Learn how to use an AutomationDirect BRX PLC with the Do-more Designer software. This tutorial will cover discrete I/O commands along with basic timing and counting ladder functions. These days, it’s not always accurate to assume that a bigger computer means that’s always better. The same is true for PLCs. As electronics technology has improved, … Read more
We’ll start exploring loops with the ‘while’ loop in this tutorial. Loops are critical in all programming languages, especially in the control world, where loops form the basis of PLC functionality. In this Python tutorial series, we have begun to explore flow control, beginning with the previous topic of ‘if’ statements. The next basic form … Read more
Start to understand the difference between analog and digital communications, and read a few examples of how analog, digital, and discrete signals can be used in a control system. Communication between devices is one of the most critical, yet confusing concepts within a modern control system. Much of the confusion is due to many years … Read more
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. Modern control systems almost always use some form of digital control — most often in the form of a PLC. These computers rely on the use and understanding … Read more
Before digital control systems, responses were fairly slow. Push a button, and a motor contactor engaged. These days, the speed of computers introduces some new challenges but brings solutions as well. In the control system engineering space, it is well known that two different techniques exist for switching purposes, those that are purely mechanical and … Read more
Learn about serial and parallel data communication modes, errors, and flow controls used in connecting legacy and even some modern point-to-point network devices. Parallel transmission allows multiple bits to transmit simultaneously over multiple wires, enabling a device to send and receive data at high speed, while serial communication involves the transmission of bits one after … Read more
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. We see ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCI outlets everywhere in residential wiring. Some breakers even have ground fault protection characteristics. However, even though grounding … Read more
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 … Read more
Whether working with measurement tools or process controllers, it is important to recognize faulty display values and the best ways to fix them. Electrical and electronic instrumentation is a critical part of the automation system, and the performance of attached equipment significantly depends on its satisfactory operation. Like other machine parts, instrumentation also malfunctions and … Read more
Recognizing the value of a multimeter is a great first step. It’s important to know why a meter may help to save time during design and troubleshooting, and therefore save money. Just as important is the next step of understanding the wide assortment of meters, and the unique situations in which each one may prove … Read more