A Condensed Guide to Automation Control System Part 3: Design
+Tech TopicsApplicationAutomation NotebookEnclosures & AccessoriesIssue 5 – 2005Learning ResourcesMachine ControlNotebook IssueProductProgrammable ControlTechnical ReviewTerminal Blocks & Wiring

A Condensed Guide to Automation Control System Part 3: Design

In Part 2 (Spring 2005 Issue 4), we covered how to specify the various devices required for interfacing and controlling the electrical equipment in an automated control system. In Part 3, we will cover the steps needed to design our automated control system. The design topics will include planning by defining our sequence of operation,…
Numbering Systems Explained
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 5 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueTech Thread

Numbering Systems Explained

There are several types of numbering systems typically used in automation equipment: Binary, Hexadecimal, Octal, BCD and Floating Point (Real). How to use them can be confusing. This article, from our Technical Support web page, explains the different numbering systems.  Binary Numbers Computers, including PLCs, use the Base 2 numbering system called Binary or Boolean….
The Evolutionary PLC: Past, Present and Future
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookCommunicationsIssue 5 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssuePLC SpeakingProductProgrammable Control

The Evolutionary PLC: Past, Present and Future

Everyone knows there’s only one constant in the technology world and that’s change – inevitable change. This is highly evident in the evolution of PLCs and their varied applications. Let’s take a look at yesterday’s focus and more importantly, today’s and beyond. Preparing and equipping users to meet the challenges of technological change head-on is…
EN418 Directive
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookControl & Signaling DevicesIssue 5 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTechnology Brief

EN418 Directive

With compliance to code and safety regulations continually taking on a more influential role across the industry, we will focus on European Machine Safety Directive EN418. Eaton/Cutler-Hammer supplied source information that has been compiled for the benefit of our readers. EN418 – What is it? EN418 is the European Standard for the Safety of Machinery…
2005 NEC® Code Changes
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookCover StoriesIssue 5 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook Issue

2005 NEC® Code Changes

The purpose of the National Electrical Code® (NEC®) is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards caused by using electricity. The NEC is prepared by a committee made up of a Technical Correlating Committee and 19 code-making panels. The committee’s responsibility is to create documents specifying code, which when adhered to, minimizes the…
VFDs Frequently Asked Questions
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookFYIIssue 4 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductVariable Speed Drives

VFDs Frequently Asked Questions

AutomationDirect’s technical support team has compiled a list of customer frequently asked questions for many of our products. The complete listing can be found on the technical support page of our Web site. Here are some of the frequently asked questions for variable frequency drives (VFD). FAQS Q: What is sensorless vector control?A: Sensorless vector control…
A User's Guide to Configuring Serial Ports for DirectLOGIC PLCs: Part Two
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 4 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductProgrammable ControlTech Thread

A User's Guide to Configuring Serial Ports for DirectLOGIC PLCs: Part Two

In the previous issue of Automation Notebook, Winter 2005 Issue 3, we discussed the communications capabilities of Port 2 on the DL06, DL250-1 and DL260 DirectLOGIC CPUs. We covered networking, wiring diagrams and protocols. In this issue we will discuss how to configure the communication port using DirectSOFT programming software while connected to the CPU….
Motion Control System Choices
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookFeature StoryIssue 4 – 2005Learning ResourcesMotion ControlNotebook IssueProduct

Motion Control System Choices

Motion control is generally understood to mean the use of servo and/or stepper systems as the “muscle” to move a given load.  These motion control systems are capable of extremely precise speed, position, and torque control. Applications which require positioning of product, synchronization of separate elements, or rapid start/stop motion are all perfect candidates for…
AC Drives Focused on Energy Conservation
+Tech TopicsAC Motors and ControlsApplicationAutomation NotebookCover StoriesEnergy/UtilitiesIndustryIssue 4 – 2005Learning ResourcesManufacturingNotebook IssueProductVariable Speed Drives

AC Drives Focused on Energy Conservation

Today, energy conservation and cost-cutting solutions have become a major focus in the manufacturing sector. Energy costs continue to increase and the extreme growth in China is contributing to rising costs in other areas of goods, including steel and coal. Managers of manufacturing facilities are faced with many questions regarding energy conservation and efficiency. They…