Automation Chat: Recent Episodes

rokthejournal

Unlike any other industrial automation podcast!

Join me, Theresa Houck, for Automation Chat, where I talk with industrial automation leaders, executives. practitioners and other subject matter experts to get their insights about technologies and trends affecting manufacturing and industrial automation professionals every day. I’m Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine (http://rok.auto/thejournal). I chat with guests about digital transformation, analytics and information management, networks & security, motion control, motors & electrical systems, workforce challenges, business challenges and opportunities, and more. Plus, we bring some humor to the mix too.

Visit The Journal on LinkedIn at https://bit.ly/linkedintj, Twitter at https://twitter.com/thejournal_ROK, or Facebook at https://bit.ly/facebooktj.

View Details

In this episode, The Journal’s Digital Editor Maggie MacHale brings the written word to life by reading the article,“5 Strategies to Strengthen Industrial Cybersecurity.” It’s written by Kamil Karmali, Senior Global Commercial Manager of Cybersecurity Services at Rockwell Automation.

You’ll learn how a three-phase protection strategy and mandatory regulatory reporting requirements can help safeguard manufacturing systems from evolving cyber threats.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “5 Strategies to Strengthen Industrial Cybersecurity.”
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines and monthly e-newsletter at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from the information. And kindly give us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Got a topic you want us to cover? Questions or comments? Email Executive Editor Theresa Houck at thouck@endeavorb2b.com.

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022 - 2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode’s news roundup, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck reports on issues affecting manufacturers and producers every day, including:

  • The low percentage of risk management leaders who successfully balance data security & business goals.
  • Projected source of most AI data breaches.
  • Large percentage of manufacturing OT devices already vulnerable to ransomware.
  • Projected market growth for cobots, mass flow controllers, and process automation & instrumentation.
  • Updated ISO 10218 global standard for industrial robot safety.
  • SME honors program for manufacturing students & young workers.
  • And more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Learn more about & apply for the SME (Society of Manufacturing Engineers) “30 for 30” program recognizing talented young manufacturing leaders.
  • Download Claroty’s Team82 “State of CPS Security 2025: OT Exposures” report.
  • Request the Process Automation and Instrumentation Market report from Future Market Insights.
  • Download the 2025 edition of ISO 10218 from A3.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from the information. And kindly give us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Got a topic you want us to cover? Questions or comments? Email Executive Editor Theresa Houck at thouck@endeavorb2b.com.

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022 - 2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

In this exclusive episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from the show floor at Automation Fair 2024, The Journal’s Managing Editor Amanda Joshi chats with Max Davitt, Regional Sales Manager with LinMot USA, about the company’s linear motors, linear rotary motors and other linear systems. Learn how its linear rotary motors with CIP Sync provide flexibility and speed, combining two electromagnetic servo motors in just one slim housing, enabling combined linear and rotary movements.

Also learn about LinMot E-Guides, which are linear guides that can be mounted together to form a gantry or semi-gantry design and can be used with multiple stators on the same guide. And, learn about the company’s IP69K-rated motors for harsh environments.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Learn more about LinMot USA.
  • Watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Wp1JmeejejY.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please share this episode with others who would benefit from the information.

View Details

In this episode, The Journal’s Digital Editor Maggie MacHale brings the written word to life by reading the article,“How Kimberly-Clark’s DCS Upgrade Eased Scalability.” It’s written by David Greenfield, Editor in Chief of our sister publication Automation World and Contributing Editor to The Journal.

You’ll learn how a unified control system helped this global consumer packaged goods company integrate production technologies while reducing workforce training for its tissue manufacturing operation.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “How Kimberly-Clark’s DCS Upgrade Eased Scalability.”
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from the information. And kindly leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Got a topic you want us to cover? Questions or comments? Email Executive Editor Theresa Houck at thouck@endeavorb2b.com.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Anthony Murphy, Vice President of Product Management at Plex, by Rockwell Automation, about:

  • How manufacturing is evolving.
  • Plex Connected Worker solutions with step-by-step guidance while automating low-value tasks.
  • How workers use it.
  • How it helps with the skilled worker shortage.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/8Pm670QAO9E.
  • Plex Connected Worker solutions.
  • Learn about Plex, by Rockwell Automation.
  • Free eBook, “Quality Management for Dummies,” by Anthony Murphy, VP of Product Management and Brian Martensen, Product Manager, Plex, by Rockwell Automation
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please hit the Share icon and share this episode with colleagues who would find this information helpful.

