This article discusses PLC Sequencer Logic and the steps needed to accomplish PLC sequencing. PLCs have a set of inputs from sensors on which logical, and mathematical operations can be done. The output of the PLC is used to control the operating characteristics of the machine or process to which it is connected. Industrial PLC … Read more
Network routers are designed to route and pass information between a system of connected computers and devices. Learn about the role of routers in industrial applications and how to properly maintain them. Take a look at our previous article on servers: Introduction to Servers for Industrial Applications Network routers are in charge of the flow of … Read more
Servers are vital to the flow of information in and around organizations, acting as a hub for information transfer and storage. Learn about the role of servers in industry and the potential challenges that come with maintaining them. If you are the consumer of information, you may not pay much attention to servers, networks, and … Read more
Learn how to connect analog inputs, either voltage or current, to the Phoenix Contact’s IIoT PLC platform and design simple data processing programs with the PLCnext Engineer IDE. Before you get started, be sure to check out our recent introduction to discrete I/O with the PLCnext platform. Analog signals from sensors allow engineers to monitor … Read more
In this article, we will discuss the application and identification of NPN sensors, clarifying why they work and how to properly use them in a control circuit setting. Most engineers and technicians envision sensors as being the device that sends process information into a control system such as a PLC, VFD, or similar. That thought … Read more
This article discusses some of the encoder types, signal types, and wiring needed for synchronous serial interface (SSI) protocol. Many encoders use a form of signal communication called SSI (synchronous serial interface). Although the name contains the term serial, like the common industrial serial RS-232 protocols, this is a simple way to transmit information. This … Read more
A typical control system uses PNP sensors and tends to be easier to visualize. For opposite polarity systems, the NPN sensor is the only compatible sensor type. Learn more about NPN sensors, including characteristics and uses. In a typical control system, the primary method of sending input signals to a PLC is by first powering … Read more
This article offers an introduction to cartesian (gantry) robots, including how they work and the applications they’re created for. Cartesian coordinate geometry is an excellent method for mapping three-dimensional space in a simple, easy-to-understand numerical system. In the Cartesian system for three-dimensional space, there are three coordinate axes that are perpendicular to each other (orthogonal axes) … Read more
Wrapping up the data structures portion of our journey are sets. This is the least frequently used data structure, but don’t write off the set just yet. Its efficiency and simplicity may provide value in manufacturing data processing. The set data structure in Python is one of the more niche structures that is built into … Read more
This article introduces Gray code, a specialized binary arrangement necessary for absolute encoders to communicate with controllers. Computer processors that run virtually all modern control systems speak in a unique language. Values of on/off relate to the ‘binary’ system, usually represented as 1 and 0. This system works well for most industrial sensors, but one … Read more