properly understood.

one day ago by David Peterson

Strain Gauges: Basic Operating Principles, Materials, and Properties

For being no more than a thin piece of metal, the strain gauge is a versatile measurement tool, from small switches to multi-ton machines. In this article, learn the operating principles and properties.

2 days ago by Harry Trietley

Troubleshooting PLCs and I/O Modules Using Tools and Instruments

When inputs or outputs stop working, the equipment fails to respond and money starts slipping away. Dive into the concept of troubleshooting I/O without ever opening the PLC software.

November 21, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS): What Is It and Why Would You Want It?

Traditionally, automation requires a sizable investment and integration risks. RaaS empowers manufacturers to let someone else adopt the risks in exchange for an hourly or monthly subscription rate.

November 02, 2023 by Misa Ilkhechi, Formic Technologies

Human Machine Interface (HMI): Controls and Data Types

An overview of HMI data types, input controls, output indicators, and message functions, the building blocks used to construct informative and appealing HMI applications.

October 04, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

PLC CPU Modes Explained: Run, Stop, and Program

A PLC can be placed in Run or Stop, or occasionally Program mode, usually through physical or virtual methods. But what do these modes mean, and when should they be used?

September 18, 2023 by David Peterson

PygWalker Data Visualization Library - Part 2, Advanced Charting Display

PygWalker is a useful tool to visualize data, with advanced features to make the data more constructive. This tutorial continues using the milling machine predictive maintenance dataset.

September 12, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

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

How to Design and Deploy a Web-Based HMI Project - Part 1

A walkthrough and discussion of a simple web-based HMI solution that could modernize your current HMI technology stack. The first step in the process involves sending data from a device to a server.

August 16, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

How to Design and Deploy a Web-Based HMI Project - Part 4

Refining and integrating a front-end HMI application to an API middle layer with real-time data display and historian capabilities for short-term data visualization.

August 09, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

How to Design and Deploy a Web-Based HMI Project - Part 3

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

August 09, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

How to Design and Deploy a Web-Based HMI Project - Part 2

The middle layer, or API layer of a custom-built HMI project involves a server that can submit or receive data to and from a device, either to provide the user interface or interact with the machine.

August 09, 2023 by Michael Levanduski

Creating a Low-Cost OpenPLC Pulse Timer Function Block HMI with an M5Stack Core

Triggering a machine by an external event often requires a pulse timer for OpenPLC Pulse Timer control. Here’s a brief tutorial on how an M5Stack Core can offer a simple, effective low-cost Arduino OpenPLC HMI solution.

August 07, 2023 by Dr. Don Wilcher

What You Need to Know: Soft Starters for Industrial Motors

Driving motors is one of the most fundamental automation tasks, but understanding and selecting the proper motor soft starter for your application may require more investigation than you thought.

August 01, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich

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

Potential Problems Arising from Misuse of Motor Phase Wiring

Using the right motor for the right task is critical - but what happens if the motor is connected to the wrong supply? It is never recommended, but important to quickly understand symptoms of incorrect wiring.

July 24, 2023 by Seth Price

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

Panel Builder’s Guide to Grounding and UL 508A Standards - Part 1

Ground wires reduce the risk of injury and damage from faulty equipment. Shops designing according to the UL 508A standard must understand how, when, and why to properly ground and bond circuits.

July 10, 2023 by David Peterson

Basic Structured Text Programming in Mitsubishi PLCs

Structured Text (ST) is one of the common IEC programming languages that can be used in programming PLCs. Learn how to use structured text to write executable programs for MELSEC’s FX series PLC.

July 06, 2023 by Bob Odhiambo

Mechanisms Used in Robotic Compliance Devices

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?

July 05, 2023 by Seth Price