Latest PLCs & PACs Articles

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft research organization announces the development of a sensor system that can help robots…

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft research organization announces the development of a sensor system that can help robots detect transparent objects in three dimensions.

Rockwell recently announced the newest addition to the PowerFlex family of VFD units - the Armor PowerFlex series,…

Rockwell recently announced the newest addition to the PowerFlex family of VFD units - the Armor PowerFlex series, designed for on-machine control with heightened IP ratings over previous models.

In this first of an upcoming series, we investigate Siemens as a major PLC manufacturer, learning about the hardware,…

In this first of an upcoming series, we investigate Siemens as a major PLC manufacturer, learning about the hardware, software, and key applications of each product lineup.

The Keyence Corporation recently announced the NQ series network communication module, with the ability to automatically…

The Keyence Corporation recently announced the NQ series network communication module, with the ability to automatically detect any Keyence branded IO-Link devices for rapid installation and monitoring.

Hydraulic component leader Parker Hannifin recently announced a new PAC motion controller and module series with…

Hydraulic component leader Parker Hannifin recently announced a new PAC motion controller and module series with web-based visualization for instant remote monitoring of up to 40 motion axes.

Two common methods exist for driving induction motors with VFDs - linear scalar control, which is often labeled as V/f,…

Two common methods exist for driving induction motors with VFDs - linear scalar control, which is often labeled as V/f, and vector, or field-oriented control, which can be a bit more complex to understand.

Using an ADC can be very useful when dealing with analog devices in microprocessors, and a necessity when adding analog…

Using an ADC can be very useful when dealing with analog devices in microprocessors, and a necessity when adding analog devices to an industrial controller. But once you connect the hardware - what next?

Beckhoff Automation is advancing the concept of reducing cabinet space and lowering construction time with their recently…

Beckhoff Automation is advancing the concept of reducing cabinet space and lowering construction time with their recently announced MX-System.

Advanced features such as programmable limits, diagnostics, and remote configuration are available with IO-Link devices.…

Advanced features such as programmable limits, diagnostics, and remote configuration are available with IO-Link devices. Learn how to connect an example IO-Link block into an actual PLC project.

Linear position sensors are used in electrical and fluid-actuated motion devices. They allow extremely precise position,…

Linear position sensors are used in electrical and fluid-actuated motion devices. They allow extremely precise position, velocity, and acceleration control, and provide feedback to ensure product quality and tolerance compliance.

Commander S series of variable frequency drives from Control Techniques enables parameter upload and download as well as…

Commander S series of variable frequency drives from Control Techniques enables parameter upload and download as well as performance monitoring through secure NFC, app-based communication.

Before digital control systems, responses were fairly slow. Push a button, and a motor contactor engaged. These days, the…

Before digital control systems, responses were fairly slow. Push a button, and a motor contactor engaged. These days, the speed of computers introduces some new challenges but brings solutions as well.

Modbus is a communication protocol stemming from the early days of Modicon PLCs, but is still common today. These two…

Modbus is a communication protocol stemming from the early days of Modicon PLCs, but is still common today. These two example implementations of Modbus transactions will get you started.

Inductive loads, such as solenoids and contactors, can cause arcs and failures back into electromechanical switching…

Inductive loads, such as solenoids and contactors, can cause arcs and failures back into electromechanical switching devices, causing costly downtime. The solution is cheaper than you think.

Beijer Electronics recently announced the M Series of distributed I/O to provide on-machine control with a variety of…

Beijer Electronics recently announced the M Series of distributed I/O to provide on-machine control with a variety of communication options for system flexibility.

Failures of I/O systems are a common source of headache for control engineers. Troubleshooting those devices that have…

Failures of I/O systems are a common source of headache for control engineers. Troubleshooting those devices that have polarized connections (source vs sink, and NPN vs PNP) is a technique worth refining.

Power delivered to devices can be changed by raising or lowering the voltage and current. But this method does not always…

Power delivered to devices can be changed by raising or lowering the voltage and current. But this method does not always produce intended results. Pulse width modulation (or PWM) can be used to better control variable loads.

The window is closing for submissions to a funding competition - robotics, machine vision, and AI innovations are taking…

The window is closing for submissions to a funding competition - robotics, machine vision, and AI innovations are taking the center stage for a chance at winning $10,000. Are you ready?

In honor of Women's History Month, we explore the ways in which computer science is integral to the design of control…

In honor of Women's History Month, we explore the ways in which computer science is integral to the design of control systems and how women of the past have shaped the field of control systems today.