2. Discrete vs Analog Sensors Explained for PLC Technicians (2 of 15)
Introduction
In industrial automation, sensors provide the feedback that allows a PLC to understand what is happening in the real machine. However, not all sensors send the same type of signal.
Some …
Read More3. How to Select the Right Sensor for an Industrial Application (3 of 15)
Introduction
Selecting the right sensor is not just about choosing a device that can detect something.
In industrial automation, the correct sensor must detect the right condition, at the right time, in …
Read More4. Sensor Specifications: Sensing Distance, Hysteresis, Repeatability, and Response Time (4 of 15)
Introduction
When selecting or troubleshooting an industrial sensor, it is not enough to know the sensor type.
A technician also needs to understand the sensor specifications.
Many sensors look similar from the outside, …
Read More5. PNP vs NPN Sensors: Sourcing and Sinking Explained (5 of 15)
Introduction
In industrial automation, many DC sensors are either PNP or NPN.
This is one of the most important wiring concepts for PLC technicians to understand because it determines how current flows …
Read More6. 2-Wire vs 3-Wire Sensors in PLC Systems (6 of 15)
Introduction
In industrial PLC systems, sensors are commonly wired as either 2-wire or 3-wire devices.
At first, this sounds simple:
2-wire sensor = two wires3-wire sensor = three wires
But the real difference is …
Read More7. Photoelectric Sensors: Through-Beam, Retroreflective, and Diffuse (7 0f 15)
Introduction
Photoelectric sensors are one of the most common sensors used in industrial automation. They are used to detect objects without physical contact by using light.
In PLC systems, photoelectric sensors are …
Read More9. Capacitive Sensors: Detecting Liquids, Plastic, Glass, and Powders (9 of 15)
Introduction
Capacitive sensors are industrial proximity sensors used to detect materials that many other sensors cannot detect easily.
Unlike an inductive proximity sensor, which is mainly used for metal detection, a capacitive …
Read More10. Ultrasonic Sensors: Distance and Level Detection (10 of 15)
Introduction
Ultrasonic sensors are industrial sensors used to detect distance, presence, or level by using sound waves.
Unlike photoelectric sensors, ultrasonic sensors do not depend on light reflection. This makes them useful …
Read More11. Limit Switches: Mechanical Position Feedback in Industrial Machines (11 of 15)
Introduction
A limit switch is one of the most common and important feedback devices used in industrial machines.
Unlike photoelectric, inductive, capacitive, or ultrasonic sensors, a limit switch normally requires physical contact …
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