Control Intelligence

Running a motor at 175% load: should you do it?

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 13:34:02 -0500

Sometimes motors can run at 175% of their rated load continuously, but the conditions should be specified within boundaries of the system. When we talk about running a motor at 175% continuously, it means the expected current load or the torque will be at roughly 175% of its rated full load Amps.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, Mike Bacidore explains when a motor should be allowed to run in an overload condition.

Beckhoff USA’s Jeff Johnson explains how mechatronic forces make waves

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 14:46:29 -0500

Beckhoff’s XTS linear transport system, No Cable Technology and EcoLine motor modules are part of the Beckhoff mechatronics portfolio, which is under the supervision of Jeff Johnson, mechatronics product manager at Beckhoff USA.

Brian Romano discusses PLC coding, IT/OT convergence and more

Tue, 26 May 2026 16:49:22 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, Mike Bacidore is rejoined by Dr. Brian Romano, director of technology development at Arthur G. Russell Company.

With more than four decades of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering, Romano's career has centered around innovation, leadership and a forward-looking commitment to advanced technology in manufacturing. His work includes control systems architecture, enterprise connectivity, digital transformation and predictive analytics, even combining them to offer production-as-a-service capabilities by leveraging remote monitoring capabilities.
Beyond his industry leadership, Romano brings a passion for developing the next generation of engineers, serving as adjunct faculty at both Central Connecticut State University and the University of Hartford. His academic achievements, including a Ph.D. in Technology and Innovation, an MBA in Business and Data Analytics, and multiple national honor societies, complement his work as an entrepreneur, a published researcher and the 2022 Division Leader of Year with the International Society of Automation. He is also an ISA fellow.

The reliability and accuracy of machine vision systems

Fri, 15 May 2026 08:29:55 -0500

Machine vision has long been used in factory automation for quality inspections, the final checkpoint separating acceptable parts from the rework pile or the scrap bin. Today, vision systems are no longer just inspectors. They are becoming adaptive, data-driven participants in the manufacturing process, capable of influencing outcomes rather than simply recording them.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses how artificial intelligence has impacted the reliability and accuracy of vision systems.

Uniting engineering principles with 3D tools

Mon, 11 May 2026 14:25:04 -0500

There is a growing trend to use laser scanning to create 3D images of the plant floor, of machine locations and of intricate areas that are congested with plant infrastructure to allow integrators to visualize how they can install new equipment or modify old equipment.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses how to combine 3D tools with engineering principles.

2026 Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award application winner Robert Little tells all

Mon, 04 May 2026 15:56:25 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore spoke to Robert Little, founder and executive advisor of Robert Little Robotics in Raleigh, North Carolina, and the 2026 application winner of the Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award. He will be recognized at the awards dinner during the Automate Show in Chicago the week of June 22.

With more than 40 years of experience in robotics, automation and manufacturing, Little serves as a Robotics Technology Strategy board member of the Association for Advancing Automation. He co-founded ATI Industrial Automation in 1989 and helped grow the company from approximately $1 million to more than $100 million in revenue. Under his leadership, ATI became a global leader in robotic tool changers, force/torque sensing and other end-effector technologies that expanded the practical use of robots in manufacturing.

Following the acquisition of ATI by Novanta in 2021, Little served as president of Novanta’s ATI business group and later as chief of robotics strategy. He now supports the robotics industry through his advisory firm, Robert Little Robotics, where he advises companies on business strategy focused on robotics and automation markets.

Inductive, capacitive and passive IR sensors: what’s the difference?

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 13:43:54 -0500

Whether they’re used for position detection on gantries, for detecting parts for assembly or for innumerable other cases, the use of non-contact presence sensors has been a mainstay of industrial controls since the development of the first versions in the 1950s.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses non-contact presence sensing technologies.

Brian Romano's 45 years of industry leadership

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:12:45 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore is joined by an important figure in the controls and automation world, Dr. Brian Romano, director of technology development at Arthur G. Russell Company.

With more than four decades of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering, Romano’s career has centered around innovation, leadership and a forward-looking commitment to advanced technology in manufacturing. He’s played a central role in aligning machine-building with data-enabled systems before Industry 4.0 was a thing. His work includes control systems architecture, enterprise connectivity, digital transformation and predictive analytics, even combining them to offer production-as-a-service capabilities by leveraging remote monitoring capabilities.

Beyond his industry leadership, Romano brings a passion for developing the next generation of engineers, serving as adjunct faculty at both Central Connecticut State University and the University of Hartford. His academic achievements, including a Ph.D. in Technology and Innovation, an MBA in Business and Data Analytics, and multiple national honor societies, complement his work as an entrepreneur, a published researcher and the 2022 Division Leader of Year with the International Society of Automation. He is also an ISA fellow.

Drive technology: servo motors, inverters and more

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:14:36 -0500

Control Design editor in chief Mike Bacidore spoke Mark Arisman, manager of business development for control products at Nord Drivesystems, about Nord's advancements in drive technology and the digital twin.

Balancing safety and throughput

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:56:39 -0500

The space shuttle had three computers and needed a two-of-three voting system to determine if a sensed variable was real or phantom. This would be a good thing regarding a leaking door seal on the capsule. Safety sensing isn’t a new technology, but it seems that understanding what a safety system function is might be lacking a bit.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore talks about safety systems.

How to choose between Ethernet industrial protocol and synchronous serial interface

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:35:26 -0500

Controls engineers are surrounded by protocols. Proprietary protocols are less common today than before, but they are still around.

In this episode, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, Editor-in-Chief Mike Bacidore discusses how to choose between Ethernet IP and SSI.

Choosing the right enclosure material for fanless industrial PCs

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:38:45 -0600

In most factory lines, the soft PLC and PAC are commonly based on Industrial PC hardware. It is this hardware platform that has quietly become one of the most important components of a factory line’s control hardware.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses fanless controller housings.

