Sensors

Proximity (Capacitive, Inductive), Photo electric (Thru beam, Retro Reflective, Diffuse), Ultrasonic, etc. Sensors can be either discrete (On/Off) or Analog outputs.

How to Troubleshoot a PLC – Ladder Logic

by

We will look at how to troubleshoot a plc racing condition. Two examples are explained in racing conditions in the PLC. The PLC will update only at the end of the program logic. Items set will not happen until the I/O is refreshed. How to trigger events when you want them is discussed. Your control … Read more

Lubrication basics

by

I recently went to a seminar on lubrication basics. Mike Deckert of Flo Components Ltd presented this. So why talk about Lubrication on an industrial automation website? Lubrication is vital in maintaining uptime on equipment. It is often thought of near the end of most automation projects, but it should be a principal component of all … Read more

Here’s a Quick Way to Wire NPN and PNP devices

by

Here’s a Quick Way to Wire NPN and PNP devices I often get asked how to wire NPN and PNP devices to the programmable logic controller. This can be unclear at first when looking at the wiring diagrams. I have managed to destroy a few sensors in the process….. so let’s get started, and I … Read more

Here is a Method That can Help You with Difficult Level Sensing

by

Turn a capacitive proximity sensor into a level sensor. This is ideal for tanks and vessels you cannot drill through the side for mounting. Wrap the bare wire around the sensing head and extend it to the length you need to detect. Insulate the wire using electrical tape, but leave the end exposed. This acts … Read more

Get Rid Of Surges That Are Destroying Your PLC Outputs

by

DC Solenoids are the worse culprits for electrical surges in your system. When the electrically generated field collapses, an opposite polarity voltage is generated. This voltage spike can be high enough to weld the contacts on a PLC output relay. To protect your PLC output relay, use a diode to ensure that the voltage spike … Read more

The Secret Of Getting Rid Of Noise On Your Analog Signal

by

In industrial environments, we often get noise on the analog signal input to PLCs or other controllers. Motors, lousy wiring, etc., can generate noise. Placing a 1- 100 uF capacitor on the input signal and ground (common to the cabinet)  will reduce the noise the input receives. If you have any questions or need further … Read more