December 2012
Find near-misses hidden inside process data
Product Exclusive: Near-Miss Management’s Dynamic Risk Analyzer software discovers near-misses hidden within process data, helping to improve process performance and avert operational issues before... » more
Decentralizing process control and information management
The “D” in DCS has always stood for distributed. While the technological drivers behind this networking strategy may have changed, do the basic concepts of distributed intelligence still apply? » more
A look at the Smart Grid’s demand side
Automation industry exec says this is where users can “do something now” while waiting for the Smart Grid to take shape. » more
Making HART communicate
HART-enabled process instrumentation is everywhere, but how does it communicate? New chip designs support this time-tested protocol. » more
November 2012
EC: Ti125 Thermal Imager
Hardware - Handheld test, measurement, calibration: The Fluke Ti125 thermal Imager is a high-performance, fully radiometric infrared camera for troubleshooting electrical installations,... » more
EC: Quadron CrossLink Carrier Class J Fuseholders
Power - Energy, power interruption: It is a UL508 listed fuse holder for the Wöhner 60-mm System classic busbar power distribution system. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice... » more
EC: GT16 Series HMI
Hardware - HMI, operator interface, thin-client: Mitsubishi Electric Automation unleashes an innovative HMI solution for design engineers: The GT16 Series HMI, which tightly integrates multimedia and... » more
EC: Series 57 Pushbutton
Hardware - HMI, operator interface, thin-client: Extra large actuation area with dual illuminating rings to show visual indication of operational state is unique to industry also combining integrated... » more
EC: CP2xxx and CP3xxx Multi-Touch Panel Series
Hardware - HMI, operator interface, thin-client: Industrial Control Panels and Panel PCs with multi-touch display technology. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist. » more
October 2012
Leader Under 40: Stephen Thomas
Automation Projects Team Lead, ExxonMobil Research and Engineering - B.S. Chemical Engineering, Auburn University » more
Integrated HMI and PLC reduces development time
Product Exclusive: Wago Perspecto CP TV merges an HMI and a PLC into one package, combining hardware and software for logic and visualization, thereby reducing overall costs and development time, the... » more
This supplement could be better than a new iPhone
Industrial Energy Management: This supplement to Control Engineering and Plant Engineering provides insight into how systems integration unlocks the true value of energy management systems. While... » more
A new era of energy management
Network protocol translators and other new technology make it easier for manufacturers to execute strategic energy management programs. » more
September 2012
Industrial network integration improves productivity
Selecting industrial networking protocols, industrial Ethernet included, helps improve production efficiency and quality, with enterprise connectivity. Connectorized networking decreases repair time... » more
Machine vision, ID-reader network integration
Integrate Ethernet-based machine vision and image-based ID readers into factory networks for more direct communications and less expense. See photos, examples. » more
Brewing more with industrial Ethernet
Case study: Saugatuck Brewing expanded beer output fourfold in two years, with help of EtherCAT industrial Ethernet and PC-based controls. See photo gallery. » more
Improve the scalability of measurement and control systems
NI LabVIEW 2012 by National Instruments includes ready-to-run starting points for a breadth of LabVIEW applications and access to new training options that help improve the quality of measurement and... » more
When outsourcing is slow-sourcing
Engineering and IT Insight: You cannot improve what you don’t measure, so at the very least it is important that every outsourced support organization includes a measurable feedback policy for each... » more
August 2012
CIP Safety: Fail-safe communication between nodes
CIP Safety, for functional safety applications on the EtherNet/IP and DeviceNet networks, provides fail-safe communication between nodes, such as safety I/O blocks, safety interlock switches, safety... » more
Safety at Work tutorial on networked safety strategies
Safety at Work, a multi-vendor, open technology, simplifies machine safety installations by collecting and controlling functional safety devices like e-stops, light curtains, guard switches, etc.,... » more
Use intelligent servo drives to filter mechanical resonance
Inside Machines: Learn how to control machine resonance—the “white noise” generated by machine motion—in servo-driven printing and converting machines. Intelligent servo drives provide advanced... » more
Energy-Saving Drive Solutions
Industrial Energy Management: Intelligent concepts cut costs and protect the environment while saving energy; high-efficiency energy conversion and recovery of braking energy also can help. » more
3 pillars of industrial cyber security
Engineering and IT Insight: A stable physical structure requires at least three main supports. Three “pillars” form the basis for an effective industrial cyber security system: technology, policy and... » more
July 2012
Cyber security insurance
Legalities: Don’t think the threat of industrial security breach isn’t real. Now there’s insurance to help mitigate financial risks related to cyber security and other threats to control system... » more
Industrial Ethernet switches: trends, applications
Control Engineering International: In February 2012, Control Engineering China sent control engineers a questionnaire about industrial Ethernet switch applications and trends; 375 readers from 20... » more
Modular, managed industrial Ethernet switches
Control Engineering International: Industrial Ethernet switches that are modular and managed include the following, according to a Control Engineering China March 2012 article. » more