PACs vs. PLCs: What’s the difference?

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:38:50 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch and originally aired in March 2025, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses the similarities and differences between PLCs and PACs.

When is it time to upgrade your control system?

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:28:14 -0600

It’s the beginning of the new year, and everyone’s capital budget is going to be reset and revised. People will come out with their five-year and 10-year and 20-year plans, and once again plant management will ask the question: “Can we upgrade the control systems?”

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses when to upgrade control systems.

On-machine sensing: How is it implemented?

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 13:13:06 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses on-machine sensing and IIoT implementation.

Once you’ve finished listening to the podcast, take Control Design's quiz about on-machine sensing and IIoT implementation.

How to monitor and manage the health of hydraulic systems

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:17:49 -0600

Many electrical engineers will ignore mechanical properties of a machine because it’s not their specialty. Control systems engineers cannot do that. Controls require an understanding of the electrical and mechanical interface.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses how to monitor and manage the health of hydraulic systems.

The 4 cornerstones of effective I/O checkout

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 13:55:07 -0600

During commissioning and after, if you hear three definitions of I/O checkout and then get residual failures after a down and an install because no one is going off a commissioning plan, writing up a test plan or adhering to a commissioning plan, then there is a problem.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses machine commissioning and I/O checkout.

The impact of I/O on the interoperability trend

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 13:18:29 -0600

With the advent of common communication platforms, new layers of automation devices became available to control systems on the plant floor.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses the impact of I/O on the interoperability trend.

Safety integrity level: What is it and why it matters

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 14:11:46 -0600

In factory automation, safety systems are no longer the peripheral add-ons of the past. They are integral to the design, operation and long-term viability of production lines. As automation increases and machinery becomes more interconnected, engineers are routinely tasked with specifying safety controllers, networks, sensors and safety I/O devices that carry a defined safety integrity level (SIL).

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore shares why SIL matters.

From 2023 to 2026: Predictions for control systems

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 12:13:28 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, which was written by contributing editor Shawn Cox in June of 2023, more than two and a half years ago, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses the predictions for control systems. Cox’s article was revisited by many as we closed out 2025, and it became one of Control Design's most popular reads in December. Let’s revisit his thoughts from the summer of 2023.

Choosing between motor starters and variable-frequency drives

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:39:40 -0600

Control systems engineering requires a broad knowledge base of many components. Why? Applications of all shapes, sizes, functionality and needs are brought to machine-builder tables, and automation is requested to provide solutions to manufacturing problems.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses motor starters and variable-frequency drives.

How is Ethernet-APL reshaping Industry 4.0?

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:06:00 -0600

Did Industry 4.0 go away? No. It seems that, behind the scenes, the open-source platform community is just working along, developing the next go-around of competitive devices for the traditional automaton folks to keep up with.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses Ethernet-APL.

What is SRCI?

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 13:19:44 -0600

Integration of PLCs and robots has become standardized. Standard robot command interface is a means for robots to increase its interface capacity with programmable logic controllers, but SRCI has been around for a while.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses the standard robot command interface.

How field-mounted devices can be networked together

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 14:30:55 -0600

Field-mounted devices change the way controls engineers approach industrial networking. The shift toward on-machine connectivity can simplify design, streamline wiring and enable strategies like conveyor zone management.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Rick Rice, editor in chief Mike Bacidore talks about how field networking unlocks automated setup and diagnostics.

CERN's FCC and China's CEPC could be the world's largest machines

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 14:37:22 -0600

While China's technical design report for its proposed circular electron-positron collider (CEPC) is still awaiting government approval for inclusion in the next five-year plan, hope is still strong that construction of the $5.2 billion supercollider could begin as soon as 2027 and be completed in a decade, surpassing CERN's large hadron collider (LHC) as the world's largest machine.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore talks about the race to surpass the world’s biggest machine.

A conversation with control automation's Kind Canuckian

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:00:21 -0600

The guest on this episode of Control Intelligence is Jeremy Pollard, who was a 10-year veteran of Allen-Bradley as a technical specialist. Pollard established Allen-Bradley's Toronto District Training Office where PLC-2, PLC-3 and PLC-5 courses were implemented, and more than 1,000 students were personally trained by him.

Pollard has consulted for SoftPLC, Flexis Control, Wonderware and IndX Software and was responsible for product development and direction for PLC support software packages under DOS, OS/2 and six different Windows iterations.

He is the former North American Managing Director of PLCopen, the international association for standardized control system solutions. Pollard has written countless articles for various automation trade publications, and he is our longest-standing monthly columnist on Control Design, where he writes the Embedded Intelligence column.

Pollard holds a diploma in electrical engineering technology from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute in Toronto. He's worked on projects for companies ranging from Baxter Pharmaceuticals and General Motors to Chevron and Labatt Breweries.

Determinism, jittering and load balancing: strategies for real-time control

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 14:00:30 -0600

For many years, real-time control software, whether running on a dedicated controller or an industrial PC, operated on a single CPU core. The runtime scheduler could precisely calculate scan times, and the engineer’s mental model of “one processor, one control loop” held true.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore shares how to handle determinism, jitter and load balancing in multicore control architectures.

What to expect from the automation supply chain

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:11:57 -0500

The combination of technology and market forces is reshaping the automation supply chain for machine builders. Where can you turn for guidance?

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses automation distribution and Control Design's upcoming webinar on the supply chain.

Transforming industrial operations with vision systems

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 14:06:30 -0500

At its core, an industrial machine vision system comprises high-resolution cameras, specialized illumination, image processors and software algorithms. The system captures images or video of products and processes and then analyzes this visual data to detect defects or anomalies, measure dimensions with high precision, verify the presence or position of parts and guide automated equipment or robots.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor in chief Mike Bacidore shares how vision systems impact industrial productivity.

