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Alternative Devices for Measuring Fluid Volume

Alternative Devices for Measuring Fluid Volume

Flow totalizers, flow sensors, and flow meters are popular devices for measuring flow. However, this article discusses alternative methods, such as ultrasonic level detection and resistive tape.


Introduction to Smart Sensors

Introduction to Smart Sensors

Smart sensors differ from traditional sensors in that they offer benefits such as self-diagnostics, simplified wiring and communication, and more efficient remote monitoring.


How to Utilize Real-time Production Data and Achieve Better Manufacturing Results

How to Utilize Real-time Production Data and Achieve Better Manufacturing Results

Struggling to find the best ways to utilize real-time production data? This article reviews six steps to achieve better manufacturing results.


Developing Totalizer Function (Flow Totalizer) on a PLC

Developing Totalizer Function (Flow Totalizer) on a PLC

Converting from flow rate measurements into total flow over a period of time requires the use of a flow totalizer. Flow totalizing can be done with a standalone device or with a PLC mathematical algorithm.


Introduction to Photoelectric Sensors

Introduction to Photoelectric Sensors

Sensing objects is a tricky business because of the many variables in light, surface texture, distance, color, and other factors. Learn how a photo sensor works!


Deep Dive Into the Data Science Lifecycle

Deep Dive Into the Data Science Lifecycle

Learn the definition and basic steps of the data science life cycle, particularly the popular CRISP-DM model.


Data Lake vs. Big Data for Industrial Applications

Data Lake vs. Big Data for Industrial Applications

This article teaches the definitions of big data and data lake, how to use them together, and industrial applications.


A Software Approach to Calculating Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) and Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF)

A Software Approach to Calculating Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) and Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF)

MTTR and MTBF are metrics utilized to determine equipment downtime. How do you calculate these metrics, and how can a control engineer use them for machine reliability?


Combining Two Deep Learning Models

Combining Two Deep Learning Models

Combining two deep learning models, otherwise known as ensemble learning, has numerous techniques. Let’s review the current techniques and their advantages and disadvantages.


Deep Learning vs. Machine Learning

Deep Learning vs. Machine Learning

Deep learning is a subset of machine learning, which is a subset of artificial intelligence. So, what makes deep learning different from machine learning?


Types of Process Manufacturing Equipment

Types of Process Manufacturing Equipment

During process manufacturing, raw materials are mixed together to create a product. This process includes many stages, and thus, copious types of equipment.


The Relationship Between Predictive Maintenance and Digital Transformation

The Relationship Between Predictive Maintenance and Digital Transformation

This article discusses some trends in digital transformation, specifically matching real-world data with resources and gaining control in an ever-changing world.


What is a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)?

What is a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)?

Learn the basics of remote terminal units (RTUs) and how they fit into a SCADA system.


Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

A useful but often overlooked instruction included in Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs for heating and cooling.


Solenoids vs. Linear Actuators for Industrial Automation

Solenoids vs. Linear Actuators for Industrial Automation

Solenoids and linear actuators provide similar movements in industrial applications. What are the main similarities and differences, and how are they each used?


Designing and Planning Existing Control System Upgrades

Designing and Planning Existing Control System Upgrades

After understanding how to select the right control system, learn how to design and plan control system retrofits.


Calculating the Speed of a Conveyor System

Calculating the Speed of a Conveyor System

Different conveyance systems have different ways to calculate speed. Let’s dive into these systems, their speed, and some determining factors.


Is It Time to Upgrade Your Control System?

Is It Time to Upgrade Your Control System?

This article discusses how to successfully research and replace control systems and its components.


Potential Applications and Challenges for Blockchain in Industrial Automation

Potential Applications and Challenges for Blockchain in Industrial Automation

Can industrial automation utilize blockchain's security integrated with IoT, ICS, and PAC?


Introduction to Conveyor Belt Systems

Introduction to Conveyor Belt Systems

Who created the first conveyor system, what are some common types of conveyor systems used in industrial automation, and what are the types of controls involved?