Trends in automation software: Smarter, safer, more sustainable productivity
An integrated software architecture can help bring a machine online 30% faster. Production engineers can use one control platform for multiple processes and reduce switchover time by 25%, according... » more
Flowmeter trends, applications
Control Engineering International: Control Engineering China (CEC) polled its online visitors about flowmeter trends, application, and use; 82% of respondents’ companies are buying flowmeters this... » more
June 2012
Example: Driving a chain conveyor with a gear motor and VFD
If you’re starting from scratch with a new application, you have to determine how hard the motor needs to work to do the job. » more
Choose the right industrial connector
Evaluate application and environment to determine the best connector to incorporate into an industrial design or upgrade. » more
Low energy Bluetooth wireless protocol
Bluetooth low energy technology isn’t just another Bluetooth revision—it’s a whole new technology that can benefit industrial communications. » more
Top 10 guidelines to help choose the right system integrator
There are no widely adopted business and technical standards for the system integrator industry, so setting benchmarks and selection criteria can help you sleep better with the decision. » more
Machine vision: high-speed, long-distance communications
CoaXPress (CXP) is a high-speed point-to-point serial communication standard for the transmission of video data, scalable over single or multiple coaxial cables. It has a high-speed downlink of up to... » more
May 2012
Your best day today - Engineers get advice on communication, leadership
Think Again: Engineers shouldn’t downplay their communication skills or abilities to be dynamic business leaders, said Michael Allosso, communication specialist, at the CSIA 2012 meeting. Living your... » more
Backlights evolution for human machine interface (HMI) panels
Technology Update: White LEDs show high-temperature advantages for touchscreen HMIs or operator interface backlighting compared to cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) backlit liquid crystal displays... » more
Automation integration services: Consider workload, risks
While it may seem logical to keep as many services in-house as possible, factors to consider include workload, forecasting work, schedule, deadlines, expertise, design quality, liability, and risk.... » more
Control Panel Design: Tips and Tricks
Enclosure ratings, filters, input and output, networking, and safety are among enclosure design considerations. » more
Filling Bottles: Go with the Flowmeter
As bottle-filling machines look for greater speed and consistency, some users move from older weigh cell technology to flowmeter-based systems, but it’s a tough application. » more
April 2012
Control panel connectivity system add Ethernet
Product Exclusive: Eaton SmartWire-DT system adds EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP connectivity options to reach more customers with its lean automation solution, to reduce panel wiring costs, improve... » more
HART technology, partial-stroke valve testing: A powerful duo for improving plant safety
Digital valve controllers make the job of implementing partial stroke valve testing programs much simpler. » more
A rational approach to alarm rationalization
While it may not be your favorite activity, thoughtful alarm rationalization pays major operational dividends in the long run and will keep your operators happier. » more
Cut Chiller Energy Costs by 30%
Industrial Energy Management: Prepackaged retrofit for centrifugal compressor chiller also said to reduce required maintenance and extend operating life. » more
Machine-tool Energy Efficiency: Current Issues
Industrial Energy Management: A range of energy consumers, such as pneumatics, hydraulics and lubricant processing, influence a work center’s power profile. » more
March 2012
Industrial safety first
Control Engineering International: For better manufacturing safety awareness use a high-profile risk management mechanism, says Control Engineering China. » more
Industrial mobility: Information where needed
Industrial-strength mobility is happening with the manufacturing and IT workforce today. Embrace it, guide it, make it secure, or it may dictate how your business will change, suggested experts at a... » more
Mobile workers respond to alarms, view data logs
Apple iPad serves as remote workstation for graphite product manufacturer Toyo Tanso. » more
Mobile industrial worker
Technologies have enabled industrial workers to get mobile, and there’s no going back. » more
Tips and Tricks: 9 tips for a smarter wireless industrial workforce
Nine tips help enable an industrial wireless mobile workforce, including standards, self-healing technologies, and the right blend of hardware and software. » more
February 2012
Intelligent transmitter for electrochemical sensors
Invensys Operations Management's Foxboro 876CR is used for hazardous electrical areas in challenging industrial environments. The 876CR is designed for rapid customization for enhanced flexibility. » more
High output accelerometer for machinery health monitoring
The 786-500-D2 accelerometer by Meggitt is designed for condition monitoring for rotating equipment and can be used in hazardous areas because of its Class I Div 2/Zone 2 certification. » more
USB and you
Engineering at 30 Frames: Everywhere we look we see USB (as well as issues that come along with them) - in the field, office, and at home. » more
Nanosensors for machines
Back to Basics: Lower-cost nano sensing technologies are making their way into pressure, position, and motion sensors, transmitters, and power supplies. » more
Ethernet/IP I/O modules
Belden Inc. has released Ethernet/IP modules that can connect to discrete wiring devices via 16 digital I/O channels with universal input/output or input functionality » more
January 2012
How safe are your electrical system work practices?