Human-machine interfaces begin at the electrical cabinet

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:32:41 -0500

Industrial enclosures and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) represent a pivotal advancement in automation and control. These integrated systems enable seamless interaction between operators and complex machinery, offering robust protection for sensitive electronics and user-friendly access to real-time data.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor in chief Mike Bacidore talks about the relationship between enclosures and HMIs.

Digital twins usher in a new era for motion-control programming

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 11:12:28 -0500

In factories, motion control systems are more complex than ever. Multi-axis machines, integrated robotics and tight production schedules leave little room for trial and error. For decades, programmers have had to wait until the first machine was assembled to test their code, often discovering issues once it was most costly to fix them.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses motion control digital twins.

The key to state machines in industrial automation

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:49:14 -0500

There are many applications in the industrial automation realm that benefit from state machines. Therefore, it was surprising to hear from an industrial programming specialist who says he does not like state machines and was adamant about their not working.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses state machines.

Ac vs. dc motors: Which one should you choose?

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 15:13:54 -0500

Control systems use direct current (dc) motors for many applications. Many systems displace dc with alternating current (ac) technology because ac motors are more cost effective and lower maintenance than a dc motor with brushes. But are they?

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses ac and dc motors.

The dos and don'ts of troubleshooting industrial Ethernet failures

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 11:40:45 -0500

It has become a de facto standard in plants and machines for interconnecting systems and in fact individual devices. So, what happens when it fails? What would make it fail?

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore network-troubleshoots dos and don’ts.

Echolocation Episode: How have views on RS-232 changed?

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 13:32:38 -0500

In 2023, the Control Intelligence podcast on RS-232 was greeted with immediate popularity, and it remains an often-downloaded podcast episode. Electronic Design, an EndeavorB2B partner brand, republished the podcast episode, initiating some feedback from listeners.

Hear their stories, and revisit the original podcast, in this refreshed Echolocation Episode.

How will the One Big Beautiful Bill Act impact controls engineers?

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 15:33:51 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore is joined by Mike Devereux and Tim Finerty from national accounting and consulting firm Wipfli.
Mike Devereux is a partner at Wipfli in the St. Louis area. He is a certified public accountant (CPA) and certified manufacturing professional (CMP) and the author of "More cash, better machines: your guide to the new tax law". He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants (MOCPA) and the Associated Industries of Missouri. He is also a board member of the Manufacturers Association of Plastics Processors (MAPP), chairman of Allinial Global’s R&D Tax Credit Community of Practice, executive board member of the Manufacturing Services Association (MSA) and president of Manufacturing CPAs.
Tim Finerty is also a partner at Wipfli and has co-written "Money on the table: Taking advantage of the R&E tax credit" and "What comes after COVID-19?" Working in the Detroit area, Finerty is a board member & International Business Advisory Council member of Automation Alley, a nonprofit technology business association and Digital Transformation Insight Center. He's also an Affinity Program member of the Control System Integrators Association, a member of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3) and a member of the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants Task Force.

Echolocation Episode: Talking about STEM with Austin Park

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 16:15:23 -0500

In 2021, Control Intelligence spoke with Austin Park, winner of the first ever Acopian Power Supply Scholarship in 2017.

Park had completed his master's degree in energy resources engineering, Cleantech, machine learning and decarbonization at Stanford University and was working as a machine learning engineer at Gridmatic, where he's now been for almost six years. At Gridmatic, located in the San Francisco Bay area, Austin's responsibilities include designing, extending and improving wind, load and solar models, primarily focused on deep generative spatiotemporal sequence settings; building infrastructure to support model viz and evaluation; fetching and transforming new features; and leading quantification of Gridmatic's carbon impact.

When speaking with Park four years ago, he talked about his education at UCLA and Stanford, how his scholarship benefitted him and his goals for his career in engineering.

Insights from controls engineering pro Tobey Strauch

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 15:15:05 -0500

This week’s guest on Control Intelligence is Tobey Strauch, senior staff electrical engineer, project manager and one of Control Design's most trusted controls engineers.

Over the course of her career thus far, Strauch has accumulated valuable experience with a variety of industrial heavy hitters, including DWFritz, International Paper, Doosan Fuel Cell, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force. She is a regular contributor and columnist to Control Design.

A trip down memory lane: Revisiting a conversation with Matthias Altendorf

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 16:31:51 -0500

In 2020, editor in chief Mike Bacidore spoke with Mattias Altendorf, then- CEO of Endress+Hauser Group. Much has changed since then. Since January of 2024, Altendorf has moved from the CEO role to become the president of the supervisory board for Endress+Hauser Group.

He also founded Bionic Leadership, which applies evolutionary principles to modern management, extending to evolutionary economics and economic bionics. His organization explores the fusion of nature-inspired strategies, technologies and effective leadership in shaping organizational excellence.

During this conversation, they discussed sustainability, sensors, cybersecurity, component interoperability and IT/OT convergence, as well as the impact of those topics on machine builders and system integrators. Altendorf’s insights still hold true in 2025, and his foresight on many topics was spot on.

Using CIP Safety and FSoE to understand communication

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 14:43:58 -0500

The “safety PLC” is no longer more expensive for the hardware. Availability still may be an issue at times, and the programming costs may go up, but the safety chassis is becoming a mainstay.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses CIP Safety and FSoE.

The promise of IEC 61131-3 language portability

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 13:49:26 -0500

At the end of 2023, the Society of Automobile Engineers (SAE) sponsored a report from consulting firm BCG called “The US Needs More Engineers. What's the Solution?” in December 2023. It showed that the United States is facing a massive shortage of engineers.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses IEC 61131-3 language portability.

July 2025 industry news: membership updates, robotics and new facilities

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 13:16:42 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of July.

