Automation, Controls and Technology News

    When it comes to powering various types of electronic equipment, it’s important to understand the difference between switching and linear power supplies. Both types of power supplies have their own particular benefits that make them suitable for different applications.   Switching power supplies are more efficient than linear power supplies, primarily because they use high-frequency switching to convert the AC power from the wall outlet into the DC power used by devices such as computers. The switching mechanism allows them to maintain output voltage at higher currents and higher frequencies than linear power supplies, resulting in much more...

  Programmable controls are quickly becoming commonplace in many small factory operations. Properly implemented, these devices can provide significant improvements in efficiency, safety, and production output. However, without a working knowledge of how to correctly use and program these devices, a factory may find itself in a myriad of operational and safety issues. Therefore, this article will provide a brief overview of how to properly implement and use programmable controls in a small factory environment to maximize their many benefits. The first step in properly utilizing programmable controls is to properly select the correct control for the desired application. Programmable...

 Just-in-time manufacturing, or JIT manufacturing, is a system for delivering production materials and components at the same time that they are needed on the production line. This method eliminates the need for large inventories and excessive storage, resulting in lower production costs and improved production efficiency. JIT is used in several industries, including automotive, electronics, and food manufacturing.  Despite its advantages, JIT manufacturing is not without its weaknesses. The first major concern is that it requires a continuous flow of parts and materials. For example, if components for a product must be delivered to the production floor the same day,...

Rockwell’s New Armor Powerflex Variable Frequency Drive Rockwell Automation introduced its Armor PowerFlex variable frequency drive (VFD) for the global market. The Armor PowerFlex VFD offers local and remote monitoring and control capabilities, as well as an optional embedded safety feature to help protect people from potential harm when working with industrial machinery. Rockwell Automation introduced its Armor PowerFlex variable frequency drive (VFD) for the global market. The Armor PowerFlex VFD offers local and remote monitoring and control capabilities, as well as an optional embedded safety feature to help protect people from potential harm when working with industrial machinery. The...

PLC Allen Bradley The ControlLogix platform is a series of programmable logic controllers manufactured by Rockwell Automation. The ControlLogix platform is a series of programmable logic controllers manufactured by Rockwell Automation. The platform's goal is to offer a central automation solution that can perform tasks such as safety, motion, batch processing and discrete manufacturing from one controller or system. A programmable logic controller is an industrial digital computer designed for use in an industrial environment. It uses simple programming languages that are employed to control automated machinery and processes. These devices typically have input and output terminals to which switches,...