Survey results show many don’t always follow the rules when working on industrial control equipment. Is failure to wear required protective equipment a foolish choice or an acceptable risk? Clamor... » more
PLC-based Bode loop analysis for industrial controls
Technology Update: Today’s PLC can do Bode loop analysis, bringing benefits to industrial controls long enjoyed in the electronics world. The Bode analyzer function block described improved the... » more
Exploring robotics for the factory of the future
Control Engineering Europe’s Suzanne Gill reports on a European Commission co-funded project that is testing the idea that industrial robot technology could provide a good base for machining, being... » more
Control programming software strategies for industrial systems
Control programming strategies for industrial systems are changing because of the desire to reuse and adapt programming for a variety of controllers: PLCs, PACs, IPCs, and embedded controls. Control... » more
Digital device communication
Analog is holding its own, but more applications depend on digital communication to move growing amounts of information. » more
Analog is holding its own, but more applications depend on digital communication to move growing amounts of information. » more
Find near-misses hidden inside process dataProduct Exclusive: Near-Miss Management’s Dynamic Risk Analyzer software discovers near-misses hidden within process data, helping to improve process performance and avert operational issues before... » more
Decentralizing process control and information managementThe “D” in DCS has always stood for distributed. While the technological drivers behind this networking strategy may have changed, do the basic concepts of distributed intelligence still apply? » more
A look at the Smart Grid’s demand sideAutomation industry exec says this is where users can “do something now” while waiting for the Smart Grid to take shape. » more
Making HART communicateHART-enabled process instrumentation is everywhere, but how does it communicate? New chip designs support this time-tested protocol. » more
11 of 28
EC: Ti125 Thermal ImagerHardware - Handheld test, measurement, calibration: The Fluke Ti125 thermal Imager is a high-performance, fully radiometric infrared camera for troubleshooting electrical installations,... » more
EC: Quadron CrossLink Carrier Class J FuseholdersPower - Energy, power interruption: It is a UL508 listed fuse holder for the Wöhner 60-mm System classic busbar power distribution system. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice... » more
EC: GT16 Series HMIHardware - HMI, operator interface, thin-client: Mitsubishi Electric Automation unleashes an innovative HMI solution for design engineers: The GT16 Series HMI, which tightly integrates multimedia and... » more
EC: Series 57 PushbuttonHardware - HMI, operator interface, thin-client: Extra large actuation area with dual illuminating rings to show visual indication of operational state is unique to industry also combining integrated... » more
EC: CP2xxx and CP3xxx Multi-Touch Panel SeriesHardware - HMI, operator interface, thin-client: Industrial Control Panels and Panel PCs with multi-touch display technology. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist. » more
11 of 141
Leader Under 40: Stephen ThomasAutomation Projects Team Lead, ExxonMobil Research and Engineering - B.S. Chemical Engineering, Auburn University » more
Servo motor versus induction motor systems
Cover story tutorial: Choosing between permanent magnet servo motor or induction motor systems depends on application performance criteria. Consider this advice for the best fit. See more information... » more
Cover story tutorial: Choosing between permanent magnet servo motor or induction motor systems depends on application performance criteria. Consider this advice for the best fit. See more information... » more
Integrated HMI and PLC reduces development timeProduct Exclusive: Wago Perspecto CP TV merges an HMI and a PLC into one package, combining hardware and software for logic and visualization, thereby reducing overall costs and development time, the... » more
This supplement could be better than a new iPhoneIndustrial Energy Management: This supplement to Control Engineering and Plant Engineering provides insight into how systems integration unlocks the true value of energy management systems. While... » more
A new era of energy managementNetwork protocol translators and other new technology make it easier for manufacturers to execute strategic energy management programs. » more
11 of 29
Industrial network integration improves productivitySelecting industrial networking protocols, industrial Ethernet included, helps improve production efficiency and quality, with enterprise connectivity. Connectorized networking decreases repair time... » more
