Distributed control systems (DCS) evolved out of control systems for facilities, but their scope can be difficult to fully understand. This article explores the role of a DCS and how it fits in with PLCs and PACs. The early days of machine control centers were limited by the fairly basic capabilities of the CPUs inside … 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 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
The wide variety of sensors available for control systems leads to the daunting task of selecting the proper device. Different types of machines and programmable controllers require careful attention to detail when selecting appropriate sensors. Nearly every modern machine that needs to be repaired or upgraded has very specific requirements of what sort of data … Read more
Learn about the considerations that must be accounted for when designing process controls for pH neutralization. Whether you need to achieve a target pH as part of a manufacturing process or to neutralize a waste stream, pH control is both a common and complex issue in the world of process control. This article presents various … Read more
In this instrumentation and control (I & C) article, we’ll go over the fundamental terminology and concepts used when working with industrial plants. In this article, we will discuss the basic concepts and principles that govern the operation of industrial plants. Concepts associated with measurements of flow, level, temperature and pressure, electronics and pneumatics instrumentation, … Read more
Learn about redundancy and why it’s an important part of protecting control systems and a key part of avoiding costly system failures and malfunctions. Redundancy in control systems refers to the practice of maintaining an extra piece of equipment, devices, or software capable of performing the same functions as that of the original one at … Read more
Advanced automation and IoT devices can detect vibration, but even complex systems can miss a variable and cause chaos. Working with these systems requires years of experience in order to understand the importance of errors. Things don’t always add up and occasionally there seems to be some problem or variable happening behind the scenes that … Read more
Industrial control system cybersecurity can be a matter of vital corporate and national interest. What are the operational risks, and how are they assessed? The problem domain of cyber resilience is so complex and dynamic that it is difficult to imagine where to begin. What practical steps ensure fiduciary responsibilities to both stakeholders and the broader … Read more
Networked remote I/O allows us to work with a machine center separately from the rest of the system, and drop the solution right in place. If you are worried about the distance between machines or the age of an old machine becoming a hindrance to bringing your operation into the 21st century, don’t worry. Computer … Read more