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Browse all posts from DO Supply, a global automation parts reseller focused on hard-to-find and obsolete industrial automation products.

Automation Technologies
May 22, 2023

The Basics of Lathing

A fundamental technique called lathing is utilized in metallurgy, woodworking, and other industries to create materials with smooth surfaces or cylindrical forms. Its versatility and worth are advantageous to both experts and amateurs. Several objects, such as bowls, spindles, shafts, bolts, and gears are made using lathes. The basics of lathing are covered in Lathing 101. It covers everything you need to know to get started, such as how to choose the best sort of lathe, what equipment you’ll need, and how to set up your business. Choosing the best kind of lathe for your needs is the first step in learning how to lathe. Lathes come in various forms, each with unique characteristics and advantages. “The Woodwork Lathe \* Preparing a wooden blank for turning between centres \* Craft & Design / Product Design ” by Jordanhill School D&T Dept is licensed under CC BY 2.0 . Wooden artifacts like bowls, spindles, and furniture legs are turned on wood lathes. From small bench-top devices to...

Automation Technologies
May 15, 2023

Automation vs The Great Pacific Garbage Patch

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is one of the largest accumulations of plastic debris in the world’s oceans. Spanning an area twice the size of Texas, it lies between Hawaii and California. It affects a vast region of the North Pacific Ocean. It is estimated to contain 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic debris, weighing more than 80,000 metric tons. This debris ranges from microscopic particles that can harm marine life to large items such as bottles, containers, and ghost nets that entangle and trap aquatic animals. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch has severely impacted ocean ecosystems, with toxic chemicals from degraded plastics leaching into the water column and being consumed by fish and other aquatic species. This has resulted in decreased food supplies for certain species and health problems for wildlife and humans who eat seafood contaminated with these toxins. In addition, the sheer volume of trash has caused navigational hazards for boats and degradation of habitats for sea birds...

Automation Technologies
May 8, 2023

Robotic Process Automation

“Robotic Process Automation – An Extensive Guide on RPA ” by WeblineIndia. is licensed under CC BY 2.0 . Robotic Process Automation (RPA) uses automated scripts, or bots, to perform tasks within a business or IT process, such as transaction execution and data manipulation. RPA saves time and money by automating monotonous and manual tasks traditionally performed by humans. RPA bots mimic human actions and interact with digital systems and software, performing tasks faster and more consistently. As technology advances, RPA is expected to become increasingly popular as organizations seek to streamline operations and stay competitive. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Robotic Process Automation (RPA), a technology gaining attention in the business world due to its potential to improve efficiency, productivity, and cost reduction. We will explore its benefits and potential drawbacks to help you decide whether to adopt RPA in your organization. The rise of Robotic Process...

Automation Technologies
May 1, 2023

Could Codeless Automation Testing Take Over Traditional Methods?

Automation testing is a process in which Software Developers, DevOps professionals, Quality Assurance (QA) engineers, QA testers, and SDETs (Software Development Engineers in Test) utilize test automation frameworks and test scripts along with other tools to automate the analysis of software products or programs, throughout their entire development process. Traditional automation testing methods, such as the code-based approach, are no longer sufficient in today’s fast-paced, dynamic world of software development. To keep up, companies are adopting more agile automation testing solutions like low-code and no-code approaches, which do not require testers to learn advanced programming languages, e.g. Java, Python, JavaScript, PHP, C#, Ruby, etc. As such, codeless automation testing is gaining popularity in many organizations as a means of enabling companies to speed up the launching of new products and features, while ensuring a bug-free user experience. “sikuli ” by Maven@China is...

Automation Technologies
April 24, 2023

Four Steps to Automating Your Factory

Automation has revolutionized the way we do business. For small workshops and factories, automation can increase efficiency, reduce labor costs, and improve overall quality. However, it can be challenging to know where to begin when automating your workspace. In this article, we will explore the steps involved in automating a small workshop or factory, including cost estimates, implementation, and the brands and technologies available. We will focus on several automation technologies, including CNC machines, smart toolboxes, tool vending machines, cobots, cloud-based inventory tracking, ordering systems, and more in 4 steps. The first step in automating a small workshop or factory is to identify the areas where automation can have the most significant impact. Whether it is finding a way to automate the production of a commonly made, yet tedious part, or simply making inventory and orders much more streamlined for the people up front, automation is perfect to take on these tasks. Here...

