In the era of Smart Manufacturing, machines must do more than just execute tasks. They must communicate. As an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), choosing how to move data from a PLC to a cloud server or a local database is a critical design decision. While MQTT and OPC UA both facilitate data transfer, their underlying architectures serve very different purposes within industrial automation.
In the complex world of industrial automation, troubleshooting dead circuits requires a shift in strategy. While voltage and current are the go-to metrics for live systems, they become irrelevant once power is disconnected. This is where resistance testing becomes the primary diagnostic tool for technicians maintaining PLC inputs, motor coils, and sensor loops.
Honeywell and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) recently announced a strategic partnership to accelerate autonomous operations across industrial and building sectors. This collaboration bridges the traditional gap between operational technology (OT) and enterprise IT. Initially launching in India, the initiative will soon expand to the United States and Middle East markets.
The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently designated Schneider Electric’s Wuhan facility as a Global Lighthouse for Talent. This prestigious recognition highlights the site's innovative approach to workforce transformation in the age of industrial automation. Currently, it stands as one of only three facilities worldwide to hold this specific distinction.
The landscape of industrial automation is undergoing a profound transformation. Once limited to light-duty tasks and power-clamping, collaborative robots (cobots) have matured into robust, intelligent assets. As we navigate 2026, the integration of PLC systems, advanced control systems, and artificial intelligence is redefining what these machines can achieve on the factory floor and beyond.
Industrial leaders face a growing dilemma: how to modernize aging infrastructure without risking production downtime. ABB recently introduced its Automation Extended programme to bridge this gap. By integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) directly into existing ecosystems, this initiative transforms traditional industrial automation into a dynamic, future-ready framework.
