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Introduction to Arduino: History, Hardware, and Software

Introduction to Arduino: History, Hardware, and Software

Arduino’s open-source, microcontroller-based platform has revolutionized academic and hobbyist spaces, providing a low cost, accessible introduction to engineering and programming.


Banner Releases Compact, Programmable IO-Link Master with Ethernet

Banner Releases Compact, Programmable IO-Link Master with Ethernet

Banner's new DXMR90-4K IO-Link Master is a self-contained programmable controller, compatible with industry IO-Link standard devices to collect factory data to send directly into the cloud for different operations.


News Sep 08, 2022 by Damond Goodwin
Programming B&R PLCs With Automation Studio

Programming B&R PLCs With Automation Studio

While B&R PLC controllers are quite different from typical PLCs, Automation Studio offers tools and features that make programming them less intensive. In this article, we’ll discuss how to program B&R PLCs with Automation Studio.


An Overview of Sequential Function Chart (SFC) PLC Programming

An Overview of Sequential Function Chart (SFC) PLC Programming

Sequential Function Chart (SFC) is a graphical programming language among the languages identified by IEC 61131-3 programming languages and standard for PLC programming using ladder logic.


 PLC Program Commands: Arrays and Pointers

PLC Program Commands: Arrays and Pointers

The ability to utilize an array effectively is a fundamental skill in becoming a PLC programmer, but it can also be very complex and difficult to master. Let’s do a run-down of arrays and some of their complexities!


LMI Technologies’ All-in-one 3D Smart Sensor Solution

LMI Technologies’ All-in-one 3D Smart Sensor Solution

LMI Technologies has developed the Gocator 2600, a 3D smart sensor laser line profiler that provide customers with improved plant efficiency in order to reduce costs and improve production processes for their customers.  


News Aug 31, 2022 by Damond Goodwin
PLC Ladder Logic on an Arduino: Introduction to OpenPLC

PLC Ladder Logic on an Arduino: Introduction to OpenPLC

Build a low-cost PLC using the Arduino Uno and the open-source industrial controls software, OpenPLC, to learn how to program with ladder logic, beginning with your first OpenPLC project: Hello World.


Easier Signal Connections With New Banner Junction Blocks

Easier Signal Connections With New Banner Junction Blocks

Merging shared signals has been the job of terminal strips and junction boxes since the early days of electrical systems. Banner Engineering’s new molded junction blocks ease the process for assembling and troubleshooting.


News Aug 29, 2022 by Shawn Dietrich
Acromag’s New I/O Modules for Quick and Local Decision Making

Acromag’s New I/O Modules for Quick and Local Decision Making

Acromag recently released their new I/O modules, the BusWorks NT series, that can handle some of the rule-based decision making internally, saving processor time on automation systems.


News Aug 24, 2022 by Seth Price
SensoPart FT 55-RLAM Compact Photoelectric Sensor Series Update

SensoPart FT 55-RLAM Compact Photoelectric Sensor Series Update

SensoPart has updated its current F 55 compact class to include the FT 55-RLAM-320 model, offering new extended operating ranges for a diverse set of industrial applications.


News Aug 23, 2022 by Gunner Scott
Softing’s New OPC UA-based OT/IT Integration Solution with MQTT Connection

Softing’s New OPC UA-based OT/IT Integration Solution with MQTT Connection

Softing introduces a new OPC UA-based OT/IT integration solution with MQTT connection, the edgeAggregator, for applications in cloud and edge computing to manage complex system architecture.


News Aug 23, 2022 by Damond Goodwin
Introduction to Add-on Instructions for PLC Ladder Logic Programming

Introduction to Add-on Instructions for PLC Ladder Logic Programming

Learn how to take advantage of the powerful AOI feature that comes standard in Allen-Bradley / Rockwell PLCs using RSLogix 5000 and Studio 5000 Software.


Thermocouple Types: Which One Is Right For You?

Thermocouple Types: Which One Is Right For You?

There are many considerations when selecting a thermocouple type. In this article, we look at the advantages, and limitations, of the eight standard thermocouples and various installation considerations.


B&R Industrial Automation Hardware and Software

B&R Industrial Automation Hardware and Software

B&R is a control system manufacturer less heard of than some of its bigger competitors, Rockwell and Siemens, however their PLCs, lineup of motors, and product offerings with Automation Studio make B&R a leader in industrial innovation.


Rockwell Automation’s Newest Allen-Bradley Photoelectric Sensors

Rockwell Automation’s Newest Allen-Bradley Photoelectric Sensors

Rockwell Automation releases two new cost-effective, small form-factor photoelectric sensors that take advantage of visible and infrared spectrums for use in material handling, packing, and assembly operations. 


News Aug 16, 2022 by Seth Price
Comparing Programming Languages: Structured Text vs. Ladder Logic

Comparing Programming Languages: Structured Text vs. Ladder Logic

Ladder logic and structured text language are fairly common yet visually different. How do you choose the best PLC language for your automation application?


Mitsubishi Electric Automation Releases Servo Drive Packages

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Releases Servo Drive Packages

Mitsubishi Electric recently announced the release of three new servo motion control packages, easing the strain on customers to select individual components for the creation of a custom motion system.


News Aug 12, 2022 by Shawn Dietrich
I/O Module Debate: Transistor vs. Relay Output?

I/O Module Debate: Transistor vs. Relay Output?

When selecting the right module for the right load, be sure to understand how the load resistance will affect the voltage and current of the output module terminals.


The Annual EETech Engineering Survey of 2022

The Annual EETech Engineering Survey of 2022

The quality of content from our educational site comes from understanding our audience and your needs. Help give us the best snapshot of today’s control industry, along with a free chance to win one of several Amazon card prizes!


News Aug 09, 2022 by David Peterson
Automation Issues and Energy Usage in Environmental Extremes

Automation Issues and Energy Usage in Environmental Extremes

As summer heat continues to scorch the northern hemisphere, manufacturers face potential equipment damage and downtime. Learn about the ways extreme heat can damage automated equipment and systems.