Latest Industrial Protocols Technical Articles

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 Configuration and  Data Logging: Using a PCU to Translate From Process to SCADA

Configuration and Data Logging: Using a PCU to Translate From Process to SCADA

The PCU400 can handle all known industrial protocols and forward them to the master station to get an effective connection between the SCADA system and the data from the manufacturing or system process.


B&R Automation Studio Programming Example - Driving Motion Axes

B&R Automation Studio Programming Example - Driving Motion Axes

Explore the design of a servo pick and place sample case using B&R Automation Studio, from the project creation to the configuration of the controller, drives, and motion axes. 


Cloud Computing and the Industrial Internet of Things

Cloud Computing and the Industrial Internet of Things

Over the last decade, cloud service providers have improved technology, particularly data security and integrity. These remain the top concern of many manufacturing businesses, but as improvements are rolled out, more and more companies are adopting cloud solutions. 


Working With Legacy Systems—Why Use Serial to Ethernet Converters?

Working With Legacy Systems—Why Use Serial to Ethernet Converters?

One common challenge when working with legacy control systems is establishing communication with old devices that use old protocols like RS232 and RS485. Learn about the importance of converting from serial to Ethernet.


Configuring a Network With Pneumatic Valve Manifolds

Configuring a Network With Pneumatic Valve Manifolds

There are many distributed fieldbus capabilities for valve manifolds that can save on network overhead and wiring. In this article, we will look at PLC programming of fieldbus manifolds highlighting Festo's CPX layout.


Controlling Hydraulic Devices with Open and Closed Loop Systems

Controlling Hydraulic Devices with Open and Closed Loop Systems

What if you could control the end position and the speed of a hydraulic actuator accurately with just a simple signal? Some systems use simple open/close valves, but others require far more precision.


How-To: Building a PLC Project with Modbus Communication

How-To: Building a PLC Project with Modbus Communication

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.


Choosing The Right Cables for Industrial Automation

Choosing The Right Cables for Industrial Automation

Industrial automation is only possible when the various system components can communicate with each other using physical cable connections. In this article, learn about some of the most popular communication cables and connectors used in the industry.


Comparing Industrial Ethernet Protocols

Comparing Industrial Ethernet Protocols

This article reviews and compares some of the most prominent industrial Ethernet protocols.


Introduction to Allen-Bradley Data Highway (DH) Networks

Introduction to Allen-Bradley Data Highway (DH) Networks

In this article, learn the basics of Allen-Bradley Data Highway, the various network structures, and the relationship between DH and Ethernet networks.


Introduction to Industrial Network Gateways

Introduction to Industrial Network Gateways

This article teaches the basics of gateways in industrial networks and PLC-to-PLC communication.


Connecting Multiple PLCs to an HMI

Connecting Multiple PLCs to an HMI

Learn the basics of connecting multiple PLCs to an HMI using various data types.


How Are Robots Used in the Process Industries?

How Are Robots Used in the Process Industries?

How are robots used in discrete versus process automation? Can the process industries utilize more robotic automation?


An Overview of Power Over Ethernet (PoE) and Its Use in Industrial Applications

An Overview of Power Over Ethernet (PoE) and Its Use in Industrial Applications

What is Power over Ethernet (PoE), how does it work, and how can industrial facilities benefit?


How Remote Access is Advancing in the Process Industries

How Remote Access is Advancing in the Process Industries

Due to the robust nature of process industries, there is a vast amount of data to read. Remote access can help parse data and has many additional benefits in these industries.


What is a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)?

What is a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)?

Learn the basics of remote terminal units (RTUs) and how they fit into a SCADA system.


Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

Introducing the Split-Range Time-Proportioning Instruction

A useful but often overlooked instruction included in Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs for heating and cooling.


Does 3D Printing Continue to Drive Digital Transformation?

Does 3D Printing Continue to Drive Digital Transformation?

As digital transformation continues to rise, technologies such as 3D printing also skyrocket. What is the relationship between these terms, and how can 3D printing help manufacturers and shops on their journey toward digital transformation?


M2M Communication: Is Ethernet or Wireless Better?

M2M Communication: Is Ethernet or Wireless Better?

Efficient communication between machines is key in industrial automation. As both Ethernet and wireless network technologies improve, which one is poised to take the lead in the future?


What Is the Difference Between Profibus and Profinet?

What Is the Difference Between Profibus and Profinet?

An overview of the requirements, standards, applications, and main differences between Profinet and Profibus communication protocol, connectors, and evolution from its original technology.