Learn the general characteristics of encoders and resolvers; these two components may seem to have much in common but are used in very different applications.
Learn the general characteristics of encoders and resolvers; these two components may seem to have much in common but are used in very different applications.
This article introduces a few simple methods to test which type of circuits — whether ground- or power-switched — are…
This article introduces a few simple methods to test which type of circuits — whether ground- or power-switched — are being used and how to troubleshoot and properly fix issues.
Learn about the many ways cyber-attacks threaten SCADA systems, and what can be done to keep manufacturing and utility…
Learn about the many ways cyber-attacks threaten SCADA systems, and what can be done to keep manufacturing and utility plants protected.
Learn all about Digital Twinning, and how this new technique can change the way we do a number of industrial operations!
Learn all about Digital Twinning, and how this new technique can change the way we do a number of industrial operations!
This article introduces how the binary system is used in PLC programming and covers why this number system works so well…
This article introduces how the binary system is used in PLC programming and covers why this number system works so well in this area of system control.
The sensors in absolute encoders output Gray code sequences which require some complicated conversion methods to be…
The sensors in absolute encoders output Gray code sequences which require some complicated conversion methods to be properly used. This article shows how to take the Gray code used by absolute encoders and convert it to binary.
This article introduces Gray code, a specialized binary arrangement necessary for absolute encoders to communicate with…
This article introduces Gray code, a specialized binary arrangement necessary for absolute encoders to communicate with controllers.
For many manufacturing processes, it is extremely important to measure the exact rate at which fluid is moving or…
For many manufacturing processes, it is extremely important to measure the exact rate at which fluid is moving or flowing. We turn to flow gauges to provide these measurements, and there is a great diversity in operating principle as well as proper application to the fluid that is being measured.
Learn how one engineer's real-world experience showed him the importance and power of SCADA systems for control automation.
Learn how one engineer's real-world experience showed him the importance and power of SCADA systems for control automation.
Within an industrial setting, noise from EMI can create huge problems. For large load devices using many amps of current,…
Within an industrial setting, noise from EMI can create huge problems. For large load devices using many amps of current, small electrical noise may not be too critical. But when it comes to low-voltage and low-current communication wires, just a small amount of voltage finding its way onto a wire can corrupt data transmissions. Shielded cables can help to protect against that problem.
The simplest and most common measurement to obtain using a multimeter is voltage, in fact, they are often called…
The simplest and most common measurement to obtain using a multimeter is voltage, in fact, they are often called ‘voltmeters’ for this reason.
This article looks at rotary encoders, covering the main types, introducing their characteristics, and introducing their…
This article looks at rotary encoders, covering the main types, introducing their characteristics, and introducing their key applications in control systems.
When it comes to electrical grounding, many strategies are employed to accomplish different tasks. One of the main…
When it comes to electrical grounding, many strategies are employed to accomplish different tasks. One of the main reasons for grounding equipment is for the safety of users and equipment while maintaining strict adherence to regulations.
Whether it’s a critical machine repair or the installation of a brand new piece of equipment, it’s important to have…
Whether it’s a critical machine repair or the installation of a brand new piece of equipment, it’s important to have the knowledge and skill to properly connect sensors to a control system.
In this article, we take a look at hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric actuators and how they are used in different scenarios.
In this article, we take a look at hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric actuators and how they are used in different scenarios.
Networked remote I/O allows us to work with a machine center separately from the rest of the system, and drop the…
Networked remote I/O allows us to work with a machine center separately from the rest of the system, and drop the solution right in place.
Industrial control system cybersecurity can be a matter of vital corporate and national interest. What are the…
Industrial control system cybersecurity can be a matter of vital corporate and national interest. What are the operational risks, and how are they assessed?
Take a look at the concept of cyber resilience in control systems and how it relates to cybersecurity for critical…
Take a look at the concept of cyber resilience in control systems and how it relates to cybersecurity for critical infrastructure in the age of security vulnerabilities