Top 5 Control Engineering articles, June 10 to July 10: PID, ASM-compliant HMIs, PLCs, more

Articles about tuning PID control loops, ASM-compliant HMIs, programming PLCs, PID math, and integrating HMIs with PLCs and PACs were Control Engineering’s top 5 reader favorites from June to July 10. You can catch up here.

By Chris Vavra July 11, 2014

1. Tuning PID control loops for fast response

When choosing a tuning strategy for a specific control loop, it is important to match the technique to the needs of that loop and the larger process. It is also important to have more than one approach in your repertoire, and the Cohen-Coon method can be a handy addition in the right situation. 

2. Creating an ASM-compliant HMI goes deeper than screen color selection

Simply adopting ASM guidelines for graphics does not create an ASM-compliant HMI. Achieving that level of effectiveness involves a range of factors that address how people interact with the control system. 

3. Programming PLCs: Keep the documentation clear and simple

Poor programmable logic controller documentation and housekeeping can lead to unnecessary troubleshooting and downtime. Keep it simple in order to avoid the possible risks and confusion.

4. PID math demystified, part 4

You’ve seen the equations, but have you thought about how those elements work together? Part 4: Feed forward 

5. Integrating HMIs with PLCs and PACs

Understanding the differences among controllers is essential when designing an automation system. 

The list was developed using CFE Media’s web analytics for stories viewed on controleng.com, June 10 to July 10, for articles published within the last two months.

– Chris Vavra, content specialist, CFE Media, cvavra@cfemedia.com.

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Author Bio: Chris Vavra is web content manager for CFE Media and Technology.