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Latest IT/OT Convergence Trends and Best Practices by Rockwell Automation


IT/OT Convergence Trends and Best Practices:

A recent article from Rockwell Automation highlights the increasing convergence of IT and OT in 2024, driven by the rise of smart manufacturing. This integration involves incorporating sensors and connected systems, such as wireless networks, into industrial environments like those used for water treatment and manufacturing. Known as smart factories, this trend merges automation, communications, and networking, offering innovative opportunities across all industrial sectors.

However, with the proliferation of smart factories comes increased cybersecurity risks. Safeguarding OT operations against these threats requires enhanced collaboration between IT and OT teams, as well as a comprehensive, enterprise-wide approach to IT/OT cybersecurity.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

Margo: The new open standard initiative by Schneider Electric


Margo: The new open standard initiative:

In a recent article from Schneider Electric, the Margo initiative was highlighted for its leadership in creating a new open standard for interoperability at the edge of industrial automation. Named after the Latin word for ‘edge’, Margo defines mechanisms for interoperability among edge applications, edge devices, and edge orchestration software. This open standard aims to bring much-needed flexibility, simplicity, and scalability, breaking through barriers to innovation in complex, multi-vendor environments and accelerating digital transformation for organizations of all sizes.

Hosted by the Joint Development Foundation, a part of the Linux Foundation family, the initiative has garnered support from some of the largest automation solution providers globally. Founding members include ABB, B&R, Capgemini, Microsoft, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric, AVEVA, and Siemens. The Margo group invites like-minded industry peers to collaborate and contribute to building a meaningful and effective interoperability standard that will help customers achieve their digital transformation goals with greater speed and efficiency.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

Automation News Roundup for April 29, 2024 (R003)

All the top industrial automation headlines covered in today’s episode of the Automation News Roundup.

Note: We are still producing the longer Automation Morning Show as a member only perk. Learn more about our membership options here.


Watch the Show:



Listen to the Podcast:



Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago

Automation Morning Show for April 29, 2024 (N183)

All of today’s industrial automation news covered in this edition of the Automation Morning Show.

Note: The Automation Morning Show is a member/supporter only perk. Learn more about our membership/supporter options here.






Show Notes:

Thanks to everyone who watched or listened today! All the links to today's news can be found on our sister site, Automate.News, and if you think we missed something, or just want to share a news tip, please do so using this link.

Vendors who'd like to sponsor our show can learn about the options we offer, as well as contact us directly, using this link.

And if you'd like to join our community and support our work, you can do so for the price of a cup of coffee each month at TheAutomationBlog.com/join.

Huge thanks to all our supporters there!


Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago

Premiere at Hannover Messe: Softing Industrial introduces edgeGate


Softing Industrial introduces edgeGate:

Softing Industrial recently unveiled its latest product, the edgeGate, at Hannover Messe 2024. This innovative hardware solution provides a maintenance-free method for transmitting production data from PLC and CNC controllers to edge and cloud-based environments. The edgeGate simplifies access to these controllers, facilitating seamless integration into advanced management systems like ERP, MES, or SCADA for both new and established facilities. It ensures robust communication through OPC UA and offers MQTT functionality for direct integration with IoT cloud applications, enhancing data security with encrypted connections and user authentication.

The edgeGate’s maintenance-free design allows easy connection to controllers without disrupting existing systems. It supports various controllers such as Siemens Simatic PLC, Siemens Sinumerik controller, Fanuc CNC controller, Modbus TCP, Allen-Bradley PLC, or OPC UA Client machine data. With a simple web interface for quick configuration and added security layers, the edgeGate offers efficient and secure data integration for industrial applications.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

First Look: S7-1200 Gen 2 (S2E07)

Today I take a first look at the new S7-1200 G2 (Generation 2) Technical Presentation in this episode of The Automation Show.

For more information, check out the “Show Notes” located below the video.



The Automation Show, Episode S2E07 Show Notes:

Link to the presentation covered in the above episode.


Vendors: Would you like your product featured on the Show, Podcast, and Blog? If you would, please contact me at: https://theautomationblog.com/contact

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago

Securing The Connected Enterprise by Rockwell Automation


Securing The Connected Enterprise:

According to a recent article from Rockwell Automation, cyberattacks targeting industrial organizations are relentless and increasingly sophisticated. This situation presents a significant challenge for these organizations in maintaining compliance with evolving regulations, such as the IEC 62443-3-3 certification. Achieving this certification was a collaborative effort, reflecting a comprehensive response to the escalating cyber threats facing industrial sectors. For organizations like ours, the question is not “if” but “when” a cyberattack will occur.

Rockwell Automation, alongside partners like Cisco, Claroty, and Dragos, has been providing OT and IT cybersecurity support to industrial organizations for years. With acquisitions of companies like Avnet, Oylo, and Verve Industrial Protections, Rockwell Automation has deepened its understanding of the unique challenges in protecting OT environments. Pursuing the IEC 62443-3-3 certification was a proactive step to adapt to this growing threat landscape, ensuring the safety of both Rockwell Automation and its customers.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

Automation News Roundup for April 26, 2024 (R002)

All the top industrial automation headlines covered in today’s episode of the Automation News Roundup.