Expanding robotic applications across the engineering landscape

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:48:35 -0500

The landscape of industry is undergoing a profound transformation, largely driven by the increasing integration of robotics. Once confined to the realm of science fiction, industrial robots are now an indispensable part of manufacturing and production processes worldwide.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses robotics.

Implementing smart control design for safer speeds

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 13:24:51 -0500

Many times, in industrial automation we hear the term “safe speed” in motion conversations. It’s important to define safe speed and how it applies to control design, in relationship to functional safety.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses how smart control design implements safe speed principles.

LiDAR and IO-Link: sensor solutions for controls engineers

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 09:53:54 -0500

Two technologies that have risen to prominence in industrial settings over the past few years are light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and IO-Link. The discussion, popularity and implementation of both continue to rise.

Aaron Rothmeyer, manager, market product manager, at SICK, explains why in this episode of Control Intelligence.

Evolving equipment operations employ advanced industrial panel displays

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 10:51:12 -0500

Industrial panel displays have undergone significant advancements in recent years, driven by the growing demand for better performance, durability and functionality. In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses displays.

Commissioning machine projects with PLCs and HMI

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:59:37 -0500

Commissioning a stand-alone machine project based on control with a programmable logic controller (PLC) and a human-machine interface (HMI) has many facets to the successful implementation of the equipment that the control system is controlling.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, Mike Bacidore discusses machine commissioning steps.

Optimizing industrial control systems with PLCs and PACs

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:30:36 -0500

A programmable logic controller (PLC) is essentially a term used for any controller these days. A programmable automation controller (PAC) is the alternative. It could be looked at as a flip phone vs. a smart phone. However, there are distinguishing characteristics.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses PLCs, PACs and code.

Absolute vs. incremental encoders: when are they appropriate?

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 15:43:26 -0500

In the world of motor encoders, there are two main types – incremental and absolute. Incremental encoders do not retain their actual position upon power-up, whereas absolute encoders do. They both give position feedback, which the motion controller can use to calculate velocity, acceleration and jerk. These parameters are necessary for a fully capable motion control system.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses absolute encoders.

Building the tech and workforce for the bioindustrial economy

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 15:20:42 -0500

Managing editor Anna Townshend spoke with two team members at BioMADE, which is one of nine different Manufacturing Innovation Institutes started by the Department of Defense. This particular group is focused on building the U.S. bioindustrial economy. There are many companies and scientists doing great work using chemical waste products to create new products that we often lack a domestic supply chain for, and the organization is also focused on commercializing and scaling the technology needed to do this work and the workforce to support the industry.

Jill Zullo, executive vice president and chief operating officer at BioMADE, has a long career supporting sustainable products and focused on new bioindustrial markets. Most recently, she worked at Cargill, as interim president & CEO of NatureWorks, a Cargill joint venture focused on biomanufacturing development to replace fossil fuel-based materials.

Tim Dobbs, data architect for BioMADE’s data science team, is a chemical engineer with a degree from the University of Connectivity and a master’s degree in Life Sciences. At BioMADE, he designs, models and deploys data models to BioMADE’s member organizations. He and the technology team at BioMADE provide the unified computational infrastructure for bioproduction-centered collaboration across industry, academia and government.

May 2025 industry news: scholarships, decarbonization and Automate

Tue, 27 May 2025 15:38:35 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of May.

Patrick Bunn: laying the groundwork for future generations of automation

Mon, 19 May 2025 15:31:23 -0500

This week’s guest on Control Intelligence is Patrick Bunn, owner of Bunn Automation Consulting in Birmingham, Alabama. Bunn’s career has included valuable experience with CMC Steel Alabama, Revere Control Systems, EC&S, Hargrove Controls & Automation and Enercon, as well as his volunteer work with younger people in technology, engineering and automation.

He will be one of the presenters at OT SCADA CON this July in Houston, where he'll be discussing industrial network protocols and how to use Wireshark software for troubleshooting, as well as the OSI model, which he wrote a very popular on for Control Design. He will speak at the event on July 24 at 3 p.m.

Stu Shepherd talks robotics, AI, and the 2025 Engelberger Robotics Awards

Mon, 12 May 2025 14:09:25 -0500

This week’s guest on Control Intelligence is Stu Shepherd, co-founder and president of Shepherd Solutions. Shepherd was selected as the winner of the 2025 Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award for Leadership. He will be recognized at the awards dinner during the Automate Show in Detroit the week of May 12.

Shepherd is nearing 50 years of transforming manufacturing in the Americas through robotic automation and capital equipment-related new business development. His past service includes being chairperson of the Robotic Industries Association (RIA) and the Association for Advancing Automation (A3).

In addition to having chaired both A3 and RIA, Shepherd continues as an A3 Robotics board member. He is also a safety committee member and a member of the American Welding Society (AWS), serving on the D16 Robotic and Automatic Welding Committee.

Prior to founding his consulting firm, Shepherd's past professional experience includes automation integration roles at General Motors, a well as sales and leadership roles at FANUC America, KUKA, Güdel and Universal Robots. He’s also held consulting roles at Gain and HowToRobot, which merged in April 2024.

Cabinet-free automation

Mon, 05 May 2025 09:56:57 -0500

The decentralized MX-System achieves completely cabinet-free automation of machines and systems. Beckhoff has bundled more than four decades of automation expertise into the MX-System, which performs all of the tasks and gives individual externally mounted components the protection of a classic control cabinet.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore talks with Brandon Snell, MX-System Product Manager at Beckhoff Automation about all thinks cabinet-free automation.

A conversation with robot royalty Joe Gemma

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 05:02:00 -0500

This week’s guest on Control Intelligence is robot royalty. Joe Gemma was the 2024 winner of the Joseph F. Engelberger Robotics Award for Leadership, but that was just a touchstone along a career that continues to move robotics and automation forward.