View Details

In this February 2025 news alert, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck reports on issues affecting manufacturers and producers every day, including:

  • Looming 25% tariffs on semiconductors, automotive and pharmaceuticals.
  • Food manufacturing industry trends.
  • The most in-demand manufacturing jobs of 2025.
  • Projected market growth for PLCs and servo motors & drives.
  • Scholarships for students going into manufacturing.
  • And more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Apply for the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association manufacturing students SparkForce summer/fall 2025 scholarships.
  • Learn about the Pepperl+Fuchs and Rockwell Automation ThinManager partnership.
  • Download the 2024 Rockwell Automation Sustainability Report.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from the information. And kindly leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Got a topic you want us to cover? Questions or comments? Email Executive Editor Theresa Houck at thouck@endeavorb2b.com.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

Digitization is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, and advanced technologies are helping manufacturers create a connected environment to increase efficiency and mitigate the skilled worker shortage. In this insightful episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses 8 important industrial automation trends helping companies develop smart industrial plants.

You’ll learn about smart technologies such as artificial intelligence, edge & cloud computing, digital twins, robots & cobots, connected worker technology, wireless private 5G connectivity and more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read Theresa’s full, comprehensive article from the February 2025 issue of The Journal.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please share this episode with colleagues who would benefit from the information.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Griffin Hodnett, Product Manager of Automation at Mettler-Toledo, about the company’s IND360 MultiACM weight indicators for automated tank/vessel weighing.

You’ll learn how these weight indicators are designed for easy integration into automation systems to minimize complexity for OEMs, system integrators and end-users, and help customers set up tank systems quickly and get additional data from tank weighing scales. Individual weight values are available for up to 4 strain gauge load cells for better condition monitoring. The LoadAdvisor feature provides live guidance for commissioning tank systems, cutting costs, eliminating errors and improving measurement accuracy.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Watch Theresa & Griffin's discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/60G1AGb-6aw.
  • Details about the IND360 MultiACM.
  • Video of IND360 MultiACM — Enhanced Data Insights for Analog Load Cells.
  • Video of IND360 MultiACM Configuration Using LoadAdvisor.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please hit the Share icon and share this episode with colleagues who would find this information helpful.

View Details

In this exclusive episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from the Automation Fair 2024 show floor, The Journal’s Managing Editor Amanda Joshi talks with Mike Wurster, Director of Strategic Alliances and Dave Ulmer, Channel Support Engineer at Stratus Technologies. Learn about the company’s ztC Edge, a secure, zero-touch, DIN-rail mountable edge-computing platform with built-in virtualization and fault-tolerant workload protection. With industrial interoperability and OT manageability, it enables quick, easy delivery of both highly available and fault-tolerant virtualized edge applications.

Also learn how the company collaborates with Claroty, Fortinet and Rockwell Automation to include pre-validated cybersecurity protection.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/rAW7qSGVu_I.
  • Learn more about Stratus Technologies.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please share this episode with others who would benefit from the information.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next edition of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our February 2024 issue. Our print magazine mails February 25, and our digital issue launches February 27. Learn about upcoming stories on:

  • Data-ready machines that help users increase efficiency & business value.
  • How a chocolate maker improved packaging-line throughput.
  • Risks of unpatched software in consumer packaged goods operations.
  • Highlights from the 2024 Automation Fair event.
  • Top industrial automation trends of 2025.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines by visiting http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please hit the “Share? icon share this episode with colleagues who would benefit from the information.

View Details

In this special episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from the Automation Fair 2024 expo floor, The Journal’s Managing Editor Amanda Joshi talks with Garrett Edwards, Director of Product Management and Marketing at Spectrum Controls. Learn about the company’s Universal Industrial Gateway with 12 protocols, a single-box solution for multidevice/multiprotocol systems that’s now ODVA compliant, meaning it's EtherNet/IP™ capable.

Also learn about developments on its 5069-OV16F-SC output module and 5069-IV16F-SC input modules for Allen-Bradley® Compact 5000™ I/O systems from Rockwell Automation, and Spectrum’s 1769 OV and IQ I/O modules.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/rEGyT9IfkxU.
  • Learn more about Spectrum Controls.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please share this episode with others who would benefit from the information.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In our January 2025 news report, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck’s updates include Rockwell Automation’s smart water technology award, a major U.S. Dept. of Energy grants for small- and medium-sized manufacturers, and some new product announcements. Other topics include:

