Bill Dehner
Articles
Product advice on easy, affordable modern control, IIoT implementation
Next-generation programmable logic controller (PLC) platforms inexpensively and securely deliver reliable and familiar functionality for basic automated control, combined with advanced features like Wi-Fi and data logging, and increased security measures for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications, according to a company with a Control Engineering Engineers’ Choice Award product.
Industrial access on the go
Adoption of industrial automation mobile access continues to increase, as technologies improve, and user concerns are addressed.
Exploit IIoT to improve operations
Off-the-shelf IIoT solutions use intelligent routers and associated cloud services
Automation built for resiliency
Resilient automation products and practices are a necessity for most industrial applications using sensors, wiring, power distribution, controllers, networks, actuators and software integrated into an automation system.
How to choose between managed and unmanaged switches
Industrial automation systems need hardened networking equipment to deliver required performance and cybersecurity, and designers also must consider whether unmanaged switches are sufficient, or if the step up to managed switches is warranted
Embedded HMIs excel in automation applications
Delivering the right human-machine interface (HMI) experience is critical whenever people need to interact with automation.
Open-source benefits for industrial controllers
New controller options make it possible to add open-source features to industrial-grade automation. Think of industrial versions of Raspberry Pi or Arduino controllers.
Configure intuitive HMI screens to simplify automation
Design standards and best practices for human-machine interfaces (HMIs) continue evolving, but simplicity and clarity never go out of style.
Benefits of connecting a PLC to the internet
Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are now gaining information technology (IT) abilities to interact directly with the internet, creating new automation and information possibilities.
Choosing the right HMI
Human-machine interfaces (HMIs) are available with many hardware and software features and users should work backwards from the target application to make sure all needs are addressed.
Specifying performance instead of parts
Specifying performance instead of parts when purchasing machines and process skids will cut costs, reduce lead time and guarantee operation.
Controller embeds programming efficiency
Cover Story: PLC programming: Selecting the right controller and accompanying programming software adds efficiency to the controller programming process.
Efficient controls require feedback
Control design: Closing the feedback loop with the appropriate sensors improves equipment and process efficiency. Identify areas where feedback can improve and optimize machine operation and process control. Carefully select from available process control and measurement sensors, and ensure each loop is programmed with the right parameters. See 7-point feedback selection checklist.