ACC Automation: PLC & Industrial Control Learning
Practical Tips and Techniques
The Iron Heart of Your Network: The Industrial Ethernet Switch. Unboxing and Mastering the STRIDE Industrial Ethernet Switch Did you know that over 40% of industrial network failures are attributed not to software bugs or hackers, but to simple environmental stress?Imagine a scorching summer day on a factory floor, ambient temperatures rising above 100°F, or … Read more
If the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is the brain of an industrial automation system, the power supply is undoubtedly its heart. Without a clean, reliable flow of energy, the most innovative control systems in the world are just expensive paperweights.In the complex ecosystem of an industrial control cabinet, managing power isn’t just about turning things … Read more
To ensure the proper functioning of any PLC digital input, it is crucial to correctly test and wire the discrete inputs. By understanding the testing process and providing accurate wiring, we can guarantee the optimal performance of our PLC hardware. Testing the inputs allows us to verify that they function as intended and that our … Read more
What is a proximity switch? A proximity switch is a type of sensor that detects the presence or absence of an object without physical contact. It uses electromagnetic fields, light, or sound to sense the proximity of an object. This technology is widely used in various industries for automation and control purposes. Proximity switches are … Read more
The Machine Simulator (MS) is part of the EasyPLC software suite. It has many built-in machines that can be programmed. The gantry loader is one of these machines. It will pick up metal boxes from a conveyor and place two on a wooden pallet. The Click PLC will be used to program this virtual machine. … Read more
We will now establish communication using four different methods from our computer to the new Click Plus controller. The click programming software version 3.00 will be used for the communication methods. Click Plus controllers allow you to program them through the micro USB port on every CPU. WiFi (Bluetooth Provisioning) is also available on some … Read more
We will now look at wiring an NPN and PNP inductive proximity sensor to the Click PLC. A proximity sensor (switch) is able to detect object presence without physical contact like a limit switch. No physical contact means that the switch has no parts that will wear out. The life span of the sensor is … Read more
We will now look at the programming and wiring of a rotary encoder to the Click PLC input. Rotary encoders are modern digital devices that have taken over from the potentiometer in stereos and many other applications. This is because of their fine digital control, and they can fully rotate without end stops. We can … Read more
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