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Early fault detection and simple plug-and-play field replacements In addition to the large amount of process data available cyclically, faults can be identified easily through diagnostic information messages. This includes device faults, such as memory or processor failures, or process faults like empty pipe detection. Comprehensive diagnostics reporting increases overall system reliability and boosts customer…

Big Rig Custom Shop Accelerates Automation into the Passing Lane “Less is more” and “function over form” are phrases often associated with the design of objects—anything from office supplies up to buildings or larger—to promote a concept of simplicity, clarity, and essential purpose. However, there are plenty of cases where most people would agree that…

Options for Open Industrial Programming Industrial automation designers now have a variety of ways to incorporate an open programming approach for their projects. Although industrial-grade digital technologies have been available for over five decades, much of that time the hardware and software has been specialized and even proprietary. This is at odds with a large…

Starting Digital Transformation from the Edge While many operations personnel at production and manufacturing companies are aware that their automated equipment can be a source of valuable data for analytics and other purposes, far fewer companies are positioned to create the required IIoT infrastructure to access this information. Learn more PLCs Can Deliver Advanced Motion Control…

The Evolution of Controls from Relay Logic to IEC Programming In this video, Doug Bell from Interconnecting Automation discusses the evolution of machine control from relays to the first PLC with ladder logic and now IEC programming. Watch the video Installing a Rock-Solid Automation Retrofit This electrical contractor relied on AutomationDirect PLC and HMI hardware and…

From Ethernet to EtherCAT and Beyond Once upon a time (think 1980s), Ethernet was a relatively specialized computer connectivity technology, administrated by experienced gurus under highly-controlled office settings. Since then, technology and performance have advanced incredibly, and much of the world?s population uses wired and wireless (Wi-Fi) Ethernet in their everyday lives. Learn more AutomationDirect Named…

What is EtherCAT? EtherCAT, which stands for Ethernet for Control Automation Technology, is a high-performance industrial network protocol based on standard Ethernet. It?s specifically designed for real-time communication and deterministic data exchange, making it ideal for motion control applications like robotics, assembly lines, and packaging machines. Learn more C-more CM5 HMI Selected as a 2024 Control…

Supplier Profile: Metal Work What makes the “swoosh” noise happen when a soda can opens? What powers the gates, brakes, and passenger restraint systems on a roller coaster? What makes animatronics work at an amusement park? Compressed air is the magic that makes all these things happen ? and much more. Learn more Redundancy Options…

Automation Expands a Machine Shop?s Success By partnering with a local systems integrator and using AutomationDirect products, this machine shop enhanced its capabilities, allowing it to deliver the services required by its customers. Par Electric and Engineering founder Pete Baker explains how the two companies teamed up to deliver a high-performance pressure testing solution. Read more…

Automating a Big Rig Light Show A truck customization shop expanded their capabilities by offering AutomationDirect PLCs and HMIs to control expansive on-vehicle lighting displays.Just as many car owners like to customize their rides, there is a growing convoy of truck operators who like to do the same as a personal and promotional statement. Dickerson…