Learn about the supervisory control and data acquisition system used to program PLCs and PIDs. See where, how, and why SCADA systems are so popular. Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) is the use of a system of computers, network architecture, data communication over a network, and a graphical user interface (GUI) to carry out … Read more
Advanced automation and IoT devices can detect vibration, but even complex systems can miss a variable and cause chaos. Working with these systems requires years of experience in order to understand the importance of errors. Things don’t always add up and occasionally there seems to be some problem or variable happening behind the scenes that … Read more
This article dives into automated palletizing and the different ways you can automate the palletization process through PLC and robotic controls. What is Palletizing? Once a manufactured product is complete and ready for shipment it generally needs to be palletized for convenient distribution. Without automation, workers have to physically handle and stack the product before shipment, … Read more
Industrial control system cybersecurity can be a matter of vital corporate and national interest. What are the operational risks, and how are they assessed? The problem domain of cyber resilience is so complex and dynamic that it is difficult to imagine where to begin. What practical steps ensure fiduciary responsibilities to both stakeholders and the broader … Read more
A human-machine interface is a valuable tool used to display key information and control your automated system with a panel that can be designed and programmed with flexibility. For generations of industrial control electronics, we have seen pushbuttons and switches dominating operator pedestals and cabinets, with arrays of indicators and stack lights to provide visual … Read more
In this article, we will look at plenum cables, what they are made of, and when it can be appropriate to use them. When installing cables, it is essential to choose the right type for your specific application. Plenum cables are used specifically in the plenum space of a building. The plenum space is an area that … Read more
What is TLS and what is its role in the Modbus-TCP version of the Modbus protocol? Security comes with added protocol complexity. Many industrial control systems rely upon encapsulating Modbus Application Protocol (MBAP) Protocol Data Unit (PDU) messages carried on a TCP/IP network within a “TLS” layer to secure communications. The combined solution is called ‘Modbus/TCP … Read more
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. Fluid systems rely on power transmitted through a gas or liquid to accomplish a … Read more
In this article, we take a look at adaptive machines and how they differ from traditional manufacturing techniques. With Industry 4.0 approaching, manufacturing processes and industrial control systems will change dramatically with adaptive machines set to become the next generation production method. The rapid growth of consumer product developments combined with changing consumer requirements is … Read more
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. If you are worried about the distance between machines or the age of an old machine becoming a hindrance to bringing your operation into the 21st century, don’t worry. Computer … Read more