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Introduction to Shielding and Shielded Cables

Introduction to Shielding and Shielded Cables

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.


Barg vs Bara: Understanding Absolute and Gauge Pressure

Barg vs Bara: Understanding Absolute and Gauge Pressure

A common difference of terms arises when referring to air or pneumatic pressure, and those are gauge (BarG) pressure and absolute (BarA) pressure. Both can accurately describe a system, but when performing calculations and tests, it’s important to distinguish the difference.


An Introduction to User Requirement Specifications (URS)

An Introduction to User Requirement Specifications (URS)

Learn all about user requirement specifications (URS), including what should and should not be included and their importance for organizations planning to purchase new equipment.


Wet vs. Dry Contacts: Knowing the Difference

Wet vs. Dry Contacts: Knowing the Difference

Wiring design systems can become confusing when some switching devices send power to the load automatically while others do not. Often called ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ contacts, these devices are fairly easy to troubleshoot once the differences are understood.


How To Measure DC Voltage With a Multimeter

How To Measure DC Voltage With a Multimeter

The simplest and most common measurement to obtain using a multimeter is voltage, in fact, they are often called ‘voltmeters’ for this reason.


Predictive vs. Preventive Maintenance

Predictive vs. Preventive Maintenance

This article covers how predictive and preventive maintenance work, the types of each form of maintenance, and applications in which each is used.


An Introduction to Key Algorithms Used in SLAM

An Introduction to Key Algorithms Used in SLAM

The use of algorithms is essential in order to get simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) to work successfully. This article introduces some of the main algorithms used, both common and state-of-the-art.


Utilizing Mapping and Localization in SLAM for Robotics

Utilizing Mapping and Localization in SLAM for Robotics

Mapping and localization are the highly-intertwined building blocks of SLAM and have several different implementations with varying performance and sensor requirements. Learn about them in this article.


An Introduction to Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) for Robots

An Introduction to Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) for Robots

SLAM for robotics utilizes mapping and localization for accurate movement. This article covers the architecture of a mobile robot running SLAM and the different broad classifications withing SLAM.


How Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters Protect System Wiring

How Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters Protect System Wiring

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are commonly seen in residential wiring. They are important to understand, as they exist to protect both the users and the electrical systems used everyday.


A Look Into Rotary Encoder Types: Absolute and Incremental

A Look Into Rotary Encoder Types: Absolute and Incremental

This article looks at rotary encoders, covering the main types, introducing their characteristics, and introducing their key applications in control systems.


What is Automated Drilling? A Look Into the Benefits and Practices

What is Automated Drilling? A Look Into the Benefits and Practices

This article discusses the definition of automated drilling and a look into some of the key features and best practices.


Are Smart Devices Opening Production to Attacks?

Are Smart Devices Opening Production to Attacks?

This article mentions how to reduce threats by limiting connections and data sent to outside networks.


Troubleshooting Solid State Relays

Troubleshooting Solid State Relays

This article discusses some methods for troubleshooting solid-state relays and input/output terminals.


What Are the Key Benefits of Mechanical Relays?

What Are the Key Benefits of Mechanical Relays?

This article explores some of the key benefits and drawbacks of mechanical relays.


Five Key Advantages of Solid State Relays

Five Key Advantages of Solid State Relays

This article discusses the benefits and five key advantages of using solid-state relays.


Introduction to Codes and Standards for Instrumentation and Controls Engineers

Introduction to Codes and Standards for Instrumentation and Controls Engineers

Regardless of industry, codes and standards developed by organizations including ISO, ANSI, and IEEE are an integral part of the environment in which we work and have a major influence on engineering and design.


The Difference Between Electromechanical and Solid State Relays

The Difference Between Electromechanical and Solid State Relays

Just like the emergence of transistors led to digital control systems, solid-state electronics have created a whole new variety of relays with some striking differences, with a few distinct advantages.


Sensor Installation for Control and Automation Systems

Sensor Installation for Control and Automation Systems

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.


Introduction and Common Uses for Distance and Proximity Sensors

Introduction and Common Uses for Distance and Proximity Sensors

This article provides an introduction to proximity and distance sensors and common uses for them.