Machine vision, ID-reader network integrationIntegrate Ethernet-based machine vision and image-based ID readers into factory networks for more direct communications and less expense. See photos, examples. » more
Brewing more with industrial Ethernet Case study: Saugatuck Brewing expanded beer output fourfold in two years, with help of EtherCAT industrial Ethernet and PC-based controls. See photo gallery. » more
Improve the scalability of measurement and control systemsNI LabVIEW 2012 by National Instruments includes ready-to-run starting points for a breadth of LabVIEW applications and access to new training options that help improve the quality of measurement and... » more
When outsourcing is slow-sourcingEngineering and IT Insight: You cannot improve what you don’t measure, so at the very least it is important that every outsourced support organization includes a measurable feedback policy for each... » more
11 of 18
CIP Safety: Fail-safe communication between nodesCIP Safety, for functional safety applications on the EtherNet/IP and DeviceNet networks, provides fail-safe communication between nodes, such as safety I/O blocks, safety interlock switches, safety... » more
Safety at Work tutorial on networked safety strategiesSafety at Work, a multi-vendor, open technology, simplifies machine safety installations by collecting and controlling functional safety devices like e-stops, light curtains, guard switches, etc.,... » more
Use intelligent servo drives to filter mechanical resonanceInside Machines: Learn how to control machine resonance—the “white noise” generated by machine motion—in servo-driven printing and converting machines. Intelligent servo drives provide advanced... » more
Energy-Saving Drive Solutions Industrial Energy Management: Intelligent concepts cut costs and protect the environment while saving energy; high-efficiency energy conversion and recovery of braking energy also can help. » more
3 pillars of industrial cyber security Engineering and IT Insight: A stable physical structure requires at least three main supports. Three “pillars” form the basis for an effective industrial cyber security system: technology, policy and... » more
11 of 18
Cyber security insuranceLegalities: Don’t think the threat of industrial security breach isn’t real. Now there’s insurance to help mitigate financial risks related to cyber security and other threats to control system... » more
Industrial Ethernet switches: trends, applications Control Engineering International: In February 2012, Control Engineering China sent control engineers a questionnaire about industrial Ethernet switch applications and trends; 375 readers from 20... » more
Modular, managed industrial Ethernet switches Control Engineering International: Industrial Ethernet switches that are modular and managed include the following, according to a Control Engineering China March 2012 article. » more
Trends in automation software: Smarter, safer, more sustainable productivityAn integrated software architecture can help bring a machine online 30% faster. Production engineers can use one control platform for multiple processes and reduce switchover time by 25%, according... » more
Flowmeter trends, applications Control Engineering International: Control Engineering China (CEC) polled its online visitors about flowmeter trends, application, and use; 82% of respondents’ companies are buying flowmeters this... » more
11 of 18
Example: Driving a chain conveyor with a gear motor and VFDIf you’re starting from scratch with a new application, you have to determine how hard the motor needs to work to do the job. » more
Choose the right industrial connectorEvaluate application and environment to determine the best connector to incorporate into an industrial design or upgrade. » more
Low energy Bluetooth wireless protocolBluetooth low energy technology isn’t just another Bluetooth revision—it’s a whole new technology that can benefit industrial communications. » more
Top 10 guidelines to help choose the right system integratorThere are no widely adopted business and technical standards for the system integrator industry, so setting benchmarks and selection criteria can help you sleep better with the decision. » more
Machine vision: high-speed, long-distance communicationsCoaXPress (CXP) is a high-speed point-to-point serial communication standard for the transmission of video data, scalable over single or multiple coaxial cables. It has a high-speed downlink of up to... » more
11 of 43
Your best day today - Engineers get advice on communication, leadershipThink Again: Engineers shouldn’t downplay their communication skills or abilities to be dynamic business leaders, said Michael Allosso, communication specialist, at the CSIA 2012 meeting. Living your... » more
Backlights evolution for human machine interface (HMI) panelsTechnology Update: White LEDs show high-temperature advantages for touchscreen HMIs or operator interface backlighting compared to cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) backlit liquid crystal displays... » more