Gemma serves on the board of directors for the Association for Advancing Automation, A3, which hosts the annual Automate Show, this year taking place in Detroit the week of May 12.
He’s also past president and board member of the International Federation of Robotics. He’s been the CEO of KUKA Robotics Americas and CEO of Staubli North America, and this month he was named CEO of Wauseon Machine, which specializes in automation, endforming equipment and precision machining, where he’s been since 2022.

What is MQTT?

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 14:04:09 -0500

Message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT) is a protocol. It has a broker and a client and can run over Ethernet.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses MQTT and how it is used in different industries.

Presence-sensing tech for safer automation

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 13:47:49 -0500

Manufacturing is wrought with safety devices. As we progress further along with cobots and mixing humans and automation together, presence sensing becomes more important, not only for operations, but for functional safety.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses machine safety, specifically presence-sensing technologies.

What's in store for upcoming automation conferences and trade shows

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 11:49:33 -0500

Spring is sprung, and it’s time to start making plans for upcoming conferences and trade shows. In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore shares two of his favorite upcoming automation events—Automate and the CSIA Conference—and what attendees can expect.

March 2025 industry news: facilities, VFD integration and Hannover Messe

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:00:56 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of March.

How industrial safety sensors have your back

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 13:13:48 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor in chief Mike Bacidore explains the different types of industrial sensing technologies and why they're critical to ensure safety.

Securely implementing remote monitoring and diagnostics

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 13:20:23 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses remote monitoring and diagnostics, and how they require security.

PLCs v. PACs: similarities and differences

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 13:16:00 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore shares the similarities and differences between programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and programmable automation controllers (PACs).

IPCs, IT departments and software updates: how they work together

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 15:15:19 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses industrial PCs, IT departments and software updates.

February 2025 industry news: robotics, acquisitions and the two Pats

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 12:29:53 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of February.

VFDs and their many advantages

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 13:50:40 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore explains the many advantages of variable frequency drives.

How to restrict PSCs' instruction sets

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 09:07:00 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses which IEC 61131-3 programming languages are best for safety controllers.

Protecting OT data against voltage spikes

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:16:03 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by Larry Stepniak, electrical engineer at Flint Group, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses voltage spikes.

January 2025 industry news: AI assistants, appointments and STEM support

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 11:23:32 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of January.

What is unified namespace?

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:16:50 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore explains what unified namespace is and why it's beneficial.

Radar, lidar, infrared and time-of-flight: advancements in sensors

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 13:51:49 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses presence sensing technology.

Integrating four robots types into applications

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 10:30:14 -0600

In this episode, written by Tom Trinh, senior application engineer of automation at Valin, a subsidiary of Graybar, editor in chief Mike Bacidore dissects four types of industrial robots.

December 2024 industry news: a year in review

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 08:06:00 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares which news stories made the biggest waves in the automation industry in 2024.

Which network protocol works best for you?

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 12:17:00 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore debates the merits of different network protocols.

Uses of wireless, battery-free pushbuttons

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 13:18:39 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses wireless battery-less technology.

Exploring AI capabilities with Rockwell Automation

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 08:54:00 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses how Rockwell Automation is introducing artificial intelligence into its portfolio of products.

November 2024 industry news: expansions, award nominations and Automation Fair highlights

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 15:56:24 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of November.

Machine vision vs. computer vision

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:04:00 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Rick Rice, editor in chief Mike Bacidore explains the differences between machine vision and computer vision.

5 use cases for the uninterruptible power supply

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:16:00 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore shares what uninterruptible power supplies are.

Wireless HMI enables endless control and monitoring

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 12:37:54 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses the uses of wireless HMI.

October 2024 industry news: acquisitions, new facilities and AI

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:02:46 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of October.

Fiberglass, ABS or recycled plastic materials create unique enclosure troubleshooting scenarios

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:34:40 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore shares how to troubleshoot electrical noise in composite enclosures.

Object-oriented programming or ladder logic?

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 13:55:15 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses object-oriented programming in PLCs.

The evolution of the programmable automation controller

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 12:13:47 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore differentiates between programmable automation controllers and programmable logic controllers.

September 2024 industry news: reports, associations and new leaders

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:52:06 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of September.

HMIs in hazardous areas

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 12:57:21 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Rick Rice, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses how to protect HMIs in hazardous environments.

How RFID can be used in real-time inventory management, seamless asset tracking, quality control and streamlined production processes

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 13:35:58 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor in chief Mike Bacidore shares four use cases of radio-frequency identification.

Industrial vs. commercial networks

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 12:20:00 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor in chief Mike Bacidore discusses how industrial networks differ from commercial networks.

50 years of EZAutomation innovation

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 09:16:31 -0500

In 2025, AVG Automation, parent company of EZAutomation, a midwestern U.S. manufacturer and factory-direct purveyor of industrial automation systems and components, will celebrate 50 years since its founding in 1975. The automation technology landscape has changed dramatically since that time, but many of the underlying industry needs remain unchanged.

Control Design editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore spoke to Shalli Kumar, founder and chairman of EZAutomation and its parent company in this episode of Control Intelligence.

August 2024 industry news: events, standards and executive appointments

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 12:20:36 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of August.

Embracing cybersecurity with Nozomi Networks

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 14:18:47 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses cybersecurity-enabled controllers.

Protecting and serving data with sensing devices

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:45:42 -0500

In this Control Intelligence podcast, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore explores networking capabilities with sensing devices.

How RFID continues to evolve in industrial applications

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 11:23:13 -0500

Pepperl+Fuchs’ Michael McCabe explains standardized tags, data transfer rates, capabilities, security and integration

July 2024 industry news: certifications, leaders and obituaries

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 14:45:08 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from July 2024.