Note: We are still producing the longer Automation Morning Show, but due to the expense of producing that show it has now become a member only perk. Learn more about our membership options here.


Watch the Show:



Listen to the Podcast:



Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago

Industrial Computers and Industrial Monitors Specifications by Rockwell Automation


Industrial Computers and Industrial Monitors Specifications:

According to an article from Rockwell Automation, their industrial computers are designed to meet the specific needs of industrial environments, addressing physical limitations and requirements. The range includes non-display computers with options in form factors, RAM, storage, performance, operating temperatures, and optical drives.

Integrated display computers are also available, offering different screen sizes, storage options, and performance packages. Rockwell Automation’s extreme environment computers are designed for industries such as oil and gas, chemicals, and mining, where potentially explosive materials are present and hardware often suffers from wear.

These industrial computers are built to withstand harsh temperature extremes and are IECEx, ATEX, and UL rated for hazardous locations, providing a reliable solution for challenging industrial environments.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

New Products – April 2024 by Profinews


CDHD2S PN:

According to an article from Profinews, Servotronix has introduced the CDHD2S PN, a new servo drive featuring high performance and a PROFINET interface. The servo drive incorporates an adaptive non-linear control algorithm designed to enhance servo performance in high-precision motion applications. The current loop design enables a frequency response of 3-5 kHz. Additionally, the drive includes a position compare output, facilitating rapid synchronization of actual position with the machine process. Moreover, the drive can directly control the operation of triggering devices like cameras, barcode readers, or printing heads.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

Automation Morning Show for April 26, 2024 (N182)

All of today’s industrial automation news covered in this edition of the Automation Morning Show.

Note: Due to the time and expense it takes to produce this show it has now become a member/supporter only perk. Learn more about our membership/supporter options here.






Show Notes:

Thanks to everyone who watched or listened today! All the links to today's news can be found on our sister site, Automate.News, and if you think we missed something, or just want to share a news tip, please do so using this link.

Vendors who'd like to sponsor our show can learn about the options we offer, as well as contact us directly, using this link.

And if you'd like to join our community and support our work, you can do so for the price of a cup of coffee each month at TheAutomationBlog.com/join.

Huge thanks to all our supporters there!


Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago

OptixPanel Compact Operator Panel by Rockwell Automation


OptixPanel Compact Operator Panel:

 

In a recent article from Rockwell Automation, the Allen-Bradley® OptixPanel™ Compact has been highlighted for its cutting-edge features, driven by an NXP® i.MX 8M Mini Quad ARM Cortex A53 1.6 GHz processor. This processor empowers the panel to deliver high-performance Human Machine Interface (HMI) applications, offering visualization and control capabilities. It ensures full industrial interoperability for Machine-to-Machine (M2M) scenarios and seamlessly interfaces with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems through native support for the OPC UA and MQTT protocols, enabling communication with cloud infrastructures.

Moreover, the OptixPanel™ Compact is part of a holistic solution that includes FactoryTalk® Optix™ software, a collaborative, cloud-based platform. This platform provides flexibility, scalability, and openness for visualization and Edge Computing applications, enhancing its adaptability across various industrial environments. The system is designed with various bezel options to suit different user preferences and requirements, and it incorporates features such as FactoryTalk® Remote Access™ software for remote assistance.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

Automation News Roundup for April 25, 2024 (R001)

All the top industrial automation headlines covered in today’s episode of the Automation News Roundup.

Note: We are still producing the longer Automation Morning Show, but due to the expense of producing that show it has now become a member only perk. Learn more about our membership options here.


Watch the Show:



Listen to the Podcast:



Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago

Kollmorgen expands AKD2G versatility with launch of new synchronized communication protocols


Kollmorgen AKD2G:

According to an article from Kollmorgen, the AKD2G servo drive update enables synchronized motion between multiple drives using various control architectures, making it ideal for applications requiring precise coordination across multiple motion axes. The AKD2G drive offers industry-leading power density in a compact package, making it easy to mount, with options for one- and two-axis variants. Engineers can utilize single-cable Smart Feedback Device (SFD) or HIPERFACE® DSL connections, or choose from a wide range of other feedback devices. Optional SafeMotion®™ Monitor (SMM) firmware with a safety level of SIL3/PLe is available to meet functional safety needs and enable a broader range of applications.

James Davison, Senior VP/GM at Kollmorgen, stated, “The AKD2G servo drive is an ideal option for automation designers and OEMs optimizing their designs, offering increased performance, a smaller footprint, and greater design flexibility.” The AKD2G, when paired with AKM2G motors, is part of the 2G Motion System, a suite of motion products designed to work together for easy setup and higher performance. Engineers can also benefit from the drive’s compatibility with a wider range of controllers, feedback devices, or other motors as needed.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

Automation Morning Show for April 25, 2024 (N181)

All of today’s industrial automation news covered in this edition of the Automation Morning Show.

Note: Due to the time and expense it takes to produce this show it has now become a member/supporter only perk. Learn more about our membership/supporter options here.