  • ODVA-Certified Passive Harmonic Filter Technology.
  • FactoryTalk Analytics VisionAI quality inspection platform.
  • Illinois Smart Manufacturing Lighthouse Program federal grant.
  • ODVA process device profiles for RTD and thermocouple temperature sensors.
  • New distribution fuses.
  • New industrial cameras with embedded AI core.
  • And more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Trans-Coil International (TCI) PQconnect passive harmonic filter technology.
  • Learn about the FactoryTalk Analytics VisionAI quality inspection platform.
  • Learn about Kezzler’s Connected Products Platform.
  • Learn about the IMPERX Panther Series of Deep Learning industrial vision cameras.
  • Learn about Mersen’s MDC15D Series Distribution Fuses.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from the information. And kindly leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

View Details

In this exclusive episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from the Automation Fair 2024 show floor, The Journal’s Managing Editor Amanda Joshi talks with Greg Jackson, Chief Operating Officer and John Oskin, Senior Vice President with SmartSights. You’ll learn about the company’s Peer issue-management accelerator for real-time intelligent alarms, alerts and engineer-to-operator collaboration for its WIN-911 machine & process alarms notification suite.

Also learn how SmartSights has made it easier for system integrators and distributors to install, configure and deploy its systems.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/_fmJz9Cr250.
  • Learn more about SmartSights.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please share this episode with others who would benefit from the information.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

In this special episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from the expo floor at Automation Fair 2024, The Journal’s Managing Editor Amanda Joshi talks with Endress+Hauser’s Jason Pennington, Director of Digital Solutions and Keith Riley, Product Marketing Manager of Level+Pressure, about the company’s new compact, Bluetooth-enabled process measurement instrumentation for hygienic applications in industries such as food and beverage, life sciences, water wastewater, etc.

The product line includes Vibronic point level detection Liquiphant models, a vibration point level switch for safe liquid overfill prevention; Cerabar hygienic pressure transmitter; and Micropilot radar transmitter. Communication protocols include 4-20MA HART and I-O Link.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Learn more about Endress+Hauser.
  • Watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/-p1YBQeXR0w.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please share this episode with others who would benefit from the information.

View Details

In this episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from the show floor at Automation Fair 2024, The Journal’s Managing Editor Amanda Joshi has an exclusive interview with Sumant Vashisht, Product Solutions Manager, Hammond Power Solutions (HPS). Learn about the HPS Smart Transformer that incorporates an HPS low or medium voltage transformer with a pre-installed IIoT-connected power meter.

It enhances predictive maintenance and helps prevent power loss by using real-time monitoring and advanced analytics to provide users with insights into transformer and electrical system health. Ideal for manufacturing, data centers, hospitals and other critical applications.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Learn more about Hammond Power Solutions.
  • Watch their interview on YouTube at https://youtu.be/wi2Dpq1hyTQ.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please share this episode with others who would benefit from the information.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this special episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from the expo floor at Automation Fair 2024, The Journal’s Managing Editor Amanda Joshi chats with Justin Stewart from Advanced Micro Controls Inc. (AMCI) about the company’s motion control technology, now with CIP Sync that allows for precise time synchronization between multiple devices on an EtherNet/IP network. This enables coordinated motion control with minimal latency across different devices within a system.

Also see new features such as Safe Torque Off, IP67 environmental protection, absolute encoder feedback and more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/E_O5K32PsUE.
  • Learn more about AMCI.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please share this episode with others who would benefit from the information.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

This is a special encore presentation of our #1 most popular episode of 2024 in our “best of” series!

Manufacturing is now the #1 target for hackers. Smart, connected devices on the plant floor are high-value cyberattack targets because of the intellectual property they contain — and just one day of downtime can cost millions.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Richard Springer, Director of Marketing, OT Solutions at Fortinet, about findings of its revealing study, “Advancing Digital Transformation in a Time of Unprecedented Cybersecurity Risk,” developed in collaboration with the Manufacturers Alliance Foundation.

They discuss key takeaways, cybersecurity trends, and lessons that can help manufacturers fortify their cybersecurity efforts. Also learn how IT/OT collaboration is a key to finding mutual goals that balance security and operational priorities. And discover what the U.S. SEC has to do with cyberattack reporting.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Download the report, “Advancing Digital Transformation in a Time of Unprecedented Cybersecurity Risk.”
  • Richard Springer on LinkedIn.
  • Fortinet.
  • Manufacturer’s Alliance.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch Theresa & Richard’s conversation on YouTube at https://youtu.be/esFAKPAbCSY.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** Named Best Podcast 3 Consecutive Years! 2022 – 2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In our bonus news report this month, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck’s updates include life sciences market trends as well as new products announcements. Some of this episode’s topics include:

