AutomationNotebook Issue 23
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In this issue, we focus on a group at San Diego State University. They recently participated in a theatre technology expo, where they demonstrated how PLCs can work in theater and on stage.Also see how a California company simplified the production of biodiesel while lowering production costs, and be sure to check out the latest and greatest on our Productivity3000 controller.

– TJ Johns
Senior Editor

In this issue of the Automation Notebook…

Automation NotebookIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueThe Break Room

Brainteaser Answers - Issue 23, 2012

In each issue of the Automation Notebook we feature a section of brainteasers. These are the brainteaser answers from Issue 23, 2012 of the Automation Notebook. The brainteaser questions are repeated in black. The answers to the brainteaser questions are highlighted in red with explanations. You can view the brainteasers from Issue 23, 2012 without the answers…
Automation NotebookIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueThe Break Room

Brainteasers - Issue 23, 2012

1. The Curly Shuffle A factory has three CNC machines – each with its own operator. One day a large order is received and Larry quickly boasts “Curly and I can produce all those parts in ten days, but if you let Moe help me instead of Curly, we can do it in 9 days”….
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomation NotebookEnergy/UtilitiesHMIIndustryIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesNotebook IssuePLCPneumaticsPneumaticsProcess ControlProcess Sensing & ControlProductProgrammable ControlSimple PLCUser Solutions

Bio Diesel Fuel Gets a Boost from Automation

Systems produce bio diesel for a total cost as low as 67 cents per gallon, turning waste into profit. Imagine if restaurants and other commercial food enterprises could turn used kitchen oil into fuel instead of simply disposing of it. Then imagine if they could do that in an economic and automated way for a…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesMotorsNotebook IssueProductTechnology Brief

Important Considerations for Replacing and Sizing AC Motors

How to determine whether to rewind or replace a motor, and how to find the right motor size for your application. Every business is trying to conserve energy in the face of high utility costs, so getting the best return on investment (ROI) is critical for maintaining a healthy balance sheet. The decision to replace…
Automation NotebookAutomationDirect SpotlightIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductProgrammable ControlSIDirectSystem Integrators

CH2M HILL Joins AutomationDirect’s SIDirect Team

Since its beginning in 1946, CH2M HILL has become a global leader by providing full-service consulting and design, as well as design-build and operations and program management in over 80 countries. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, CH2M HILL was founded on the principle of meeting high-end challenges and creating technical innovations. CH2M HILL provides turnkey solutions…
Automation NotebookIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductProgrammable Control

Set Your PAC in Motion

The 2012 year has brought many new enhancements for the Productivity Series control platform; you will notice subtle improvements to the software as well as major module additions such as the High-Speed Counter and Pulse Output modules. In this article we will review these enhancements to offer a better understanding of current product updates. The…
Automation NotebookIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesNotebook Issue

Product Snapshots – Issue 23, 2012

We have added several exciting products since our last edition of the Automation Notebook. Here are some highlights about some of those new products including: Jefferson Electric Buck-Boost Transformers, Stainless Steel Proximity Sensors, Metal Guard Foot Switches, Pneumatic Solenoid Valve Cables and Connectors, Bryant  Industrial Grade Duplex Receptacles and Watertight Wiring Devices and Accessories, Field…
Automation NotebookEnclosures & AccessoriesIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProduct

Industrial Strength Enclosure Heater and Enclosure Lighting Options

STEGO enclosure heaters, thermostats, hygrostats and hygrotherms protect against condensation while providing the greatest possible air circulation. Touch-safe convection heaters are designed to utilize natural convection, resulting in a circulating current of warm air while minimizing surface temperatures on the accessible side surfaces of the housing. The compact, DIN rail-mountable units are available in 12…
ApplicationAutomation NotebookFeature StoryIssue 23 – 2012Learning ResourcesManufacturingNotebook Issue

Cloud Computing in the Forecast

Cloud-based applications promise to deliver benefits for industrial applications, but implementation challenges exist. Cloud computing is becoming increasingly attractive for business and personal applications where its low cost solutions and fast deployment help companies and individuals save time and money. Many people already use the cloud for document management, data backup, Web mail, and music…