19 articles in this category
The 5 Whys explained — how the technique works, a step-by-step process, worked manufacturing examples, common pitfalls, and how it fits with other RCA tools.
The fishbone (Ishikawa) diagram explained — the 6M categories, how to build one step by step, a manufacturing example, and how it pairs with 5 Whys.
How to calculate OEE step by step — the Availability x Performance x Quality formula, a fully worked example, world-class benchmarks, and how to pull OEE from PLC data.
Learn how to read a P&ID — the symbol library, instrument bubbles, ISA tag letter codes, line types, and a worked example that maps a loop to the PLC.
PLC counter programming explained — count-up (CTU), count-down (CTD), and up/down (CTUD) counters, accumulator and preset, reset logic, and ladder examples.
Root cause analysis explained — the RCA process, the 5 Whys and fishbone methods, a worked manufacturing example, and how PLC/SCADA data speeds up the hunt.
FMEA explained — what Failure Mode and Effects Analysis is, the RPN (Severity x Occurrence x Detection), the step-by-step process, and a worked example.
Build SCADA competence with verified free learning resources, an isolated lab, tag and alarm contracts, historian and access tests, failure injection and a reviewable portfolio.
Design a defensible PLC-to-IIoT data path with local control, edge collection, governed context, MQTT or OPC UA, loss recovery, security zones and measurable acceptance evidence.
Design a PLC batch engine with ISA-88-aligned equipment and procedural models, recipe parameters, phase interfaces, a complete mixer example and acceptance tests.
Study 17 practical ladder-logic examples with I/O contracts, scan behavior, timers, counters, sequences, faults, vendor translation and acceptance tests.
Prepare for PLC programmer and technician interviews with 40 evidence-based answers, six practical tests, scoring rubrics, troubleshooting scenarios and 10 FAQs.
Master PLC programming with practical examples from real industrial applications. Learn through hands-on motor control, automation, and process control.
Compare Structured Text, Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram and SFC structuring with one matched example, vendor limits and the Edition 4 change to legacy IL.
There is no universal PLC certification. Use this current, source-checked framework to choose among ISA, Siemens, Rockwell, regional and specialist paths without confusing a course certificate with a professional credential.
Learn IEC 61131-3 Structured Text with a complete state-machine example, scan-cycle model, function-block boundaries, portability checks and tests.
Build a six-state traffic-light PLC program with timers, all-red clearance, safe transitions, Structured Text, an I/O map and a reproducible test matrix.
PLC programming turns an industrial control requirement into scheduled controller logic, verified I/O behavior, diagnostics and release evidence. Learn the complete workflow with a two-pump example.
Learn ladder logic programming from scan semantics to a tested motor program, timers, counters, sequences, troubleshooting, and vendor translation.