Software distribution models have historically been on premises, however, as industry has become more digital, cloud-based solutions have become increasingly popular, including SaaS and its variants, IaaS and PaaS. See our previous article covering cloud computing and the IIoT: Cloud Computing and the Industrial Internet of Things Our previous article covered basic concepts about cloud … Read more
The next part of our Python learning journey will touch upon control flow, critical to implementing logic in programs. The concept is broad and the first topic to cover will be if/elif statements. Conditional statements are the first form of control flow we will learn. They are known formally as if / else statements. The … Read more
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
This article looks at rotary encoders, covering the main types, introducing their characteristics, and introducing their key applications in control systems. Rotary encoders are one of the most important elements of industrial automation. With their compact design, high reliability, and ability to withstand any type of environment, they have won the confidence of almost all … Read more
Join Control Automation for a visit to Beckhoff USA in Minneapolis, MN, as we learn about cabinet-free controls, high-speed motion, and magnetic conveyance working to drive the future of the industry. Remember the year 2019? That was one year before COVID rocked the world with shutdowns and global shortages of resources that forced many companies … Read more
What are pH monitoring systems and how are they applied in control systems? This article explores the use of pH sensors in the industry, as well as the basic setup of a pH control system. A fundamental understanding of the pH scale and acid-base reactions are recommended before reading this article. pH Monitoring and Control … Read more
What is a PLC? This article will lay out a succinct definition of a programmable logic controller and explain its basic components. The programmable logic controller, or PLC, is ubiquitous in every kind of process and manufacturing industry today. PLCs were initially designed to replace electromechanical relay systems in order to offer a simpler solution … Read more
PID controllers are an excellent method of using feedback to turn an otherwise open-loop system into one which can follow a carefully prescribed profile, correcting for inconsistencies caused by the equipment, the environment, and even the products in the manufacturing process. In many systems, it is sufficient to send voltage to a motor or valve, … Read more