Latest Sensors Technical Articles

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The Difference Between Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Soft Starters

The following will examine how to reduce the wear on motors during startup and compare soft starters and variable frequency drives (VFDs). 

4 days ago by Jeff Kerns

Insulation Testing with Resistance Meters

Electrical resistance can be intentionally extremely high to insulate and stop current between conductors. Learn about measuring insulation using a mega-ohmmeter.

October 15, 2020 by David Peterson

Measurement Tools for Mechanical Maintenance

This article explores what tools can be used to predict and prevent costly mechanical breakdown events occurring from heat, vibration, or humidity.

October 13, 2020 by David Peterson

Industrial Motor Health Tips and IIoT Solutions

Learn about tips and solutions to promote long-lasting electric motor health.

October 11, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

How to Regulate Pressure in Fluid Systems

Regulating the pressure in a fluid system is the purpose of the appropriately-named pressure regulator. In this article, learn more about pressure regulators.

October 09, 2020 by David Peterson

Robotics and Automation Push Further Into Manufacturing

Industry leaders partner to bring innovation and push automation even further into the world of manufacturing, but how are they achieving this?

October 07, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

Common Sources of Failures in Mechanical Systems

What causes mechanical failure? Learn about three major sources of failure points in any mechanical assembly and a few tips to minimize failure.

October 03, 2020 by David Peterson

Understanding Computerized Maintenance Management Systems

A computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) is a software system that manages an entire company’s maintenance activities. It supports the maintenance personnel by helping to develop a database relevant to maintenance activities.

September 27, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Using Sensors with Open Collector Outputs

This article discusses how to use sensors with open collector outputs and learning some of the module connections involved.

September 25, 2020 by David Peterson

How Object Detection Works in Machine Vision Applications

The following will introduce how machine vision and object recognition works and how developers are working on making it easier to integrate for more extensive market adoption. 

September 22, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

Power Supply Troubleshooting and Testing

This article discusses the proper steps for testing the supply for proper function.

September 21, 2020 by David Peterson

The Purpose of NPN Sensors in Control Systems

A typical control system uses PNP sensors and tends to be easier to visualize. For opposite polarity systems, the NPN sensor is the only compatible sensor type. Learn more about NPN sensors, including characteristics and uses.

September 19, 2020 by David Peterson

Understanding Different IP Enclosure Ratings

This article will provide an overview of the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, IEC standard 60529, sometimes referred to as International Protection code.

September 16, 2020 by Dennis Lynch

Methods for Power Supply Troubleshooting

Whether using an industrial DIN-rail power supply or a linear supply for an audio application, these devices have the potential to fail. Although there can be several reasons, there are a few simple (and some not-so-simple) methods of testing a power supply for proper functionality.

September 14, 2020 by David Peterson

How to Perform a Factory Acceptance Test

Learn about factory acceptance tests (FATs), including how the tests are created, where they are performed, and the responsibilities for both the buyer and manufacturer of the equipment.

September 13, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Orifice Plate Sizing for Flow Measurements

Learn about orifice plates and specifically how to size orifice plates for flow measurements and the different flow rates associated with them.

September 11, 2020 by David Peterson

The Evolution of Autonomous Mobile Robots

What are autonomous mobile robots and how did they come to be a crucial part of the industrial manufacturing industry?

September 09, 2020 by Damond Goodwin

An Overview of Pilot Valves

What are pilot valves and how do they work? This article dives into some of the different types and uses for these components.

September 07, 2020 by David Peterson

Applications of Data Structures and Data Types

This article discusses structure data types, structure tags, and various applications of user-defined structures.

September 05, 2020 by David Peterson

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