Automation Technologies
April 17, 2023

Get Ready for the Automation Revolution of 2023 – An Overview of the Latest and Greatest Technologies

Automation has already started to transform various industries and is expected to accelerate in the coming years. The automation revolution, powered by advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), robotics, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT), promises to revolutionize the way we live, work, and interact with each other. In the past, automation was mainly limited to repetitive and routine tasks. However, with the recent advancements in technology, automation has become more sophisticated and capable of handling complex and non-routine tasks. As a result, many industries are now exploring ways to leverage automation to improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency. As we approach the year 2023, the pace of automation is expected to pick up significantly, with more and more businesses and organizations looking to automate their operations. This means that individuals and businesses need to be prepared for the automation...

Drives & Motors
April 10, 2023

Maximizing Your Industrial Automation Efficiency with PLCs, HMIs, Drives, and Motors

Industrial Automation is the use of automation devices and different technologies such as robotics, computer software, and communication systems to control industrial processes and machinery without significant human input. An extensive range of tools is required to implement industrial automation including control systems that integrate different automation devices like PLCs, HMIs, Drives, and Motors Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are used to control and monitor industrial machinery/processes. Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) provide a user-friendly interface that connects plant operators to industrial controllers for machines, systems, and other devices. Drives control the torque and speed of industrial motors, while motors are used in industrial automation systems to convert electrical input energy into mechanical output energy. Industrial automation is increasingly becoming an essential part of modern-day manufacturing and production processes. Therefore, an understanding of...

PLCs
April 3, 2023

What You Need to Know About RS-485 in Industrial Automation

RS-485 (Recommended Standard #485), also referred to as EIA-485 or TIA-485 (-A), is a differential signaling standard that defines the electrical properties of receivers and “bused” drivers used to implement balanced multi-point serial communication systems. The standard is jointly developed and maintained by two trade associations: Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA). Serial communication systems implementing the RS-485 standard can be employed effectively in industrial environments characterized by excessive electrical noise. This is because RS-485 networks make use of differential transmission lines that cancel out most of the electromagnetic disturbances gathered up by the RS-485 signals during data transmission. Also, the standard allows for long-cabling lengths of up to 1200 meters and multi-drop bus systems in which multiple communication devices (RS-485 receivers and drivers) can be connected on the same serial bus. These...

Automation Technologies
March 27, 2023

What You Need to Know About EEPROM in Industrial Automation

ROM (Read-only Memory) was used to store BIOS throughout the early stages of microcomputer development. During the ROM manufacturing process, the manufacturer uses a unique technique to burn in the data inside the ROM. Only reading is possible; no editing is permitted. The user can no longer change burned-in data; they can only confirm its accuracy. There is no room for modification. The information must be discarded, and a fresh copy created if there are any faults in it. The manufacturing line is where ROM is created. It is often exclusively utilized in bulk applications because of its high cost. Later, people created PROM (Programmable ROM) to eliminate the hassles associated with ROM manufacture and updating. In the PROM, no information was created at the factory at first. Users can write their data with the assistance of a dedicated coder, although this possibility is limited. It cannot be changed once written. In the event of a mistake, the chip can only be discarded. PROM has...

Communication & Networking
March 20, 2023

The Importance of Fieldbus in Industrial Automation

According to the study “Fieldbus Technology in Industrial Automation,” published by CiteSeerX, Fieldbus is “a type of communication protocol used in industrial control and automation systems. It provides a standardized method for transmitting data between control devices and control systems, enabling real-time control and monitoring of industrial processes.” (CiteSeerX, “Fieldbus Technology in Industrial Control and Automation Systems”). Fieldbus technology is a widely used communication protocol in industrial settings that facilitates real-time control of manufacturing processes. It differs from traditional RS-232 serial connections as it operates within a network structure that accommodates multiple topologies, including star, bus, ring, mesh, and tree. The Fieldbus protocol enables multiple devices to connect simultaneously, thereby reducing the need for excessive cables and enhancing the overall connectivity efficiency. Another advantage of Fieldbus devices is the presence of a...

