Frank Lamb
Frank Lamb is founder and owner of Automation Consulting LLC and member of the Control Engineering editorial advisory board.
Articles
PLC programming language fundamentals for improved operations, maintenance
Programmable logic controller (PLC) programming languages help keep manufacturing operations running smoothly. Learn about the five types of PLC programming languages and how they’re used.
Motion control and robotics troubleshooting and maintenance advice
Motion control and robotics troubleshooting requires the user to understand many ways machines operate.
Motor control maintenance and troubleshooting best practices, advice
Electric motors are used to drive actuators and machines in industry and there are many aspects to consider to keep them operating efficiently.
The fundamentals of troubleshooting in industrial automation
Maintaining and troubleshooting industrial equipment requires a certain level of mechanical and electrical knowledge, but it starts with common sense and understanding the fundamentals of automation.
4 critical things to know about PLC programming in 3 minutes
Control Engineering video explains 3 important things to know about PLC programming and adds another you may not have considered. Links to other PLC programming resources.
Original equipment effectiveness’ role in productive manufacturing
Original equipment effectiveness (OEE) can be used as a gauge to determine how effective and productive a manufacturing plant is.
PLC tag and address naming conventions
Control programming tutorial: Learn about tag templates, common factory automation tag abbreviations, process control tag abbreviations, and five tag and address naming tips.
Other PLC programming languages
Ladder logic is commonly used in the U.S. for programmable logic controllers (PLCs), but other languages are better suited for some programming applications. See sample PLC code in five languages.
How simulation helps automation and controls
The controls often must be programmed for automated machinery and systems before hardware exists, but controls engineers can use simulations to test syntax, proper tag linking and addressing, and code functionality.
What is machine vision, and how can it help?
Understanding how machine vision works will help you see if machine vision will clear up specific application difficulties in manufacturing or processing.