When to consider Arduino, Raspberry Pi and other microcontrollers

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:04:33 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore explains how new frontiers in machine control have their upsides and their limitations.

Advances in stepper motors to provide precise motion control

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 14:28:13 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses what makes stepper motors more energy efficient and reliable.

How system integrators are using digital tools

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 11:32:00 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore shares highlights from a panel discussion that took place at the CSIA Exchange.

What are your sensing options in industrial manufacturing?

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:39:39 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses lasers and other position sensing.

June 2024 industry news: new machines, anniversaries and name changes

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 10:07:43 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from June 2024.

The changing role of PLCs in a connected plant

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 11:44:17 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses the future of PLCs in machinery used in a modular, connected factory or plant.

ANCA talks tech trends affecting machine builders

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 13:10:35 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, managing editor Anna Townshend discusses emerging technology and the introduction of autonomous manufacturing for CNC operation.

What do VFDs bring to the table?

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 14:31:03 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore explains how variable frequency drives provide efficiency, reliability and safety in manufacturing.

May 2024 industry news: expansions, partnerships and Automate

Tue, 28 May 2024 11:19:23 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of May.

X-ray vision systems in the manufacturing industries

Mon, 20 May 2024 16:59:37 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses how x-ray vision systems have advanced defect detection.

Understanding the evolution of I/O technology

Mon, 13 May 2024 08:00:18 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses the evolution of input/output technology.

For those of you interested in testing your knowledge and understanding of the evolution of I/O technology after this podcast, visit www.controldesign.com/ioevolution and take our quiz of the subject.

How humanoid-robot development has impacted hydraulic and electrical actuation

Mon, 06 May 2024 07:15:32 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Tobey Strauch, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses the impact of robotic development on other areas of motion.

After the podcast, test your knowledge of robotic development with this quiz at www.controldesign.com/robotimpact.

April 2024 industry news: awards, associations and acquisitions

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:08:26 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, Anna Townshend shares machine builder and system integrator news highlights from the month of April.

Highlights from Control System Integrators Association Exchange

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:37:27 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore, who attended CSIA Exchange in Dallas, shares memorable insights from the event.

Digital twins provide insights for system integrators

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:35:21 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by managing editor Anna Townshend, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore recaps the answers to a Control Design reader question about digital twin technology.

E-stops help protect against human error

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 13:47:09 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Jeremy Pollard, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore explains the importance of reliability and speed in emergency stop buttons.

How remote HMI connects with machinery in hazardous areas

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 14:00:15 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses remote human-machine interface technology.

What are the proper mounting methods for position sensors?

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 14:15:13 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore talks about four techniques used to mount sensors.

Electronic computer-aided design software to boost your design workflow efficiency

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 15:40:54 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Shawn Cox, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses eCAD and how it empowers engineers.

What's new with safety controllers?

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 13:48:22 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, Mike Bacidore discusses what's in and what's out with machine safety.

Why you should choose remote monitoring technology

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:55:26 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Shawn Cox, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses the benefits of remote monitoring technology.

Which systems benefit from industrial position sensors

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 13:22:31 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore talks about the applications of sensor feedback.

Happy National Engineers Week! Robotics dominate recent news

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 08:16:27 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore celebrates National Engineers Week and recaps the week that was in news.

How to bounce back from a microchip crisis

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 15:26:35 -0600

In this episode of Control intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses what organizations have been doing to recover from the pandemic-related microchip crisis.

How industrial enclosures are designed and what they protect

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 15:00:20 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Rick Rice, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses industrial enclosures, their design and the protection they offer.

Why maintenance is a service that matters

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 13:58:37 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses how machine-mounted sensing and remote monitoring have changed predictive-maintenance capabilities.

The three types of proximity switches

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 14:18:24 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Joey Stubbs, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses proximity switches and their roles in a manufacturing line.

Motion-control component roles, types and functions

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 10:35:06 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributing editor Charles Palmer, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses the various components in a motion-control system.

Unpacking what EtherCAT really is

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 13:50:00 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, written by contributor Joey Stubbs, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore explains how EtherCAT unleashes industrial fieldbuses for high-performance controls automation technology.

Emergency stops in industrial safety

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 09:54:54 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses the features, locations and best practices of e-stops in industrial safety.

The legacy and evolution of RS-232

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 14:12:21 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore explains the history of RS-232 and its role in industrial manufacturing.

The ins and outs of a motion control system

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 11:30:11 -0600

Founded in 1985, Advanced Micro Controls is a U.S.-based manufacturer with a global presence. AMCI industrial control products are designed for PLC-based automation systems with specialized position sensing and motion control technology.

Matthew Tellier has been with the company for nearly 30 years, starting off as an applications engineer. He earned his bachelor’s degree in engineering from University of Connecticut.

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore and Tellier talk about motion control and position sensing.

How variable frequency drives compare to other drives

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 11:03:30 -0600

Mike Bacidore explains how VFDs compare to motor starter, inverter or variable-speed drives in this episode of Control Intelligence.

Applications of the servo motor’s power and precision

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 09:05:45 -0600

Mike Bacidore discusses the basics, uses and functionality of servo motors.

Learning about the programmable logic controller (PLC)

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:50:27 -0600

Editor-in-chief Mike Bacidore discusses the history behind the PLC and its applications.

ARMI/BioFabUSA and Downeast Cider House address manufacturing scalability

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 11:26:57 -0600

New England is a hotbed of growth, from turning live cells into tissue and organs to turning apples into hard-cider blends.