Automation Technologies
March 13, 2023

Exciting Upcoming Automation Tech

Every year it seems that technology is growing at an exponential rate, and truth be told, it is. It seemed just 3 years ago that AI wasn’t even quite possible for another decade or so, and yet, it seems every company is implementing it in various applications. This innovation also applies to robotics, and more importantly, automation. While robotics in factories have been around since the 1960s, they are becoming much more sophisticated to fit our ever-expanding range of needs. Not only are these machines getting more advanced, but they’re just downright cool. In this blog post, we’re going to go over the most anticipated technologies in automation for 2023, visiting brands such as Mitsubishi, Fanuc, and more! I would also like to give a quick disclaimer that we are not endorsed or sponsored by any of these brands. “3D Printing Technology @ Siggraph 2011 ” by keepitsurreal is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 . This is by far my favorite category, as well as for many other DIYers...

Drives & Motors
March 6, 2023

The Top Motors of 2022

The motor plays a vital role in any application where rotational or linear motion is involved. In earlier times, some mechanisms involved the use of pulley systems to meet such requirements but due to advancements in technology and the industrial revolution, motors were introduced for such purposes. There are many famed companies and industries which are thriving to be on the top in terms of motor manufacture and design and motor-based industrial, domestic, and automobile solutions. Every year, these companies introduce more efficient, economical, and robust designs. The motors can be AC or DC depending upon the use. All have their drives through which they are operated autonomously. The motors can be further classified as: Synchronous Motors Asynchronous Motors BLDC or Brushless DC motor AC induction motor Hydraulic based motor Stepper motor Servo motor Motors are widely used for automobiles and for domestic and industrial purposes that may include: Vehicles EV’s Drones Conveyer...

PLCs
February 27, 2023

The Top Performing PLCs of 2022

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are ruggedized computing devices used to control electro-mechanical processes, mainly in industrial settings. The PLC continuously monitors the state of connected input devices or sensors and collects the status information as input data. It then processes the input data and makes appropriate decisions based on pre-programmed parameters to control the state of the connected output devices. This way, PLCs can automate a specific industrial process, machine function, robotic device, or even an entire assembly/production line. Initially, PLCs were developed to replace complicated relay-logic control systems in automobile industries. Today, however, PLCs provide a comprehensive range of functions including controlling inputs and outputs, drives and motors, timing and counting functions, communications, as well as processing digital and analog signals in a variety of industrial and commercial applications. According to a PLC-industry analysis report by...

Automation Technologies
February 20, 2023

An Inside Look at How We Automate Around the World

Automation involves using technology to perform tasks and processes without human involvement. This can include various systems, such as mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, electronic, and computer-based systems, which are often used in combination. Automation is becoming more common in various industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and energy, and can bring benefits such as labor savings, reduced waste, and improved quality and precision. Automation is also being implemented in the banking industry and can range from simple control systems to complex algorithms. In the manufacturing industry, automation has been implemented through robotics and automation equipment for tasks such as assembly, packaging, and material handling, leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and cost savings. The transportation industry has adopted automation through self-driving vehicles and drones, improving safety and reducing labor costs. The energy industry has implemented...

Automation Technologies
February 13, 2023

Automation 101 for Beginners: Processes

The term “Automation” describes a wide array of technologies, scientific techniques, and tools used to minimize human input in processes, making them more efficient, accurate, fast, and productive. Automation solutions are utilized in practically all areas of our everyday life, covering an extensive range of applications, from household appliances and consumer electronics to advanced and complex systems powering modern-day manufacturing facilities, transport vehicles including ships and aircraft, power plants, etc. Automated banking solutions are also available. One of the most widely adopted forms of automation is industrial automation, which involves the use of a combination of specialized control devices (such as logic controllers), information technologies, and computer-controlled equipment (e.g., robots) to enhance manufacturing/production processes. Essentially, industrial automation streamlines industrial systems by integrating computers and smart machine tools into multiple...

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