  • Fortinet’s new innovation hub in Chicago.
  • Integration of the Rockwell Automation NVIDIA Omniverse programming interfaces into the Rockwell Automation Emulate3D digital-twin software.
  • Rockwell Automation & Microsoft’s advanced cloud and AI solutions.
  • Festo’s suite of pneumatic systems safety products.
  • HPS Smart Transformers from Hammond Power Solutions.
  • ProSoft Technology’s IEC 61850 ControlLogix module.
  • Hardy Process Solutions’ HI5069-WS Series weight modules for Rockwell Automation Compact5000 PLCs.
  • And more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • 1756 ControlLogix Integrated Motion Module Migration from AMCI.
  • Hammond Power Solutions HPS Smart Transformers.
  • IEC 61850 ControlLogix module from ProSoft Technology.
  • Learn about HMS Networks.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from it. And kindly leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode’s news report, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck provides updates about:

  • 2025 smart manufacturing and mobility trends & predictions, including GM layoffs, Chinese manufacturers relocating and more.
  • Endress+Hauser’s TÜV Rheinland IEC 62443-4-1 security standard certification.
  • Key leadership changes at Fluke Corp. and Rockwell Automation.
  • HMS Networks’ reorganization into three divisions.
  • And more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Learn about HMS Networks.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from it. And kindly leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

View Details

This is a special encore presentation of our #2 most popular episode of 2024 in our “best of” series!

In this episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Dave Kang, Advisory Solutions Architect at Dragos and Kamil Karmali, Senior Global Commercial Manager, Cybersecurity Services at Rockwell Automation. Get nuts-and-bolts, practical information about strengthening cybersecurity for industrial networks and systems, including:

  • How ransomware attacks have evolved over the past year.
  • Steps you can take to prepare for — and recover from — an attack.
  • Common governance models and decision-making structures.
  • 3 key considerations for developing a unified IT and OT strategy.
  • Workforce needs for an effective cybersecurity strategy.
  • How effective cyber hygiene and risk posture helps reduce risk of cyber incidents.
  • Cybersecurity-related compliance requirements in North America and around the world.
  • Why it's vital for manufacturers to have a business continuity plan.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Blog: 6 Steps to Reduce Industrial Cybersecurity Risks.
  • Q&A with Executive Editor Theresa Houck: Understanding the OT Threat Landscape Helps Manufacturers Improve Cybersecurity
  • Rockwell Automation Manufacturing Industry Cybersecurity web page.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at n

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/8Pm670QAO9E.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please subscribe to “Automation Chat" and give us a 5-star rating and a review.

View Details

This is a special encore presentation of our #3 most popular episode of 2024!

As advancements in cybersecurity have improved detection and response capabilities, managing the immense amounts of data required by AI-based cyber solutions remains a challenge. So, in this episode, we chat about how edge computing can enhance cybersecurity. Executive Editor Theresa Houck is joined by Valerie Schneider, Business Development Manager and Mike Wurster, Director of Strategic Alliances with Stratus Technologies to discuss:

  • The biggest cyberthreats facing manufacturers & producers.
  • How industrial firms can deal with these cyberthreats.
  • How AI can be integrated with existing OT security technologies & processes to provide a comprehensive Defense-in-Depth strategy.
  • How AI can enhance threat detection & response in OT environments.
  • Best practices for improving cybersecurity.
  • How edge computing & virtualization let users consolidate multiple applications on a single platform, allowing cybersecurity protocols to integrate with applications like HMI, SCADA, MES and batching.
  • How to balance security measures with usability & productivity.
  • Steps for improving OT cybersecurity without significant investment or disruption to operations.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/0kQ1c3z36MM.

Resources from this episode:

  • Stratus & Rockwell Automation Partnership: “Together, Simplifying Edge Computing for the Connected Enterprise.”
  • Analyst Brief: “Virtualization with Stratus Zero-Touch Computing Platforms.”
  • White Paper: “Edge Computing Bridges IT and OT People, Process, and Technology.”
  • Email Valerie Schneider at valerie.schneider@stratus.com.
  • Email Mike Wurster at mike.wurster@stratus.com.