Can digital transformation go hand-in-hand with sustainability?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 15:51:42 -0500

Digital transformation can enable sustainability when done in an environmentally responsible way. Responsible digital transformation can be achieved through digital technologies that support resource efficiency — such as energy, water, raw materials and reduced waste; to support data-driven decisions that promote sustainability; to support remote access and collaboration, which reduces the need for travel and associated emissions; and to support supply-chain transparency by identifying and eliminating practices that are harmful to the environment; and to support the circular economy, leveraging artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things to reuse and recycle resources.

Selecting and communicating with uninterruptible power supplies

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 14:41:34 -0500

Uninterruptible power supplies are common devices found in almost every enclosure to protect against outages or disruptions. The uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can vary in input or output ranges, and a fundamental choice between alternating current (ac) and direct current (dc) needs to be made.

Emerson’s UPS knowledge and offerings span the spectrum from mounting suggestions to communication options.

The evolution of integrated safety logic

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 09:10:32 -0500

Two decades after its introduction, machine safety technology keeps getting more interesting. Safety in a machine-control context was born in 1996 with the EN 954-1 standard allowing only relay logic or simple electronics. Although process industries have widely used programable safety controllers since the 1980s, it wasn’t until 2002 that NFPA 79 finally allowed for programmable safety controllers in machines.

Today, integrated safety logic has found its way into a great variety of industrial devices, such as DIN-rail or machine-mounted safety I/Os and servo-drive systems. This proliferation of safety hardware and architectures means machine builders can introduce far more safety functionality in more places to better protect people, equipment and products.

Helping OEMs get what they need

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 08:52:14 -0500

WESCO builds, connects, powers and protects the world. Delivering ingenuity and expertise to approximately 150,000 customers worldwide, WESCO helps businesses run smoothly by providing solutions that can increase profitability, improve productivity and mitigate risk. With nearly 1.5 million products and locations in more than 50 countries, WESCO delivers what companies need when they need it.

Automation software development using DevOps strategies

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 10:32:20 -0500

AUTOMATION Studio is the bread and butter of software development at B&R. All B&R hardware is programmed with this integrated development environment. The mechanisms for compiling, creating installation packages and deploying the software are usable outside of Automation Studio itself (i.e., via the command line). Also, the source files within the Automation Studio project are stored in plain text. This makes for easy integration with DevOps practices.

Life is simpler with absolute positioning

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:23:55 -0500

Mike Bacidore is joined by Jim Stevens, encoder product specialist, Posital Fraba.

Solutions spotlight: Make the most of cabinet automation

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 16:14:37 -0600

While many facilities have started to move some components out of the cabinet and onto the production line, many are still kept in the cabinet. For those that are in the cabinet, ensuring that panel design encourages component cooling and safety are still essential. In this episode, Control Design Editor in Chief Mike Bacidore speaks with Omron Automation's Matt Mohr about the ins and outs of enclosures.

Learn more about Omron Automation: https://automation.omron.com/en/us/

Read the transcript: https://controldesign.com/21545740

Connecting data and unlocking new opportunities

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:47:04 -0500

In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore talks to Daymon Thompson, senior software product manager at Beckhoff USA. They talk about how machine builders can get off on the right foot in the IoT journey, and how analytics can establish compelling competitive advantages to optimize machine efficiency, and even to create new revenue streams.

Learn more about Beckhoff USA: https://www.beckhoff.com/en-us/

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/connecting-data-and-unlocking-new-opportunities

Your power supply has something to say: Smart power supplies share their health status

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 14:34:37 -0500

Many pieces of the control system require dc power in order to operate. A power supply failure for a critical process controller or device can lead to an unplanned shutdown of critical plant equipment or processes. Without critical event visibility, plants don't have the necessary tools to troubleshoot issues before they become catastrophic. Fortunately, there are solutions to these problems. Now, there are power supplies that can give you a window into their health. In this episode, Mike Bacidore is joined by Jay Hendrix, product marketing manager of Connected Power at SolaHD Emerson, to discuss the capabilities of smart power supplies.

Learn more about SolaHD Emerson: https://www.appleton.emerson.com/en-us/solahd

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/your-power-supply-has-something-to-say

Driving value through adaptive manufacturing

Fri, 27 May 2022 10:57:38 -0500

In this episode, editor in chief Mike Bacidore is joined by Derrick Stacey, global product manager for ACOPOS 6D and SuperTrak Product families at B&R Industrial Automation, to talk about transport and process functions, as well as the distinctions between a platform and a group of products.

Learn more about B&R Industrial Automation: https://www.br-automation.com/en-us/

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/driving-value-through-adaptive-manufacturing

Defense-in-depth leads cyber strategy for OT security

Fri, 20 May 2022 16:50:57 -0500

Some manufacturers believe IT departments can protect their infrastructures, but what happens when that fails or a saboteur is able to bypass the surrounding network and connect directly to the automation system? In this episode, editor in chief Mike Bacidore is joined by Luis Narvaez, who is the product marketing manager for industrial security at Siemens Digital Industries, U.S.A, to discuss network vulnerabilities and who's responsible for cybersecurity on the plant floor, as well as defense-in-depth strategies.

Learn more about Siemens Digital Industries: https://new.siemens.com/

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/defense-in-depth-leads-cyber-strategy-for-ot-security

How to unleash the power of data through machine sensorization and digitalization

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 10:11:26 -0500

The Fourth Industrial Revolution with its digitalization and networking of machines has been changing our lives for some time. In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore talks machine data and digitalization, as well as remote monitoring, analysis and diagnostics with Divya Prakash, director of business consulting, Industry 4.0, at SICK Sensor Intelligence.

Learn more about SICK Sensor Intelligence: https://www.sick.com

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/how-to-unleash-the-power-of-data-through-machine-sensorization-and-digitalization

Integrated, intelligent and interactive technologies put the innovation in automation

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 14:18:58 -0600

From batch-size-one production to the implementation of algorithmic intelligence, editor in Chief Mike Bacidore and Mike Chen, senior director of solutions and technology development at Omron Automation, discuss the ways that integrated, intelligent and interactive technologies are impacting automation implementation for today's manufacturers in this new episode of Control Intelligence: The podcast from Control Design magazine.

