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Introduction to Smart Sensors

Introduction to Smart Sensors

Smart sensors differ from traditional sensors in that they offer benefits such as self-diagnostics, simplified wiring and communication, and more efficient remote monitoring.


Graphical User Interface (GUI) vs. Human-machine Interface (HMI)

Graphical User Interface (GUI) vs. Human-machine Interface (HMI)

Learn the similarities and differences between GUIs and HMIs in the industrial sector. Can they be used together?


How to Utilize Real-time Production Data and Achieve Better Manufacturing Results

How to Utilize Real-time Production Data and Achieve Better Manufacturing Results

Struggling to find the best ways to utilize real-time production data? This article reviews six steps to achieve better manufacturing results.


Introduction to Photoelectric Sensors

Introduction to Photoelectric Sensors

Sensing objects is a tricky business because of the many variables in light, surface texture, distance, color, and other factors. Learn how a photo sensor works!


Control Considerations for Plastic Injection Molding

Control Considerations for Plastic Injection Molding

Do you know how the injection molding process works? Learn the basics as well as control processes to consider.


How to Implement the Data Science Lifecycle: Computer Vision

How to Implement the Data Science Lifecycle: Computer Vision

This article reviews how to implement the data science lifecycle CRISP-DM model phases into industrial computer vision.


Deep Dive Into the Data Science Lifecycle

Deep Dive Into the Data Science Lifecycle

Learn the definition and basic steps of the data science life cycle, particularly the popular CRISP-DM model.


Data Lake vs. Big Data for Industrial Applications

Data Lake vs. Big Data for Industrial Applications

This article teaches the definitions of big data and data lake, how to use them together, and industrial applications.


A Software Approach to Calculating Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) and Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF)

A Software Approach to Calculating Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) and Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF)

MTTR and MTBF are metrics utilized to determine equipment downtime. How do you calculate these metrics, and how can a control engineer use them for machine reliability?


Combining Two Deep Learning Models

Combining Two Deep Learning Models

Combining two deep learning models, otherwise known as ensemble learning, has numerous techniques. Let’s review the current techniques and their advantages and disadvantages.


How to Use Data to Drive Digital Transformation

How to Use Data to Drive Digital Transformation

As the tangible world can be costly and consumes natural resources, digital transformation is reducing cost and providing more options to consumers. How is data driving digital transformation, and what is to come next in a digital world?


Types of Motor Starters and Application Considerations

Types of Motor Starters and Application Considerations

Motors drive all sorts of processes in a facility. Depending on the application, which motor starter is best suited for your needs?


Deep Learning vs. Machine Learning

Deep Learning vs. Machine Learning

Deep learning is a subset of machine learning, which is a subset of artificial intelligence. So, what makes deep learning different from machine learning?


Types of Process Manufacturing Equipment

Types of Process Manufacturing Equipment

During process manufacturing, raw materials are mixed together to create a product. This process includes many stages, and thus, copious types of equipment.


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.


Solenoids vs. Linear Actuators for Industrial Automation

Solenoids vs. Linear Actuators for Industrial Automation

Solenoids and linear actuators provide similar movements in industrial applications. What are the main similarities and differences, and how are they each used?


Process vs. Discrete Manufacturing

Process vs. Discrete Manufacturing

What are the similarities and differences between process and discrete manufacturing, and how can control engineers best equip themselves for these processes?


Designing and Planning Existing Control System Upgrades

Designing and Planning Existing Control System Upgrades

After understanding how to select the right control system, learn how to design and plan control system retrofits.


Calculating the Speed of a Conveyor System

Calculating the Speed of a Conveyor System

Different conveyance systems have different ways to calculate speed. Let’s dive into these systems, their speed, and some determining factors.


How to Control Robotic Transfer Systems with Laser Distance Sensors

How to Control Robotic Transfer Systems with Laser Distance Sensors

Let’s take a closer look at retrofitting T-cart control with newer technology, such as using laser distance sensors versus limit switches.