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I/O hardware

How can I/O choices help the machine builder at work

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Submitted by kbonfante on Fri, 12/30/2011 - 17:17.

What's an I/O Device? When it comes to the computing world, a keyboard or a mouse could be an input device for a computer, where those input signals are processed, and monitors and printers are the output devices. However, machine builders and discrete manufacturers have many more complex and sophisticated control signals to deal with. There also are many more options regarding the type of I/O technology and devices to choose from depending on the users' needs. Tell us what is an I/O device and how it helps you do your job better.

From 'Machine Builder Forum: Heard On Discrete'

Control system design commitment

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Submitted by kbonfante on Wed, 12/07/2011 - 18:47.

As we commit our control system design to include digital networks rather than hardwired I/O, we want to be sure about reliability and know where redundant network devices are most needed, even if we specify hardened devices for many of the components. We worry that adding unnecessary network complexity and cost will give us after-sales support headaches. We'd like some seasoned advice.

From 'Machine Builder Forum: Heard On Discrete'

When a Plan Comes Together

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Submitted by kbonfante on Wed, 03/11/2009 - 14:28.

Piecing together systems from myriad components, used and new, with varying degrees of functionality can be an engineering puzzle of epic proportions. What's the biggest integration project you've worked on, and how did you overcome the hurdles?

From 'Machine Builder Forum: Heard On Discrete'

OPEN I/O SYSTEMS ARRIVE

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Submitted by dhebert on Mon, 11/24/2008 - 17:26.

As a machine or robot builder automation professional, you've been hearing about open systems for years. But you have probably been frustrated if you tried to create an open automation system using components from competing vendors.  read more »

From 'Machine Builder Forum: Heard On Discrete'

A Good Investment?

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Submitted by jmontague on Wed, 04/09/2008 - 14:01.

Is machine-mount I/O worth it? In your experience, are the higher material costs up front outweighed by the installation, configuration and eventual maintenance savings? Stand up, be counted, and let us know.

Want more? Read our April 2008 article Out of the Cabinet, on the Job.

From 'Machine Builder Forum: Heard On Discrete'

What the Heck Is Machine-Mount I/O?

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Submitted by jmontague on Thu, 02/28/2008 - 19:42.

My machine-mount I/O feature in the April issue of Control Design will explore the recent growth of I/O devices that have moved from being installed mostly in cabinets away from their applications to I/O now located on or closer to production lines thanks to overmolded or otherwise IP-67 protected modules and cables. I'm trying to examine recent trends in this area, seek advice from machine builders and suppliers on the best ways to use these technologies, highlight instructive examples from end users, and give some direction on how machine-mount I/O is likely to evolve in the future. If you have some sage-like commentary and/or specific examples, please let me know ASAP. I can be reached at (630) 467-1301, x465, or via e-mail at jmontague@putman.net

From 'Machine Builder Forum: Heard On Discrete'