Please tap the Share icon to share this episode with peers who would benefit from the information. And kindly give us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode’s news report, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck reports updates about:

  • The global industrial control & automation market’s 5-year forecast
  • A key update to Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk PharmaSuite software.
  • SME’s “Ready to Hire” program providing trained workers.
  • Dragos Inc.’s acquisition of Network Perception.
  • Rockwell Automation agreement with Taurob to develop robotics.
  • Fortinet’s certification program award.
  • New leadership at packaging OEM The Optima Group’s and cable solutions provider icotek Corp.
  • ISA’s new position paper.
  • And more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk PharmaSuite v. 11.02.00.
  • Connected worker solution from Plex, by Rockwell Automation.
  • For info about the SME “Ready to Hire” program, contact Chad Schron, Senior Director of Tooling U-SME, chad.schron@toolingu.com.
  • Download ISA’s position paper, “Automation Shapes Global Economic Growth and Development.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from it. And kindly leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

We’re thrilled to bring you this special crossover episode, “MFG Day: Getting Young People Involved in Manufacturing,” from our sister publication, IndustryWeek and its podcast, “Great Question: A Manufacturing Podcast” and bi-weekly livestream video series “Product Pulse.” It’s an excellent panel discussion held in honor of National Manufacturing Day, focusing on showing young people how exciting a career in manufacturing can be.

Moderated by IndustryWeek’s Editor-in-Chief Robert Shoenberger, the panel includes the Director of Student Engagement at the Manufacturing Institute; editors from Machine Design, Chemical Processing and Pharma Manufacturing magazines; and an expert with insights about how parents and children talk about manufacturing careers.

“Great Question: A Manufacturing Podcast” offers news & information for people who work in manufacturing manage & maintain facilities, providing insights into technologies, economic conditions and best practices about how to reach operational excellence. 14 seasoned manufacturing journalists contribute to the podcast. Follow on any podcast app or listen on their website.

Other resources:

  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly, Joke of the Day.

Please tap the Share icon to share this episode with peers who would benefit from the information. And kindly give us a 5-star rating and a review.

“Automation Chat” is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

View Details

** 3 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 - 2024 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, The Journal’s Digital Editor Maggie MacHale brings the written word to life by reading the article,“Tips for Complying with the NIS2 Compliance Framework.” It’s written by Meghna Subramani, Commercial Product Manager, Network & Cybersecurity, and Andreu Cuartiella, Lifecycle Services Commercial Manager EMEA at Rockwell Automation.

You’ll learn 7 steps to help you comply with this directive for increasing cybersecurity for industrial firms, utilities and other entities across the European Union.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “Tips for Complying with the NIS2 Compliance Framework.”
  • Data Bridge Market Research on the European market for operational technology (OT).
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Hit the “Share” symbol to share this episode with your colleagues who would benefit from this information. And please give us a 5-star rating and a review.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

In this episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading the article, “How to Perform Wire Insulation-Resistance Testing for Industrial Motors,” from Fluke Corp. It provides guidelines for the process of testing insulation resistance to help make sure equipment runs smoothly and explains how insulation resistance testing can be crucial to a preventive maintenance schedule to help avoid unplanned downtime in manufacturing plants.

Resources from the episode:

  • Read the article online: “How to Perform Insulation Resistance Testing.”
  • The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
  • Fluke Corp.’s podcast, “Important Safety Practices for Electrical Testing Tools.” Listen on your podcast app or on the web.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we appreciate it.

And hit the Share icon to share this episode with peers who would benefit from the information.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on YouTube.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, we’re doing something a little different. Occasionally, we like to share a guest episode from another great podcast. This episode is from our sister publication Control magazine and its podcast called, “Control Intelligence.” Control magazine’s Editor in Chief Mike Bacidore explains the difference between programmable logic controllers and programmable automation controllers, and how PACs evolved from PLCs.

“Control Intelligence” is hosted by Control editors, led by Editor in Chief Mike Bacidore, and provides in-depth discussions with industry experts about important topics in the process control and automation field. They explore underlying issues affecting users, system integrators, suppliers and others. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and get an archive of past episodes at www.controlglobal.com/podcasts.

Other resources from this episode:

  • Visit Control magazine online at controlglobal.com.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly, Joke of the Day.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please follow us and leave us a 5-star rating & review.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In our award-winning “Automation Chat" podcast, “Automation & Manufacturing News, October 2024,” learn about the $2 million IEEE Medal of Honor, and Food Traceability Innovator and World’s Most Ethical Companies award winners; and the ISO and UNDP’s international guidelines for organizations to expedite contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. She also dives deep into automotive, industrial PC, industrial wireless device, robotics, and AI trends.

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Register to watch the February 2025 IEEE Medal of Honor Live-Stream Press Conference.
  • Download The Journal’s "2024 Trends in OEM & Control Design" eBook.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please share this episode with someone else who would benefit from it. And leave us a 5-star rating and a review — it helps other industrial automation professionals find us, and we really appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

** 3 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 - 2024 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading the article,“HMI Helps With the Heavy Lifting.”

