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
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
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
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
We depend on circuit breakers all the time, even when you have a day off or work from home. These overcurrent protection devices keep machines running safely, reducing the risk of fires and arcing. Circuit breakers are overcurrent protection devices found in commercial, residential, industrial, and agricultural applications. In the manufacturing environment, these are most … Read more
We know what a circuit breaker is meant to do: stop the flow of electricity in case of a fault or failure. But just like fuses, breakers and overloads respond differently depending on the load. Circuit breakers and motor overloads are designed to open a circuit under dangerous overcurrent conditions. This is often less about … Read more
Protection against faults is crucial for any electrical system. This article examines various protective devices, highlighting their roles and best use cases to ensure system integrity and longevity. Overcurrent conditions from short circuits, power surges, and other anomalies can cause damage to sensitive components, leading to costly repairs and downtime. The absence of proper protective … Read more
Machine safety design can be a daunting task with all the different safety devices on the market today. Choosing the correct device for your design can be made easier by understanding when to use the proper device. Machine Safety Automated equipment can be a simple pneumatic cylinder or an assembly of different automation components all … Read more
Designing a system with motor motion always includes a consideration of safety. Incorporating safety contactors might be the correct prevention to protect equipment and users but may add additional challenges. Why Is Switching Power So Important? Most control panels on equipment with some level of automation will have contactors inside. A contactor is a device … Read more
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. In the world of control devices, we can find a nearly endless variety of brands, models, and … Read more