+Tech Topics Archives | Page 10 of 23 | Library.Automationdirect.com

Field-Friendly Hardware Features

September 1, 2015

As you all probably know, field startups can be quite stressful. Did the equipment arrive on time and with all needed components? Has the site prep work been completed? Are all needed personnel and permits on site? Where are my plane tickets? Do I need to rent a car? What about hotel reservations? With all that…

+Tech Topics eBook Learning Resources Online Only Product Safety

Switched On for Safety

August 24, 2015

You’ve probably seen some seemingly well-designed machines rendered unsafe because plant operators disabled safety switches. I know I’ve encountered such situations, and it’s our responsibility as engineers and designers to address this issue

+Tech Topics Learning Resources Online Only Process Sensing & Control Product Programmable Control

Temperature Sensing & Monitoring | Automation Notes

August 18, 2015

I’d be willing to bet that the majority of you have come across temperature sensing in some way throughout your industrial automation career. Any takers? I’ll give you 3-to-1 odds! You’d be smart not to take that bet since temperature is one of the most measured parameters in automation. But how does it work? How…

+Tech Topics eBook Learning Resources Online Only PLC eBook Product Programmable Control

What is a PLC? Definition, Benefits & Examples

August 5, 2015

PLC Definition Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) are often defined as miniature industrial computers that contain hardware and software used to perform control functions. More specifically, a PLC would be used for the automation of industrial electromechanical processes, such as control of machinery on factory assembly lines, amusement rides, or food processing. They are designed for multiple…

+Tech Topics eBook Learning Resources Online Only PLC eBook Product Programmable Control

PLC Hardware

August 5, 2015

What controls you? No, I’m not talking about your boss, your spouse or the government. Instead, think of your body as an industrial control system. Now, what controls you? Hopefully, you said your brain, although the heart is an acceptable answer sometimes. But for now, let’s focus on the brain and the nervous system as…

+Tech Topics eBook Learning Resources Online Only PLC eBook Product Programmable Control

PLC Software - Helpful features to look for

August 5, 2015

One of the biggest factors in any PLC buying decision is the capability of the programming software. How easy is it to use? What does it offer? PLC hardware is only half of the equation, and who wants to buy a controller only to find out the software is lacking the basics? No thanks! So,…

+Tech Topics eBook Learning Resources Online Only PLC eBook Product Programmable Control Simple PLC

Ladder Logic Instructions - The Basics

August 5, 2015

In Understanding Ladder Logic we touched on the origins of Ladder Logic, its structure and execution. So now that we have a understanding of what Ladder Logic is, we can dig a little deeper into how ladder instructions work. And to do that, we need to first understand Boolean math and logic gates. Now, this blog…

+Tech Topics Discrete Sensing eBook Learning Resources Motors Online Only PLC eBook Process Sensing & Control Product Programmable Control

Ladder Logic in Action

August 5, 2015

Ladder logic programming for industrial controllers has evolved significantly over the years, and now supports advanced functionality such as process control, motion control, data manipulation, networking, and data acquisition. However, when you start with a blank page to design a new control system, large or small, there are many basic functions this tried-and-true language is…

+Tech Topics eBook Learning Resources Online Only PLC eBook Product Programmable Control

Methods Behind PID Loop Control

August 5, 2015

Lock your doors, board up the windows, and prepare yourself for a deeper look into PID loops! Now, if you are still here, great! If you ran out of the room screaming like I did, you can catch up later. For some, PID loops can be scary. After all, they are pretty complex and involve…

+Tech Topics Communications Communications and Ethernet eBook ethernet explosion Learning Resources Online Only PLC eBook Product Programmable Control

PLC Communications - Coming of Age

August 5, 2015

PLC communications has grown and changed over the many years since the controller’s inception decades ago. Industrial needs and technological advances have kept PLC communications evolving, and this post will explore some past and present communication standards, and what the future may hold. PLC Partners in Communications PLCs need to communicate to a number of different…

+Tech Topics

Additional Resources

Pneumatic Circuit Symbols Explained

AutomationDirect PLC eBook

What is a PLC?

10 Reasons to Use a Fuse

Practical Guide to AC Motors and Control Options

Practical Guide to Discrete Sensors for...