Show Notes:

Thanks to everyone who watched or listened today! All the links to today's news can be found on our sister site, Automate.News, and if you think we missed something, or just want to share a news tip, please do so using this link.

Vendors who'd like to sponsor our show can learn about the options we offer, as well as contact us directly, using this link.

And if you'd like to join our community and support our work, you can do so for the price of a cup of coffee each month at TheAutomationBlog.com/join.

Huge thanks to all our supporters there!


Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago

Balluff adds features to code reader with IO-Link


Balluff adds features to code reader with IO-Link:

According to an article from Balluff, the IDENT sensors, introduced in 2023, offer advanced code reading capabilities, including 1D and 2D barcode scanning and direct part marked code recognition. These sensors also feature built-in condition monitoring functions and support IO-Link integration, eliminating the need for additional Ethernet drops and IP addresses.

Additionally, the IDENT sensors provide insights into machine and application environments by monitoring various parameters such as temperature, vibration, humidity, and signal quality. This data is transmitted every 60 seconds and can be accessed through a web browser dashboard without requiring additional software. The sensors use the MVTec HALCON algorithm, offering code quality metrics and a choice of interfaces including REST API, MQTT, IO-Link, and TCP/UDP, making them suitable for diverse industrial applications.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

TAP Episode 200: Office Tour, Reflections, and Sincere Thanks! (P200)

This week I give a tour of our new offices, share some reflections after 200 episodes, and express my thanks to YOU my audience, all in this episode of The Automation Podcast.

For more information, check out the “Show Notes” located below the video.


Watch The Automation Podcast from The Automation Blog:


Listen to The Automation Podcast from The Automation Blog:


The Automation Podcast, Episode 200 Show Notes:

Special thanks to all of you my viewers and listeners who help us break 154K views/download in 2023. I’ll have more information about our new community in the coming days.

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago

W10 Photoelectric Proximity Sensor by SICK


W10 Photoelectric Proximity Sensor:

In a recent article from SICK, the W10 photoelectric proximity sensor was highlighted for its exceptional versatility and adaptability in application design. This sensor has become a valuable tool across various industrial and innovation sectors. One of its key strengths lies in its ability to detect objects with different surface properties such as gloss, color, or structures, making it highly useful in factory and logistics automation.

The W10 sensor is renowned for its reliability and robustness, which are essential qualities for applications requiring precise and dependable object detection. What sets the W10 apart is its status as the world’s first laser triangulation sensor with an intuitive user experience through its touchscreen interface. By eliminating the need for traditional setting elements like slide switches or rotary knobs, the sensor allows operators to easily select, adjust, and save settings such as speed, operating modes, and limit values.

Additionally, the W10 sensor offers features like screen lock for security and compatibility with IO-Link for easy configuration, ensuring a seamless user experience. Its precise laser triangulation technology enables reliable detection over short and long ranges, making it ideal for applications requiring precise object detection and positioning, even at high speeds.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

Festo’s Smart Proximity Switch Commissions Itself


Smart Proximity Switch Commissions Itself:

In a recent article from Festo, Pro-Line Automation Systems in Woodbridge, ON, has made significant advancements in their CNC fabrication systems for window and door manufacturing. By incorporating Festo’s SDBT-MSX, the world’s first proximity switch with auto teach-in, Pro-Line has streamlined their processes, eliminating the need for a previously required manual tuning step after commissioning. This innovation has saved valuable time during the final operational readiness process.

Pro-Line, experiencing a surge in demand alongside its North American customers, is playing a crucial role in residential construction efforts. The company’s machines are essential for crafting windows in various residential structures, from single-family homes to high-rise buildings. With sales nearly doubling over the past five years, owner Vinode Ramnauth is spearheading the company’s expansion into the US market, with the goal of doubling sales yet again within the next two years. Pro-Line’s commitment to adopting new technologies that enhance staff efficiency is evident in its status as the largest user of the SDBT-MSX in North America.

For more information, visit this link to the original article:



Posted by Julius Frago
Content Creator and Writer

Have a question? Join our community of pros to take part in the discussion! You'll also find all of our automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Sponsor and Advertise: Get your product or service in front of our 75K followers while also supporting independent automation journalism by sponsoring or advertising with us! Learn more in our Media Guide here, or contact us using this form.

Julius Frago
 

Automation Morning Show for April 24, 2024 (N180)

All of today’s industrial automation news covered in this edition of the Automation Morning Show.

Note: Due to the time and expense it takes to produce this show it has now become a member/supporter only perk. Learn more about our membership/supporter options here.


Watch the Show:


Listen to the Podcast:



Show Notes:

Thanks to everyone who watched or listened today! All the links to today's news can be found on our sister site, Automate.News, and if you think we missed something, or just want to share a news tip, please do so using this link.

Vendors who'd like to sponsor our show can learn about the options we offer, as well as contact us directly, using this link.

And if you'd like to join our community and support our work, you can do so for the price of a cup of coffee each month at TheAutomationBlog.com/join.

Huge thanks to all our supporters there!


Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

Julius Frago