Latest Networking Technical Articles

Introduction to Allen-Bradley PowerFlex Drives with Ethernet I/P

An overview of the Allen-Bradley PowerFlex variable frequency drive with Ethernet I/P protocol.

About 7 hours ago by Dennis Lynch

What is Six Sigma and How is it Used in Manufacturing?

Six Sigma can be used to effectively manufacture highly standardized products. This article covers Six Sigma's philosophy, implementation, and certifications while looking at why it works for control systems engineers.

December 28, 2020 by Anish Devasia

Key Factors of Successful Innovation Centers in Manufacturing

This article will look at key factors in successful innovation centers and how they affect manufacturing. What resources are opening the door for the future of manufacturing?

December 18, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

A Look Into Innovation Centers in Manufacturing

What causes innovation in manufacturing? This article will take a look at the root of innovation and where it's happening.

December 12, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

Wearable Technology in Industrial Manufacturing

As electronics become smaller and more energy-efficient, wearables are getting more attention in manufacturing. Learn about some of the research involved in developing these wearables.

December 02, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

The Future of Manufacturing

What is the future of manufacturing dependent on? Who plays a role in seeing where/how manufacturing will grow?

November 22, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

What is the BACnet Protocol?

Building Automation and Control Network (BACnet) is commonly used in building automation systems. Learn how BACnet works and the different network technologies used to set up the system.

November 02, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Introduction to EtherCAT

Learn about EtherCAT and some important considerations to make when choosing options for communication and networking.

October 27, 2020 by Carlos Aguilar

How to Reduce Electrical Noise on Sensors and Control Systems

Electrical noise is a common problem inside industrial facilities. The following will explain a few simple strategies for reducing this noise.

September 04, 2020 by David Peterson

NIST Finds Patterns in Cyber Security Behavior Related to Industrial Manufacturing

The latest report from NIST and other government organizations found that tracking behavior may be a new way to track potential security threats.

August 28, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

Comparison of Modbus Over TCP/IP and PROFINET

Two of the most common protocols are Modbus and Profinet. They are similar in many ways, but there are some crucial differences.

August 26, 2020 by David Peterson

Industrial Networking Terms Explained

This article includes a list of some common terms for industrial devices, and as with all computer-related terms, the descriptions are greatly simplified.

August 16, 2020 by David Peterson

A History of Industrial Communication Systems

Take a trip down memory lane and go through the different communication systems used throughout the years and learn about the factors that led to where we are today.

June 22, 2020 by David Peterson

What’s the Difference Between DeviceNet and ControlNet?

Ethernet is everywhere. It’s simple and easy to use, so why are DeviceNet and ControlNet still here?

June 06, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

SCADA System Usage in the Daily Life of an Engineer

Learn how one engineer's real-world experience showed him the importance and power of SCADA systems for control automation.

May 31, 2020 by Anish Devasia

An Introduction to Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

Learn about the supervisory control and data acquisition system used to program PLCs and PIDs. See where, how, and why SCADA systems are so popular.

May 29, 2020 by Anish Devasia

Introduction to Shielding and Shielded Cables

Within an industrial setting, noise from EMI can create huge problems. For large load devices using many amps of current, small electrical noise may not be too critical. But when it comes to low-voltage and low-current communication wires, just a small amount of voltage finding its way onto a wire can corrupt data transmissions. Shielded cables can help to protect against that problem.