2005 DARPA Grand Challenge
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomation NotebookFeature StoryIssue 5 – 2005Learning ResourcesMachine ControlNotebook IssuePLCProductProgrammable Control

2005 DARPA Grand Challenge

“After preliminary testing of our vehicle, and the subsequent breaking of a couple of welds, we’ve come to a few conclusions. First, our steering actuator has a lot more power than we really need! Second, we never should have attempted to test the steering system without the use of the encoder feedback. And third, we…
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…
Rhino Series Offers Variable DC Switching Power Supplies
Automation NotebookElectrical PowerIssue 5 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProduct

Rhino Series Offers Variable DC Switching Power Supplies

AutomationDirect now offers the RHINO line of power supplies, which includes several new metal and plastic-housed switching supply models. The new RHINO PSM series power supplies are industrial grade switching DC output supplies with a sturdy steel case to withstand harsh environments. Autoselect inputs for 115 VAC or 230 VAC and international agency approvals make…
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….
PLCs Evolving Toward Motion Control
Automation NotebookIssue 4 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssuePLC SpeakingProductProgrammable Control

PLCs Evolving Toward Motion Control

In our fast paced and economically stressed industrial world, flexibility is becoming a higher priority for those who are specifying automation systems. Users need multi-functional control, simple connectivity and easy access to process data, all wrapped up in a nice neat package. Today’s Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) have to be much more than the relay logic…
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…
Molded Case Circuit Breakers For Electrical Protection
Automation NotebookCircuit ProtectionIssue 4 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProduct

Molded Case Circuit Breakers For Electrical Protection

AutomationDirect now carries a line of Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCBs) that offers UL489 listed performance for branch circuit overcurrent protection and disconnecting means. The circuit breakers’ small size saves panel space, compared to standard breakers or comparable fusible devices. The breakers are manufactured under license from Eaton Electrical, Inc., the manufacturer of Cutler-Hammer products….
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…
Implementing a PLC Calibration Routine to Ensure Accurate Instrument Readings
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookFYIIssue 2 – 2004Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductProgrammable Control

Implementing a PLC Calibration Routine to Ensure Accurate Instrument Readings

Why Calibrate? Many applications call for a means to take accurate analog measurements. Force, pressure, electrical current, lengths, positions and other analog values that are measured must be done so with a degree of accuracy. Factory and lab personnel use calibration procedures to ensure that equipment is reading accurately. If the readings are not as…