Are Pneumatic Components Compatible?
+Tech TopicsCover StorieseBookIssue 35 - 2016Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueOnline OnlyPneumatic eBookPneumaticsPneumatics eBookProduct

Are Pneumatic Components Compatible?

The industrial pneumatics market is fairly mature. While there continues to be new developments and technologies, many of the tried and true core products have been around for years. One advantage that this can offer to both system designers and end users is often having several brands of pneumatic components that are interchangeable with each…
Linking Machines to IT Systems
+Tech TopicsApplicationCommunicationsCover StoriesData and IIoTData CollectionIIoT and DataIssue 33 - 2015Learning ResourcesMachine ControlNotebook IssueOperator InterfaceProductProgrammable Control

Linking Machines to IT Systems

Once upon a time, individual machines were stranded on an island, or just linked to other machines using a few discrete I/O and dry contact relays. Then came machine-to-machine data links such as a proprietary PLC-based network. Today, and certainly in the future, machines are being linked to IT systems.
Simulation Has Its Advantages
Automation NotebookCover StoriesIssue 32 - 2015Learning ResourcesNotebook Issue

Simulation Has Its Advantages

Creating an accurate software simulation for a complex system can be difficult, but there are many reasons to do it. Creating simulations of automated equipment, processes, and robot sequences is a great way to validate controller programming, test hardware settings, and check HMI configurations—all without cycling the actual equipment.  There can be many advantages to simulation,…
Beyond the Machine: OEMs Provide System Integration
ApplicationAutomation NotebookCover StoriesIssue 28 - 2014Learning ResourcesMachine ControlNotebook Issue

Beyond the Machine: OEMs Provide System Integration

Machine builders use technologies and expertise to provide system integration services that were once the realm of systems integrators and engineering firms. As automation systems become more integrated, the design, installation and commissioning of machines and robots on the factory floor can be a complex process. The machines must interact not only with existing production…
Industrial Ethernet or Fieldbus Network?
Automation NotebookCommunicationsCover StorieseBookIssue 27 – 2013Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProduct

Industrial Ethernet or Fieldbus Network?

With only about a quarter of the overall installed base of industrial networking using 4-20 mA and other hardwired methods, fieldbus communication systems are becoming the de facto choice for automation. Now the debate is shifting to the question of whether fieldbus-based networks will remain the standard or if it will be supplanted by industrial…