12. Encoders: Incremental vs Absolute Position Feedback (12 of 15)
Introduction
In industrial automation, not every feedback signal is a simple ON/OFF input.
Sometimes the PLC or controller needs to know:
How fast is the shaft moving?How far did the conveyor travel?What position …
Read More13. Sensor Troubleshooting: When the PLC Does Not See the Input (13 of 15)
Introduction
One of the most common troubleshooting situations in industrial automation is when a field sensor appears to be working, but the PLC does not see the input.
A technician may see …
Read More14. Sensor Wiring Best Practices for Industrial Control Panels (14 of 15)
Introduction
Sensor wiring is one of the most important parts of a reliable industrial control system.
A PLC program can be well written.The sensor can be the correct model.The machine logic can …
Read More15. Using Sensor Feedback in PLC Logic: Permissives, Interlocks, Faults, and Alarms (15 of 15)
Introduction
Industrial sensors are not installed only to turn a PLC input ON or OFF.
They are installed to give the PLC useful feedback from the real machine.
A sensor can tell the …
Read MoreHow to Represent Machine State in Ladder Logic
RSLogix 500 and Studio 5000 Examples
In industrial PLC programming, a machine state is a numeric value that tells the program what step or condition the machine is currently in.
Instead of …
Read MoreAdvanced PLC Logic Structure: State Machines
Building Professional and Industrial Ladder Logic with State Machines, Subroutines, and Status Codes
In a basic PLC program, it is common to organize the logic using a simple structure:
Input BufferingMode SelectionRequestsPermissivesInterlocksCommandsFault …
Read MoreRecommended PLC Logic Structure (Subroutine)
A Simple and Professional Way to Organize Ladder Logic
In industrial PLC programming, the logic should not be written randomly. A professional PLC program is usually organized in a clear sequence …
Read MoreFaults vs Alarms in Ladder Logic: Industrial Door PLC Example
Introduction
In industrial automation, one of the most important differences a technician must understand is the difference between a fault and an alarm.
At first, both may look similar because both indicate …
Read MorePermissive vs Interlock in Ladder Logic
A Critical Difference Every PLC Technician Should Understand
In industrial automation, two words are often used together but do not mean exactly the same thing:
Permissive and Interlock
Both are used to control …
Read MoreServo Motors, Servo Drives, and Encoders Explained for Automation Technicians
A Basic Introduction for Automation Technicians
Introduction
In industrial motor control, we often work with contactors, overload relays, motor starters, VFDs, and three-phase AC motors. These systems are excellent for running motors …
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