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What Is a PLC? An Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers

What Is a PLC? An Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers

What is a PLC? This article will lay out a succinct definition of a programmable logic controller and explain its basic components.


Introduction to FANUC Robot Programming

Introduction to FANUC Robot Programming

FANUC has a wide variety of different product lines to accommodate nearly any automation environment, with its own flavor of structured text programming language.


Info Byte: Definition of Pressure and Flow in Fluid Systems

Info Byte: Definition of Pressure and Flow in Fluid Systems

Pressure and flow rate are terms used in all areas of hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Learn the definition and science of these terms, and the reason they are so important within industry.


Robots as a Service Explained

Robots as a Service Explained

Robots as a service (RaaS) can open the door to automation for small to mid-sized companies that are looking to automate a process without a large upfront capital investment.


SPC Pillar: Data Collection

SPC Pillar: Data Collection

Statistical process control (SPC) is meaningless without the proper collection and analysis of data. For some process parameters, this is a simple task. But not every part of a process is driven by simple, quantitative parameters.


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.


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.


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.


Connecting Multiple PLCs to an HMI

Connecting Multiple PLCs to an HMI

Learn the basics of connecting multiple PLCs to an HMI using various data types.


Common Control Valve Issues and Troubleshooting

Common Control Valve Issues and Troubleshooting

Learn about common issues control valves may have and mitigating techniques.


Process Noise Sources and How to Fix Them

Process Noise Sources and How to Fix Them

Noise signal sources occur primarily from radiofrequency interference (RFI), often in the form of impulse functions or arcing. How do you mitigate process noise from your control system?