The 4-20mA analog current loop is a workhorse of automation, but initial setup and troubleshooting can be challenging, here are some tips to help. For all types of industrial machinery and automation, a basic 4 to 20 milliamp (4-20mA) wiring scheme has been one of the most prominent installation methods for transmitting analog signals. Digital…
The AutomationDirect robotics program and our interns shined brightly at the recent Forsyth County Schools College & Career Development/CTAE (Career, Technical, and Agriculture Education) awards ceremony! At the CTAE Excellence Awards Gala held late last month, AutomationDirect and its interns earned several honors: In addition, Tony Collins, the Forsyth Alliance Chair and AutomationDirect’s main point…
One of the best things about AutomationDirect, in my opinion, is our continuous focus on customer needs. We strive to go above and beyond for our customers, and we always appreciate feedback on how we’re doing and what products we may be lacking. Using surveys, reviews, forum posts, etc., we try to reach out as…
Transformers of various types are needed for most automated machinery, so it is important to understand the selection and sizing basics. Power transformers play a key role in any electrical distribution system, and also for end-use equipment like industrial control panels. Although many engineers, designers, and installers encounter transformers during the course of their professional…
Periodically, the AutomationDirect team reaches out to industry users in a variety of ways to gauge their interest on a variety of topics. For instance, in June 2016 we looked into whether users were “data-driven”. One of the questions in that survey addressed whether data was being accessed remotely via a web browser/client or mobile…
Stepper motors play an important role for motion control applications requiring more precision than standard variable speed motors, but not warranting the expense and complexity of servo motors. For many applications, a stepper motor solution occupies the sweet spot of providing the required performance, but at a much lower cost than servo solutions. This white…
Deciding between a PLC or Industrialized Open Source Controller can be difficult. These two control platforms are often compared against one another in the battle for which is better. Saying that one platform is better than the other is impractical. Both platforms have advantages and disadvantages dependent on the environments that they will be used…
– – – – – – DISCLAIMER – – – – – – –THIS INFORMATION PROVIDED BY AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITHOUT A GUARANTEE OF ANY KIND.We do not guarantee that it is suitable for your particular application, nor do we assume any responsibility for it’s use in your application. It is provided solely…
Enclosures are widely used to house electrical or electronic equipment along with switches, knobs and displays while providing a safe installation that prevents electrical shock to equipment users and protects the contents from the environment. Today’s enclosures are designed with features and materials that allow safe and protective use in hazardous areas, but also designed…
– – – – – – DISCLAIMER – – – – – – – THIS INFORMATION PROVIDED BY AUTOMATIONDIRECT.COM IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITHOUT A GUARANTEE OF ANY KIND. We do not guarantee that it is suitable for your particular application, nor do we assume any responsibility for it’s use in your application. It is…