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/integrated-intelligent-and-interactive-technologies-put-the-innovation-in-automation

Integrated control for simplified robotics

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 13:46:03 -0600

The use of robotics in factories continues to proliferates, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic showcased the benefits of digital technologies. In this episode of Control Intelligence: The podcast from Control Design, editor in chief Mike Bacidore speaks with Omron Automation’s Alex Bonaire about how robotics controllers and software solutions are being implemented today.

Learn more about Omron Automation: https://automation.omron.com/

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/integrated-control-for-simplified-robotics

Warehouse automation: Misumi brings technology to distribution centers and fulfillment centers

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:55:40 -0600

The warehouse and distribution center sector has seen an uptick in automation implementation. In this episode of Control Intelligence, editor in chief Mike Bacidore is joined by Mike Milligan, industry segment manager, warehouse automation, Misumi, to discuss automation solutions that are being implemented in these environments.

Learn more about Misumi: https://us.misumi-ec.com/

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/warehouse-automation-misumi-brings-technology-to-distribution-centers-and-fulfillment-centers

Motion control design trends drive convergence of engineering and IT

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 12:45:05 -0500

Anna Townshend, managing editor of Control Design, discusses today's motion technology trends with ANCA Motion's general manager Paul Bocchi. Bocchi explains how ANCA Motion is managing these trends in its product development as well as what they mean for the future of the automation industry.

Learn more about ANCA Motion: https://motion.anca.com/

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/motion-control-design-trends-drive-convergence-of-engineering-and-it

STEM update: Austin Park 4 years after receiving Acopian Power Supply Scholarship

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 10:22:54 -0500

In 2017, Austin Park had received a bachelor of science (BS) in electrical engineering from UCLA and was beginning his master's degree at Stanford University, where he was accepted into the masters of science (MS) program in energy resources engineering. He was also the recipient of Acopian Power Supplies' first-ever scholarship the same year. In this episode of Control Intelligence, digital engagement manager Amanda Del Buono catches up with Park to find out where is now and how the scholarship helped him reach his goals.

Read about this year's Acopian Power Supply Scholarship winner.

Read the transcript.

Solutions spotlight: The evolution of ACOPOS

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 16:21:55 -0500

Editor in Chief Mike Bacidore and Dave Emory, director of end user sales at B&R Industrial Automation discuss adaptive machines, the future of machine control automation and B&R's ACOPOS 6D.

Learn more about B&R Industrial Automation: https://www.br-automation.com/en-us/

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/solutions-spotlight-the-evolution-of-acopos

A look at Beckhoff's XPlanar motor system

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 11:00:26 -0500

Jeff Johnson, mechatronics product manager at Beckhoff Automation, joins managing editor Anna Townshend to discuss the company's XPlanar technology, how it differs rom traditional designs and how it applies to a variety of applications.

Read the transcript: https://www.controldesign.com/podcasts/control-intelligence/a-look-at-beckhoffs-xplanar-motor-system

It's time to develop new products and services | Clayton & McKervey Part 3

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 20:16:58 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, our host Anna Townshend continues the discussion with two experts from accounting firm Clayton & McKervey. Part 3 makes the case for why now might be the time to develop new products and services—yes, even during a pandemic. Bryan Powrozek is industrial automation manager and Tim Finerty is industrial automation practice leader and shareholder at Clayton & McKervey. These two work closely with many industrial automation businesses and here they share their tips with us about what's available through programs like the CARES Act and other government funding as well as how businesses can focus on their own internal processes to prepare for the future.

Be less reactionary | Clayton & McKervey Part 2

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 12:46:40 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, our host Anna Townshend continues the discussion with two experts from accounting firm Clayton & McKervey. Part 2 goes over how businesses can look at their internal processes, playing off of what we've all learned from the pandemic about cash flow, data analytics, and finding the best talent for your business. Bryan Powrozek is industrial automation manager and Tim Finerty is industrial automation practice leader and shareholder at Clayton & McKervey. The full-service public accounting firm specializes in tax, assurance, accounting and consulting services. If you think now is not the time to think about developing new products or services, improving business processes or exploring new business opportunities, Bryan and Tim have some reasons why some businesses might want to rethink their plan, and some sound advice for how to do it.

What's next after a pandemic? | Clayton & McKervey Part 1

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 10:07:05 -0600

In this episode of Control Intelligence, our host Anna Townshend talks with two experts from accounting firm Clayton & McKervey about what’s next after COVID-19 and how businesses can prepare for the long-term and be ready to capitalize on opportunities post-pandemic. Bryan Powrozek is industrial automation manager and Tim Finerty is industrial automation practice leader and shareholder at Clayton & McKervey. The full-service public accounting firm specializes in tax, assurance, accounting and consulting services. If you think now is not the time to think about developing new products or services, improving business processes or exploring new business opportunities, Bryan and Tim have some reasons why some businesses might want to rethink their plan, and some sound advice for how to do it.

Matthias Altendorf, CEO of Endress+Hauser Group

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 10:16:20 -0500

Altendorf started his career with Endress+Hauser with vocational training as a mechanic, followed by studies, stays abroad and further education. He joined Endress+Hauser’s Executive Board in 2009 and then took the helm as CEO in 2014. Visit controldesign.com/endress+hauser for more information.

Sree Swarna Gutta, I/O Product Manager for Beckhoff Automation LLC

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 11:25:32 -0500

The case for integrated safety systems. Today, machine designers have more advanced safety tools at their disposal, including highly integrated programmable safety solutions. The best offerings include safety solutions that can leverage standard hardware, software and networking infrastructure to implement high levels of safety up to SIL 3 according to IEC 61508 and ISO 13849.