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Control Platforms Resource Center

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Controls engineers need a variety of information on topics such as programmable logic controllers, programmable automation controllers, PC-based control, embedded controls, computer numeric control, control software, network strategies, relays and switches.

Programmable logic controllers have been the staple of machine automation for decades and provide the majority machine logic solutions currently in operation.

PC-based controls offer the advantages of inherent data communication based on today’s Internet-centric TCP/IP protocols, with the ability to perform critical tasks in conjunction with an accompanying real-time operating systems, RTOS, kernel or a plug-in motion controller card.

Newer programmable automation controllers try to offer the best features of both control platforms.

Embedded controls can take the form of single-board computers with some application-specific capabilities or as the emerging field programmable gate array, FPGA, hardware that offers flexible customization and versatility.

Timely news, back-to-basics primers, feature articles, technical white papers and descriptions of the latest products all provide valuable insights that can be used in designing and building machine controls.

White Papers: In Depth Research

Back to Basics: The Power of the Loop
Author: Otek
Posted: 04/18/2013
The current loop is probably one of the most underestimated data transmission and control method. It's so simple that we tend to ignore it in favor of more complex and sophisticated methods. This white paper will show that you don't have to tear down your current loop and use its power to upgrade to digital technology. Just replace the old analog meter!

Why Migrate Legacy Control Systems?
Author: Honeywell
Posted: 04/08/2013
Every distributed control system (DCS) at some point requires upgrading to ensure reliable operation and to leverage the latest technology. However, justifying automation projects today is extraordinarily difficult — any system being replaced must provide a superior business value proposition.

A well-planned and executed migration to a modern control system not only improves plant availability and reliability, but can also provide a more flexible production platform. Flexibility is the key battleground on which companies seeking to make the most of business opportunities will thrive.

Honeywell offers a wide range of migration options for control systems. These migration solutions are designed to provide access to up-to-date technology without having to "rip and replace" the entire legacy hardware and software system.

With Honeywell's investment protection strategy, plants continue to operate and be supported on their legacy equipment. In this white paper, learn how the transition to new technology can be executed with practically no change to physical wiring and intellectual property. The availability of multiple controllers on a single network also provides freedom of choice for new installations or upgrades.

Optimizing PLC Network Performance and Management
Author: Gary Chang and Mark Wu, Moxa
Posted: 03/26/2013
Traditional fieldbus networks were, and some still are, isolated automation systems which require extensive local monitoring and routine onsite maintenance. To increase productivity and reduce operating costs, many manufacturers and plant operators have deployed industrial Ethernet to converge remotely isolated fieldbus systems for centralized control and monitoring.

In addition to systems interoperability, integration of fieldbus segments and industrial Ethernet networks will require the optimization of PLC network performance and manageability. This white paper will discuss how three facets of PLC network optimization can ensure high network availability, simplify network monitoring and configuration, and maximize network flexibility.

Assembled vs. Overmolded Cordsets
Author: Turck
Posted: 03/05/2013
Connectivity serves as a cornerstone for industrial automation environments, delivering continuous production, data acquisition and communication throughout the enterprise. With the need to monitor, control and communicate with more devices, such as sensors, safety devices and PLCs in a vast range of applications, connectivity solutions must be able to withstand harsher environments to satisfy the current demands for constant production visibility and control.

Cordsets provide the foundation for this connectivity, and to meet today's application requirements, cordsets must be able to adapt to difficult environments and challenging applications. Assembled cordsets are a common connectivity solution, however, in-the-field assembly makes them vulnerable to performance deficiencies, such as mis-wiring and moisture ingress, which can impact the operation of the entire application.

To overcome these challenges, cordsets have progressed to include overmolded options. This improves the integrity of the connection by eliminating the need to assemble connectors and the associated errors that occur with assembled solutions. Overmolding can improve the durability of the cordset, as well as reduce the total cost of ownership by improving uptime and decreasing labor and maintenance, improving overall performance for an enhanced application accuracy and efficiency.

This white paper will discuss the differences between assembled and overmolded cordsets, offering a comparison of the technologies and providing a detailed description of the advantages offered with overmolded cordsets.

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