Input & Output Modules of a PLC – Types & Applications

The input/output modules act as the signal interface between the monitoring sensors and actuators, and the controller. Additional they provide electrical isolation, if needed, to convert the input signals into an electronic format appropriate for evaluation by the … Read more

Programmable Automation Controllers (PACs) – Features & Applications

What are Programmable Automation Controllers?

Programmable automation controllers (PACs) are process controllers with an open configuration and possessing the enterprise integration power of a PC-based structure. In other words, PACs are industrial controllers that combine the functionality of a programmable Read more

How PLC Systems are Protected from Plant Voltages

Internally a PLC typically operates at 5 V dc. The external devices such as solenoids, limit switches, motor starters, etc. operate at voltages up to 110 V ac. The mixing of these voltages will cause irreparable damage to the PLC … Read more

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition in Power Systems

The term supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) refers to the network of computer processors that provide control and monitoring of remote electrical or mechanical operation e.g. management of power distribution grid or the control of mechanical processes in a … Read more

Feedforward Control

Feedforward control is based on principle of pre-emptive load counter-action i.e. if all major loads (i.e. disturbances) on a process variable are monitored, and their effects on that process variable are well-understood, a control system programmed to take the appropriate … Read more

Basic Features of Distributed Control Systems (DCS)

In distributed control system, each process has its own separate controller located at the site. These local controllers are interconnected via a local area network so that all controllers on the network can be monitored or reprogrammed from a single … Read more

Why you should replace your old DCS systems with modern ones

To keep up with evolving technology manufacturers need to upgrade their legacy Distributed Control Systems (DCS). This might be a challenging task to undertake and at a cost to the company, but in the long run the benefits outweigh the … Read more

Basic Features of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers

What is a Programmable Logic Controller?

A PLC is a user friendly; microprocessor-based specialized equipment that carries out many types of control functions with levels of complexity for use in industrial automation applications. Its objective … Read more