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How To: Using Set/Reset Instructions in Mitsubishi’s MELSEC PLCs

How To: Using Set/Reset Instructions in Mitsubishi’s MELSEC PLCs

Setting and resetting a PLC output is essential in establishing a holding circuit for a transducer. Learn how to use set/reset instructions in MELSOFT series GX Works2 to latch and release an output.


Closing the Loop: Feedback, Feedforward, and Adaptive Control

Closing the Loop: Feedback, Feedforward, and Adaptive Control

Process automation relies on precise control systems to operate production equipment for everything from lumber to pastries. Using control algorithms produces stable, accurate, and often delicious results.


Understanding PLC Tags: Controller Scope vs. Program Scope

Understanding PLC Tags: Controller Scope vs. Program Scope

Is it best to ‘controller scope’ or ‘program scope’ your tags? This is the question asked by many new PLC programmers, and it often comes down to personal preference.


Engineering Editorial Perspective: 2023 Top Trends in Automation

Engineering Editorial Perspective: 2023 Top Trends in Automation

What are some of the most recent developments making waves in the world of robotics and automation? Learn about a few trends with some editorial thoughts about the future of the technology for end users.


News May 31, 2023 by David Peterson
Connectors Used in Industrial and Robotic Cable Termination

Connectors Used in Industrial and Robotic Cable Termination

Industrial and robotics cabling requires specialized termination strategies. This article introduces connectors involved in automation applications for cable-to-cable or cable-to-device termination.


New OnLogic Edge Server Promises to Convert Raw Data into Real Value

New OnLogic Edge Server Promises to Convert Raw Data into Real Value

OnLogic has recently released a new edge server built on Intel’s 13th-gen i-series processors, ready to harness the processing power of technology for increased power and efficiency on the shop floor.


News May 30, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Highlights and Photos from Automate 2023

Highlights and Photos from Automate 2023

Join Control Automation for a review of the show highlights and a special feature of some exciting booths visited on the last and final day of the Automate trade show. Excited for the next year of innovation!


News May 28, 2023 by David Peterson
Field Input and Output Blocks From Allen-Bradley

Field Input and Output Blocks From Allen-Bradley

Rockwell Automation has released an IO-Link master with configurable ports designed for harsh, on-machine environments with the ability to connect both discrete and IO-Link field devices.


News May 26, 2023 by Shawn Dietrich
Developing Standardized Practices for PLC Programming

Developing Standardized Practices for PLC Programming

Any kind of computer programming can be challenging to determine what aspects are truly unique versus what aspects should be standardized across projects and platforms to streamline future development.


Covering all the Latest Control Technology: Automate 2023

Covering all the Latest Control Technology: Automate 2023

The second day of Automate 2023 in Detroit was a huge success! The Control Automation engineering and sales team met with a number of companies to discuss and explore the exciting, innovative demonstrations.


News May 25, 2023 by David Peterson
Automate 2023: First Glimpse From the Show

Automate 2023: First Glimpse From the Show

It’s the first two days of Automate 2023, and the Control Automation team hit the streets to learn about the latest and greatest technology rocking the world of robotics and industrial automation!


News May 24, 2023 by David Peterson
Back to the Basics: Understanding Industrial Buttons and Switches

Back to the Basics: Understanding Industrial Buttons and Switches

This article features an in-depth discussion of the various options for buttons and switches, including function, styles, shapes, and illumination options for all kinds of control panel inputs.


Joystick Controls: How Do You Use Them For Automated Systems?

Joystick Controls: How Do You Use Them For Automated Systems?

We usually think of joysticks in terms of video game controllers, but they exist in all kinds of industrial systems: heavy equipment, overhead cranes, and even some robotic controls. But how do they work?


Building a Temperature Controller Simulator Using OpenPLC and an Arduino

Building a Temperature Controller Simulator Using OpenPLC and an Arduino

Variable control allows external conditions, like temperature, to be monitored so the controller can activate devices to heat or cool the system as needed. Simulate a temp controller with low-cost components!


Understanding Wire Color Codes for Industrial Electrical Applications

Understanding Wire Color Codes for Industrial Electrical Applications

Designing, installing, and maintaining control systems involves a lot of wires. Each wire has a purpose, often indicated by the color of the insulation. But what are the common colors, and what do they mean?


Introduction to Mitsubishi PLC - FX Series and MELSOFT GX Developer

Introduction to Mitsubishi PLC - FX Series and MELSOFT GX Developer

Mitsubishi's FX series PLC is one of MELSOFT GX Developer’s most popular automation solutions for small and medium-scale applications. Learn how to use GX Developer software to program the FX series PLC.


How To: Simple Programming with AutomationDirect Productivity PLCs

How To: Simple Programming with AutomationDirect Productivity PLCs

AutomationDirect’s Productivity line of PLCs is known for cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Learn how to build and download a simple program using discrete input and output ladder commands.


Rockwell Automation Partners with The Water Council to Champion Water Stewardship

Rockwell Automation Partners with The Water Council to Champion Water Stewardship

Rockwell Automation announced its partnership with The Water Council to support the advancement of positive water stewardship for corporations around the globe.


News Apr 28, 2023 by Stephanie Leonida
Compact Tower IPC Fit for Upright In-Cabinet Requirements Across Industries

Compact Tower IPC Fit for Upright In-Cabinet Requirements Across Industries

Advantech has designed its latest control console, the IPC-320 compact tower, with IoT capabilities in mind, giving end users greater functionality in a small, space-saving design.


News Apr 16, 2023 by Damond Goodwin
Connectivity for Edge Solutions With Docker-based Software Updates

Connectivity for Edge Solutions With Docker-based Software Updates

Softing Industrial announced the release of its latest Docker-based software application updates and edge products with added functionalities, aiming to enhance efficiency and usability of its solutions.


News Apr 06, 2023 by Stephanie Leonida