A quick-paced modern factory environment requires equally intelligent and high-tech equipment to track, monitor, and control various automated tasks. Because of this, Siemens has developed a series of converters - SINAMICS G120 and S120 - to handle more complex applications. Below, we’ll walk through the specific functionality and uses of these devices as well as the additional safety features built-in to maintain factory security. While we’ll be discussing these specific converters, it is important to understand that the same functionality can be found across a wide range of industrial converters, so don’t worry if you’re not specifically using a Siemens device.

During the past several decades, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have become integral in the automation process. To the uninitiated, artificial intelligence is defined as “a wide-ranging branch of computer science concerned with building smart machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence”. A subset of artificial intelligence, machine learning specifically focuses on giving systems the ability to learn and optimize processes without having to be consistently programmed. Modern factories have fully embraced these two practices and implemented them into the automation process with great success. Below, we’ll discuss the benefits artificial intelligence and machine learning have brought to the modern factory and how these technological feats continue to influence and streamline productivity.

An industrial router is a key tool to meet a modern factory’s connectivity and data collection needs. Through on-demand remote connectivity to PLCs, on-premise data monitoring, and data collection for IoT applications, industrial routers help streamline and condense your factory’s workflow into one finite place. However, there are different models of industrial routers depending on your business’ needs. Below, we’ll explore the distinctions between two industrial routers developed by eWON - COSY and FLEXY - and hopefully assist you in selecting which router works the best for your company.

An open controller (not to be confused with an open-loop controller) is a control system that has multiple processors embedded into the controller itself. Because of this, open controllers are able to run both ladder logic and windows-based applications inside a singular enclosure. The consolidation of these processes allows for flexibility, giving your controller the ability to run, monitor, and access a plethora of applications. Below, we’ll address a few of the most prominent applications of a Siemens open controller in contemporary factories and discuss the advantages an open controller may offer your company in the long run.

Manufacturing companies invest millions in human and equipment in the bid to achieve peak productivity and profits. Achieving monthly revenue targets may be the most vital factor when it comes to procurement of such assets, there are certain factors that can drastically affect the workings of a company. By investing in machinery, tools, personnel, etc. companies open themselves up to greater level of risks. Small mistakes can have wide ranging consequences that can affect the company’s reputation within the market.

A programmable logic controller (PLC) is an industrial digital computer which is used for the control of manufacturing processes. With the rise of new technologies, PLCs are now mainstays in the majority of factory environments and help facilitate day-to-day automation. Because of the significant role of PLCs in working factories, safety is placed at a premium when developing this new technology. Below, we’ll walk through the basics of machine safety in a PLC, the distinction between a standard PLC and a safety PLC, and how a safety PLC can be advantageous to your business in the long run.

Wireless technology is a burgeoning and now nearly ubiquitous facet of a modern factory environment. Perhaps the most pivotal piece to a factory’s wireless network is its wireless controller. A wireless controller is the heart of the factory’s production, providing users the ability to communicate with various material handling systems such as overhead cranes, conveyor systems, and transfer cars just to name a few. This functionality streamlines production and allocates all the pertinent data and information into one place, greatly simplifying things for your business. With all this being said, the setup of a wireless controller can often be a daunting and complex task. Below, we’ll walk through a simplified version of how to set up your wireless controller and provide more details on how they can help your business cut costs, save money, and prosper in the long run.

A virtual machine is an emulation of a computer system, giving the user a completely separate, singular operating system installation on your regular OS. This duality can provide unique benefits to users, especially in the field of industrial automation. Below, we’ll walk through the primary advantages of a virtual machine as well as a few basic tasks that users can employ with the aid of a virtual machine.

Modern factory automation is a complex process. Oftentimes, there are dozens of machines communicating and relaying large amounts of information and intricate processes between each one another. With all these nuances and complexities, it isn’t difficult to see how things can quickly become confusing and/or overwhelming to even the most competent employee. However, the Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) Portal works to mitigate these potential roadblocks by providing your business with a complete range of digitalized automation services, from transparent operation to digital planning and integrated engineering. Below, we’ll walk through the basics of the TIA Portal, the advantages it offers - whether it’s shortening your businesses’ time to market or increasing your productivity through additional diagnostics and energy management functions - and how it can benefit your company in the long run.

Addressing Coronavirus/COVID-19

During this time of uncertainty, Advanced Controls & Distribution (ACD) would like to assure our customers and partners that we are actively monitoring the COVID-19/Coronavirus situation and are taking the steps recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health authorities to help keep our communities safe.