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Modern Distributed Control System (DCS) Using the ABB Advant Controller

Modern Distributed Control System (DCS) Using the ABB Advant Controller

Many worldwide plants are still running the old Advant Controller 450 from ABB in their facility, with many plants using the latest System 800xA DCS interfaced with the existing AC450 controller.


PLC Discrete Inputs

PLC Discrete Inputs

Programmable Logic Control (PLC) systems are the core of most industrial control systems that drive modern manufacturing. In this Control Automation video, we discuss the wiring process for buttons, switches, and discrete sensors, applicable to virtually every PLC.


Introduction to Functional Safety (IEC 62061) and its Implementation

Introduction to Functional Safety (IEC 62061) and its Implementation

Functional safety is the safety of a system and is critical for industries such as medical devices, automotive, railways, and machinery. This article will focus on functional safety for machinery and the standards that help its implementation.


Introduction to Servers for Industrial Applications

Introduction to Servers for Industrial Applications

Servers are vital to the flow of information in and around organizations, acting as a hub for information transfer and storage. Learn about the role of servers in industry and the potential challenges that come with maintaining them.


An All-in-One Solar PV Testing Solution

An All-in-One Solar PV Testing Solution

Fluke, one of the most trusted electrical testing device manufacturers, is expanding its line of PV system testers with the SMFT-1000 kit with multifunction analyzer and I-V curve tracing.


News Nov 03, 2022 by Shawn Dietrich
 Omron PLCs - A Hardware History

Omron PLCs - A Hardware History

With the first fuzzy logic-based controllers on the market in 1983, learn how the Japanese-born automation company, Omron, adopted fuzzy logic as a basis for the design of its current PLCs.


Latest SCADA-based Software for Simplified Plant Automation

Latest SCADA-based Software for Simplified Plant Automation

Emerson releases Movicon.NExT 4.2 software to simplify automation system integration across platforms, vendors, and protocols. They have enhanced the security and made the interfaces more intuitive.


News Nov 02, 2022 by Seth Price
Proportional Gain and Proportional Band Explained

Proportional Gain and Proportional Band Explained

Learn about proportional gain and proportional band, two key proportional control concepts, to better understand the most popular control system method in industrial automation.


Edge-to-Cloud Industrial Data Hub from Rockwell Automation and Cognite

Edge-to-Cloud Industrial Data Hub from Rockwell Automation and Cognite

Rockwell and Cognite have partnered to develop a more efficient method for data scaling and plant efficiency using the cloud. They also have created a new way for customers to work more efficiently via cloud–based software.


News Nov 01, 2022 by Damond Goodwin
Differences Between a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)

Differences Between a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)

Despite the many overlaps, PLCs and RTUs are two different devices, each with specific suitable applications.


Control Automation Update: New Online Calculator Tools

Control Automation Update: New Online Calculator Tools

Most engineers are not intimidated by simple mathematics, but when designing mission-critical systems, it’s important to have easy access to reliable tools and calculators. Introducing our first new set of tools designed for control engineers.


News Oct 25, 2022 by David Peterson
Control Automation Online Textbook: The Best Just Got Better!

Control Automation Online Textbook: The Best Just Got Better!

Control Automation is proud to announce updates to several chapters of our popular online textbook. Check out the improvements in the PLC, Feedback Control, and Power Generation sections.


News Oct 23, 2022 by David Peterson
Git Version Control - Back Up Automation Code Seamlessly

Git Version Control - Back Up Automation Code Seamlessly

Copia reduces the strain of backing up automation code on the factory floor with their latest software release DeviceLink. This automated backup software makes use of the Git workflow and backup running code automatically.


News Oct 18, 2022 by Shawn Dietrich
Feedback for Fluid Cylinders: Bang Bang Control

Feedback for Fluid Cylinders: Bang Bang Control

Tracking the position of a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder is often accomplished at a basic precision level, detecting only end stop limits with discrete digital values… But what methods accomplish this?


CAN-to-fiber Converters for Long-distance Sensor Monitoring

CAN-to-fiber Converters for Long-distance Sensor Monitoring

Moxa releases a CAN bus to fiber optic converter for industrial automation and automotive applications, giving the CAN bus protocol a speed and distance boost.


News Oct 17, 2022 by Shawn Dietrich
Understanding NPN vs PNP for Sensors and Devices

Understanding NPN vs PNP for Sensors and Devices

You are bound to encounter two terms associated with sensors and some loads: ‘NPN’ and ‘PNP’. You must understand the relationship between the field device and the control module in order to choose and install components properly when needed.


Managing Multi-user PLC Programming: Git Version Control

Managing Multi-user PLC Programming: Git Version Control

PLC and other automation project software can be easier and more efficient to update and maintain thanks to the introduction of Git control, already a staple for typical programming of large-scale projects.


Driving Motors Faster: Rockwell’s New PowerFlex 6000T VFD

Driving Motors Faster: Rockwell’s New PowerFlex 6000T VFD

Increasing motor speed is critical in many situations, but it also poses serious risks in both electrical and mechanical performance if not driven properly. Enter Rockwell Automation’s new PowerFlex 6000T.


News Oct 13, 2022 by David Peterson
Introduction to Safety Light Curtains: Operation and Installation 

Introduction to Safety Light Curtains: Operation and Installation 

Light curtains serve as an invisible barrier, keeping workers out of harm's way and protecting machinery from damage. Learn about safety curtains, how they are installed, and their programmable functions.


Siemens’ 120 V Solid-state Circuit Breaker Now UL Listed

Siemens’ 120 V Solid-state Circuit Breaker Now UL Listed

Siemens breaks new ground by having a solid-state circuit breaker UL listed for residential, commercial, and light industrial use.


News Oct 12, 2022 by Shawn Dietrich