All About PLCs: Networking and Communications

Learn about the modules and systems that provide a network connection to the outside world, transforming traditional PLCs into true, modern process automation controllers (PAC). The name PLC is going to stick around for a very long time. No matter what capabilities are contained inside an industrial controller, whether that includes I/O, networking, or even … Read more

Comparing SLC and ControlLogix PLCs: An In-Depth Review

The SLC 500 PLC family dominated automation control for well over thirty years and now, with the recent discontinuation of most of the series, we look at the differences between SLC and modern Logix PLCs. If you have worked in the automation industry in any facet over the last thirty years, especially in North America, … Read more

PacsAnalyzer V4.4

PacsAnalyzer Version 4.4

Download Link ————– PacsAnalyzer-Version-4.4.zip Introduction ————– PacsAnalyzer is the preferred tool used to collect PLC Module Information, Fault tables, andStation Manager Ethernet Data. PacsAnalyzer is compatible with following CPUs: • All PACs CPUs (RX3i and RX7i) and RX3i ENIU. • RXi controller (ICRXICTL000) • RSTi-EP Controller (EPSCPE100/115) • Series 90-70 CPU’s • Series 90-30, including … Read more

Understanding I/O Terminal Types And When To Use Them

Embedded, modular, panel mount, distributed, machine mount, and remote, oh my! What does it all mean, and how are you supposed to know which one to choose for your application? The automation industry has changed quite a lot over the last two decades. In the ‘good old days’ of automation, if you wanted to add … Read more

All About PLCs: Input/Output Modules

If your facility or workplace uses a PLC, it’s almost certainly because it must interface with physical input and output devices. What kinds of I/O modules exist, and how can you tell the difference? Out of all the sub-system components that make up a PLC, and throughout the world of computers in general, the I/O … Read more

All About PLCs: The Power Supply Unit

Learn all about the power supply: modular and built-in devices that deliver electricity to the PLC backplane and modules, and learn the difference between control and field device power delivery. Nearly every electronic device has some form of conversion from line voltage down to an appropriate voltage and form for its own use. Cell phones … Read more

What is a Safety PLC?

This article investigates the basic qualities that make up a safety PLC, what distinguishes a safety PLC from a standard model, and the reasons for which a safety PLC may be critical. Programmable logic controllers, or PLCs, are a very common type of controller used in automation. They are the baseline of many different automated … Read more

How-To: BRX PLC Programming With Digital I/O

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

Understanding Binary Numbers in PLCs

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

How To: Use ControlByWeb’s I/O Controller for Web-Based Logic

Logic is critical for industrial control, and it usually looks like ladders, function blocks, or structured text. I/O controllers are designed to automate simple logic tasks and data functions. Modern PLCs are capable of many thousands of tasks, including communication across many protocols, setting algorithms for motion and vision systems, and performing incredibly complex arrangements … Read more