Automation integration services: Consider workload, risksWhile it may seem logical to keep as many services in-house as possible, factors to consider include workload, forecasting work, schedule, deadlines, expertise, design quality, liability, and risk.... » more
Control Panel Design: Tips and TricksEnclosure ratings, filters, input and output, networking, and safety are among enclosure design considerations. » more
Filling Bottles: Go with the FlowmeterAs bottle-filling machines look for greater speed and consistency, some users move from older weigh cell technology to flowmeter-based systems, but it’s a tough application. » more
11 of 20
Control panel connectivity system add EthernetProduct Exclusive: Eaton SmartWire-DT system adds EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP connectivity options to reach more customers with its lean automation solution, to reduce panel wiring costs, improve... » more
HART technology, partial-stroke valve testing: A powerful duo for improving plant safety Digital valve controllers make the job of implementing partial stroke valve testing programs much simpler. » more
A rational approach to alarm rationalizationWhile it may not be your favorite activity, thoughtful alarm rationalization pays major operational dividends in the long run and will keep your operators happier. » more
Cut Chiller Energy Costs by 30%Industrial Energy Management: Prepackaged retrofit for centrifugal compressor chiller also said to reduce required maintenance and extend operating life. » more
Machine-tool Energy Efficiency: Current Issues Industrial Energy Management: A range of energy consumers, such as pneumatics, hydraulics and lubricant processing, influence a work center’s power profile. » more
11 of 37
Industrial safety firstControl Engineering International: For better manufacturing safety awareness use a high-profile risk management mechanism, says Control Engineering China. » more
Industrial mobility: Information where neededIndustrial-strength mobility is happening with the manufacturing and IT workforce today. Embrace it, guide it, make it secure, or it may dictate how your business will change, suggested experts at a... » more
Mobile workers respond to alarms, view data logsApple iPad serves as remote workstation for graphite product manufacturer Toyo Tanso. » more
Mobile industrial workerTechnologies have enabled industrial workers to get mobile, and there’s no going back. » more
Tips and Tricks: 9 tips for a smarter wireless industrial workforceNine tips help enable an industrial wireless mobile workforce, including standards, self-healing technologies, and the right blend of hardware and software. » more
11 of 38
Intelligent transmitter for electrochemical sensorsInvensys Operations Management's Foxboro 876CR is used for hazardous electrical areas in challenging industrial environments. The 876CR is designed for rapid customization for enhanced flexibility. » more
High output accelerometer for machinery health monitoringThe 786-500-D2 accelerometer by Meggitt is designed for condition monitoring for rotating equipment and can be used in hazardous areas because of its Class I Div 2/Zone 2 certification. » more
USB and youEngineering at 30 Frames: Everywhere we look we see USB (as well as issues that come along with them) - in the field, office, and at home. » more
Nanosensors for machinesBack to Basics: Lower-cost nano sensing technologies are making their way into pressure, position, and motion sensors, transmitters, and power supplies. » more
Ethernet/IP I/O modulesBelden Inc. has released Ethernet/IP modules that can connect to discrete wiring devices via 16 digital I/O channels with universal input/output or input functionality » more
11 of 32
How safe are your electrical system work practices?Survey results show many don’t always follow the rules when working on industrial control equipment. Is failure to wear required protective equipment a foolish choice or an acceptable risk? Clamor... » more
PLC-based Bode loop analysis for industrial controlsTechnology Update: Today’s PLC can do Bode loop analysis, bringing benefits to industrial controls long enjoyed in the electronics world. The Bode analyzer function block described improved the... » more
Exploring robotics for the factory of the futureControl Engineering Europe’s Suzanne Gill reports on a European Commission co-funded project that is testing the idea that industrial robot technology could provide a good base for machining, being... » more
Control programming software strategies for industrial systemsControl programming strategies for industrial systems are changing because of the desire to reuse and adapt programming for a variety of controllers: PLCs, PACs, IPCs, and embedded controls. Control... » more
11 of 43
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- 2013 Control Engineering magazine archive
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