Let's see if roses can edit.

Yes I can!!

When expanding out of panel building into more complex machine control builds, machine builders are encouraged to upgrade from old and basic electrical schematic software to a more integrated tool set. What are some of the important functions to look for in a good electrical CAD program including how to judge databases, training requirements, upgrades and support?

We experience the world in analog. When you see something with your eyes, for example, that is an analog experience. Analog has its merits, but when you’re garnering data from a machine operation, the application will dictate whether to go analog or digital. We live in a digital society. Decisions often are made to install a digital solution without giving the analog solution consideration because we assume that the digital meter is more advanced. When obsolescence of components becomes an issue, it might be a perfect time to decide what sort of display is best for your application.

 Read our Real Answers article How Much Information Is Enough?

Well, maybe not Python, but how do you define a higher-level language? Is it based on how much the programmer is isolated from the actual code? Is it about a more-powerful control capability? There's little consensus on what a higher-level language is for more complex applications for discrete/machine control. Is it C#, C++ and scripting? Are there others in serious play? What can they do that 61131 languages, for example, can't? Does most automation supplier programming software use higher-level languages for some purposes?

Read our story Higher Ground—Part I on high-level control languages and their design.

Data acquisition can serve many purposes. From machine diagnostics to exporting to an ERP system, the use of data is varied. What are your customers using it for?

Read our story Machine Data Acquisition Capabilities Grow.

No matter where you are, machine automation does the same thing, but different areas put different restrictions on those controls. Tell Machine Builder Nation how geography impacts the machine controls you choose.

Read our article Adapt and Go Global.

Have you thought about rebuilding machinery instead of buying new? How far did you take that idea? Did you find a hurdle you just couldn’t overcome, or are you using rebuilt machines. Tell us.

You can read our article Rebuild or Buy New?

Discrete manufacturing inevitably leads to process control considerations and vice versa. Elements of one find their way into the other with regularity. Let us know about some of your more challenging and vexing hybrid encounters.

Read our story Semiconductor Fab Clears the Air.

Coverage from the ASBPE 2008 Conference in Kansas City, MO.

Katy Tomasulo, Deputy Editor for Building Products and EcoHome emphasized the importance of writing for the Web at the ASBPE 2008 Conference. Getting readers to visit the magazine's website is essential. The question is how do we do this?

You (the user) want exclusive content. Offering you the same information you find on our print magazine is not the way to win your loyalty. You want new things like video, podcasts, whitepapers, products and web exclusive articles.

Luckily, we have been providing you with what you want out of our online product. Our print magazine gives you essential information on important industry subjects, then we tease you with our… “for more information check us online at….” Here, we give you all the additional information we couldn’t fit in the print magazine and we also create web exclusive content.

Tomasulo advised those print publications that have not successfully transitioned to the online world to do what we have been doing for a long time now.  Users want more content, more videos and more blogs. You want a unique online experience.

Now I ask you, do you think we are doing enough to satisfy your information needs online? If not tell us what you want to see on our website. We are here working for you.