Distributed control systems (DCS) evolved out of control systems for facilities, but their scope can be difficult to fully understand. This article explores the role of a DCS and how it fits in with PLCs and PACs. The early days of machine control centers were limited by the fairly basic capabilities of the CPUs inside … Read more
Industrial network switches connect automation equipment, controllers, and other such devices. Learn about unmanaged, managed, and PoE enabled switches, as well as the differences between switches, routers, and hubs. Take a look at our previous articles to learn what control engineers need to know about networking gear: Introduction to Servers for Industrial Applications Introduction to … Read more
It’s important to keep your system up and running without regular intervention. While every system requires maintenance, never overlook the critical importance of tools and training for the operators. Once an automation system is up and running, it’s crucial to ensure it continues running smoothly with minimal effort on your part. While it’s never a … Read more
This article discusses PLC Sequencer Logic and the steps needed to accomplish PLC sequencing. PLCs have a set of inputs from sensors on which logical, and mathematical operations can be done. The output of the PLC is used to control the operating characteristics of the machine or process to which it is connected. Industrial PLC … Read more
Network routers are designed to route and pass information between a system of connected computers and devices. Learn about the role of routers in industrial applications and how to properly maintain them. Take a look at our previous article on servers: Introduction to Servers for Industrial Applications Network routers are in charge of the flow of … Read more
Servers are vital to the flow of information in and around organizations, acting as a hub for information transfer and storage. Learn about the role of servers in industry and the potential challenges that come with maintaining them. If you are the consumer of information, you may not pay much attention to servers, networks, and … Read more
Learn how to connect analog inputs, either voltage or current, to the Phoenix Contact’s IIoT PLC platform and design simple data processing programs with the PLCnext Engineer IDE. Before you get started, be sure to check out our recent introduction to discrete I/O with the PLCnext platform. Analog signals from sensors allow engineers to monitor … Read more
In this article, we will discuss the application and identification of NPN sensors, clarifying why they work and how to properly use them in a control circuit setting. Most engineers and technicians envision sensors as being the device that sends process information into a control system such as a PLC, VFD, or similar. That thought … Read more
This article discusses some of the encoder types, signal types, and wiring needed for synchronous serial interface (SSI) protocol. Many encoders use a form of signal communication called SSI (synchronous serial interface). Although the name contains the term serial, like the common industrial serial RS-232 protocols, this is a simple way to transmit information. This … Read more
A typical control system uses PNP sensors and tends to be easier to visualize. For opposite polarity systems, the NPN sensor is the only compatible sensor type. Learn more about NPN sensors, including characteristics and uses. In a typical control system, the primary method of sending input signals to a PLC is by first powering … Read more