2006 top 10

Many factors determine what gets read online; you’re one of them. Here’s why I think you helped make the following articles the most popular of 2006, as measured by number of clicks during each calendar month at Control Engineering online. 1. Weblog Project: Baton Rouge Wastewater Pump Station SCADA System.

By Mark T. Hoske, editor-in-chief February 1, 2007

Many factors determine what gets read online; you’re one of them. Here’s why I think you helped make the following articles the most popular of 2006, as measured by number of clicks during each calendar month at Control Engineering online.

1. Weblog Project : Baton Rouge Wastewater Pump Station SCADA System. Unlike the more direct writing style in an application article, this Control Engineering weblog includes joys and tribulations of a real life automation project as it unfolds: good, bad, and ugly.

2. Measure More…Without Wires ties together (so to speak) sensing needs with lower cost wireless options. What would you measure, if doing so cost less?

3. Power Monitoring . This Merck application cover story shows forward thinking on implementation and integration of energy management systems installed and delivering benefits before the last spike in energy prices, with expansion plans underway.

4. Controllers : All you needed to know about PLCs, but didn’t know whom to ask. A book offers help with programmable logic controllers, widely appreciated for delivering manufacturing efficiencies.

5. Auto-Tuning Control Using Ziegler-Nichols. PID tuning can done be one variable at a time (good), or you can use controllers that automate tuning (better).

6. Brushless PM Motors : ‘Big’ on Power, Efficiency. Large permanent magnet ac motors are in demand, offering high power density and efficiency.

7. Linux helps Navy keep high-tech weapon system updated. Many engineers like to see validation of Linux applications.

8. Skilled worker shortage : New program seeks to provide training. I think people click in to see what training less-skilled workers might be getting, so they can stay one step ahead.

9. Need speed? Is there a delta robot in your future? Engineers like speed. And fast robots are fun.

10. Seal of Approval Best Technologies of 2005. Everyone wants to ensure they use or consider applicable technologies of merit before competitors do.

If you missed reading any of these, take a few minutes to catch up-and then let me know what articles you find most useful or interesting. To link to these and 10 others, search Top 20 in the box atop www.controleng.com to find (under “News, Departments, and Newsletters) “Most popular: Top 20 Control Engineering stories of 2006.” You’ll also find links to long-time favorites: “Loop tuning fundamentals,” “How to read P&IDs” (piping and instrumentation diagrams), and relay ladder logic.

MHoske@cfemedia.com


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