It’s written by Susan Burtch, Lead Commercial Portfolio Manager of, Visualization Software at Rockwell Automation.You’ll learn how modern human-machine interface software removes barriers to accessing a manufacturing operation’s data, and empowers OEMs and end users.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “HMI Helps With the Heavy Lifting.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Hit the “Share” symbol to share this episode with your colleagues who would benefit from this information. And please give us a 5-star rating and a review.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

** Named “Best Podcast” for 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode of “Automation Chat," Executive Editor Theresa Houck reviews news in industrial automation and manufacturing. Learn about market trends in OT cybersecurity and in ultrasonic flowmeters; the role of AC drives for energy savings; and what skilled trades workers think about digital tools and AI. Also learn about achievements by FANUC Robotics, the SME Education Foundation and Endress+Hauser.

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • ARC Advisory Group market research about low-power AC drives.
  • NFPA survey about the skilled trades industry.
  • SME Education Foundation scholarship program.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — it helps other industrial automation professionals find us, and we really appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next edition of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our October issue. Our print magazine mails October 15, and our digital issue launches October 26. Learn about upcoming stories on:

  • How to modernize plant operations.
  • What’s coming at the 2024 Automation Fair event.
  • How to select edge computing technology for oil & gas operations.
  • How to improve OEE through predictive maintenance.
  • Why VFD cable choices & installation matter.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines by visiting http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast, Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Todd Gilliam, North American CPG Industry Leader at Rockwell Automation, and Monté Vander Velde, Senior Project Manager with CRB Group. Both companies recently released comprehensive reports: one about the consumer packaged goods industry, and one focused on the food and beverage industry.

This conversation is a great in-depth look into industry trends. They talk about key takeaways from each report, including:

  • Top challenges identified by survey respondents, such as streamlining operations, navigating their digital journey, implementing ESG initiatives and stretching limited capital budgets.
  • How manufacturers are addressing the labor shortage.
  • Benefits of investing in technology for CPG manufacturers.
  • How AI can help with control code, data collection and response to support continuous improvement.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Download the Rockwell Automation State of Smart Manufacturing Report 2024: CPG Edition.
  • Download the CRB 2024 Horizons Digital Age of Food Manufacturing report.
  • Academy of Advanced Manufacturing (AAM) program for finding skilled workers.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/0aN9BNsE7d0.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please subscribe and give us a 5-star rating & a review.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Ashley David, Product Marketing Manager for Level and Pressure Equipment at Endress+Hauser USA. They discuss:

  • What exactly “smart instrumentation” is in process automation.
  • Where the industry is headed with smart instrumentation and why.
  • Why diagnostics, verification and monitoring functions are vital.
  • How data collected from smart devices is used to improve productivity, cut maintenance costs, reduce paperwork, comply with legal requirements, help ensure safety and more.
  • Smart instrumentation’s role in optimizing calibration and cGMP compliance in the life sciences industry.
  • What to know if you’re not sure smart devices in process instrumentation are right for you.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Learn about Heartbeat Technology on Proline Promag electromagnetic flowmeters from Endress+Hauser.
  • Learn about benefits of Heartbeat Technology in smart instrumentation.
  • Case Study: New Belgium Brewing refines calibration process.
  • Endress+Hauser website.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/3TlUFOKrkJ4.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please subscribe to “Automation Chat" and give us a 5-star rating and a review.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of “Automation Chat," Executive Editor Theresa Houck highlights news in industrial automation and manufacturing. Learn about the size of the U.S. manufacturing industry; trends in the oil & gas, modular robotics, batch control systems and industrial networks markets; and how companies are using AI. Also learn about achievements by EOSYS, FANUC Robotics, Hammond Power Solutions, the International Society of Automation (ISA) and Rockwell Automation.

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • International Society of Automation (ISA) AI-powered large-language model, Mimo.
  • U.S. Dept. of Commerce Report on the State of Manufacturing in the United States.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — we really appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading the case study,“How a Craft Brewery Switched from Bottles to Cans.” It explains how Lakefront Brewery used updated PLCs, drives and HMIs to switch its operation to cans while also improving visibility and production.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “How a Craft Brewery Switched from Bottles to Cans.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we very much appreciate it.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** 3 Consecutive Best Podcast Awards, 2022-2024 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Dave Kang, Advisory Solutions Architect at Dragos and Kamil Karmali, Senior Global Commercial Manager, Cybersecurity Services at Rockwell Automation. Get nuts-and-bolts, practical information about strengthening cybersecurity for industrial networks and systems, including:

  • How ransomware attacks have evolved over the past year.
  • Steps you can take to prepare for — and recover from — an attack.
  • Common governance models and decision-making structures.
  • 3 key considerations for developing a unified IT and OT strategy.
  • Workforce needs for an effective cybersecurity strategy.
  • How effective cyber hygiene and risk posture helps reduce risk of cyber incidents.
  • Cybersecurity-related compliance requirements in North America and around the world.
  • Why it's vital for manufacturers to have a business continuity plan.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Blog: 6 Steps to Reduce Industrial Cybersecurity Risks.
  • Q&A with Executive Editor Theresa Houck: Understanding the OT Threat Landscape Helps Manufacturers Improve Cybersecurity
  • Rockwell Automation Manufacturing Industry Cybersecurity web page.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/8Pm670QAO9E.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please subscribe to "Automation Chat" and give us a 5-star rating and a review.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Award of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, The Journal’s Managing Editor Amanda Joshi brings the written word to life by reading the article,“10 Electrical Safety Mistakes to Avoid,” from Fluke Corp. Get tips about personal protective equipment (PPE), electrical testing tools, testing leads, fuses, lockout/tagout (LOTO) and more.

Resources from the episode:

  • Read the article online: “10 Electrical Safety Mistakes to Avoid.”
  • NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.
  • Fluke Corp. web site.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we appreciate it.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please subscribe and give us a 5-star rating and a review.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

What do Abraham Lincoln, children’s literacy and the Chicago Bears have to do with manufacturing?

In this episode of “Automation Chat," Executive Editor Theresa Houck highlights news in industrial automation and manufacturing. Learn about trends in U.S. automotive aftermarket; an Illinois law providing tax incentives to quantum technology companies; and a California rule with incentives for manufacturers to shift from gas to electric boilers & heaters. Also learn about achievements by Endress+Hauser, Southwire and E Tech Group, and why Abraham Lincoln is in the Illinois Manufacturing Hall of Fame.

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • NVIDIA & Rockwell Automation Collaborate to Increase AI in Manufacturing.
  • “Automation Chat" wins 3rd consecutive “Best Podcast” award. Learn more here.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — we sincerely appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named “Best Podcast” 3 Consecutive Years! 2022-2024 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of our “Automation Chat” podcast from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Brian Deken, North America Commercial Manager of Networks & Cybersecurity Services at Rockwell Automation. They talk about cybersecurity challenges and outcomes manufacturers are trying to achieve and how to attain them.

Also learn why it’s vital to do cybersecurity assessments in real time and why you can’t integrate and optimize an IT tool for an OT environment. And see how Rockwell Automation provides IT/OT synergies through its partner ecosystem and uses the NIST-based approach to help manufacturers to focus resources for cybersecurity.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Cybersecurity Preparedness Assessment.
  • Rockwell Automation Industrial Cybersecurity Solutions.
  • Blog: Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity (includes NIST explanation).
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/8NtR7oHzhhY.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please subscribe and give us a 5-star rating and a review.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of “Automation Chat," Executive Editor Theresa Houck highlights news in industrial automation and manufacturing. Learn about the NIST Cybersecurity Framework2.0; a new GenAI prescriptive maintenance work-order software; research about digital services and about global supply-chain conditions; Endress+Hauser’s new Pennsylvania facility; Rockwell Automation plans for an India facility; and a BionicBee!

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0.
  • Learn about the Fiix Asset Risk Predictor Software with GenAI prescriptive maintenance work orders.
  • Learn more about the ARC Advisory Group Digital Services Study.
  • Download The Journal’s 2024 "CPG Automation" eHandbook.
  • Watch video of the Festo Corp.’s
  • Watch video of the Festo Corp.’s BionicBee in flight.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — we appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next edition of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our July 2024 issue. Our print magazine mails July 16, and our digital issue launches July 31 by email. Learn about upcoming stories on:

  • Using automation, artificial intelligence and machine learning to get past the smart-technology implementation phase.
  • How automotive OEMs are increasing cybersecurity in smart vehicles.
  • How connecting digital technologies into a digital thread helps create a faster, more resilient business for automotive manufacturers.
  • How a consumer packaged goods firm uses packaging robotics with open mechanics and unified control to create an autonomous system that can perform complex tasks.
  • Why OT cybersecurity is a vital business strategy.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines by visiting http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

As advancements in cybersecurity have improved detection and response capabilities, managing the immense amounts of data required by AI-based cyber solutions remains a challenge. So, in this episode, we chat about how edge computing can enhance cybersecurity. Executive Editor Theresa Houck is joined by Valerie Schneider, Business Development Manager and Mike Wurster, Director of Strategic Alliances with Stratus Technologies to discuss:

  • The biggest cyberthreats facing manufacturers and producers.
  • How industrial firms can deal with these cyberthreats.
  • How artificial intelligence can be integrated with existing OT security technologies & processes to provide a comprehensive Defense-in-Depth strategy.
  • How AI can enhance threat detection & response in OT environments.
  • Best practices for improving cybersecurity.
  • How edge computing & virtualization let users consolidate multiple applications on a single platform, allowing cybersecurity protocols to integrate with applications like HMI, SCADA, MES and batching.
  • How to balance security measures with usability & productivity.
  • Steps for improving OT cybersecurity without significant investment or disruption to operations.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/0kQ1c3z36MM.

Resources from this episode:

  • Stratus & Rockwell Automation Partnership: “Together, Simplifying Edge Computing for the Connected Enterprise.”
  • Analyst Brief: “Virtualization with Stratus Zero-Touch Computing Platforms.”
  • White Paper: “Edge Computing Bridges IT and OT People, Process, and Technology.”
  • Email Valerie Schneider valerie.schneider@stratus.com.
  • Email Mike Wurster at mike.wurster@stratus.com.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, we’re sharing a guest episode from the “Chemical Processing Distilled” podcast from our sister publication Chemical Processing, hosted by its Editor-in-Chief Traci Purdum. She describes eight happy and fascinating accidents that ended up having profound effects on the chemical industry and on humanity. Even if you’re not in the chemical industry, you’ll enjoy this look at unintended discoveries that changed the world.

If you work in the chemical industry, you’ll want to subscribe to “Chemical Processing Distilled” on your favorite podcast app. This is one of the best podcasts for this industry — it’s educational and interesting, and I look forward to it coming out every week.

And as always with each “Automation Chat" episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck shares a family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Visit Chemical Processing magazine online at www.chemicalprocessing.com.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. Please subscribe and leave us a 5-star rating and review.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this special episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck announces two upcoming webinars she’s moderating in the next couple of weeks. If you can’t attend the live event, they’ll be available on demand afterwards.

“Industrial Gateways – Bridging the Communication Gap” will explain industrial communication protocols and challenges of needing different systems to interact harmoniously. “Mitigating Harmonic Disturbances for Better Electrical System Performance” will explain how to prevent energy loss & equipment downtime, boosting performance and saving costs.

Here are links to learn more and register for these webinars:

  • “Industrial Gateways – Bridging the Communication Gap.” June 12, 2024, 10 a.m. CT / 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT. / 3 p.m. GMT. Register: https://rebrand.ly/psc612tj
  • “Mitigating Harmonic Disturbances for Better Electrical System Performance.” June 18, 2024, 1 p.m. CT / 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT / 6 p.m. GMT. Register: https://rebrand.ly/phps618

“Automation Chat” is Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Greg Jackson, COO of SmartSights. Greg explains how WIN-911 Software acquired SyTech and rebranded the company as SmartSights, and what that means for its offering of analytics, reporting and notification solutions. Learn how the larger team allows the company to support a broader solutions portfolio and a full ecosystem, a larger R&D budget and its combined 3-in-1 solution.

Also see how these solutions help manufacturers with challenges like industrial data overload and the worker shortage, so users can view operations and get real-time information to make decisions and improve performance.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Video: How SmartSights Elevates Rockwell Automation Software.
    • On-Demand Webinar: SmartSights WIN-911 Mobile for Notification & Process Insights.
  • SmartSights SmartBundle Web Page: WIN-911 + XLReporter.
  • Subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch Theresa & Greg’s conversation on YouTube at https://youtu.be/9yuB7yoX9Fc.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of “Automation Chat," Executive Editor Theresa Houck highlights news in industrial automation and manufacturing. Learn about new research on IT spending growth, enterprise adoption of GenAI, and an increase in both manufacturing jobs and facilities and how companies are dealing with the worker shortage.

You’ll also get news on:

  • How the EPA’s Clean Air Act air-monitoring ruling will affect chemical processing companies, and implications of the EPA’s ban on methylene chloride.
  • Unilever Ice Cream’s $21 million awarded to reduce carbon emissions.
  • How marketing pros plan to protect their social-media brands from deceptive GenAI practices.
  • How students and young professionals can win $1,000 from the IEC.

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Download the MIT Technology Review Insights report, “The Great Acceleration: CIO Perspectives on Generative AI.”
  • Read results of the “2024 Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute Talent Study.”
  • Learn about and enter the IEC U.S. National Committee Don Heirman Award Program.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — we appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading the article,“The Basics of Industrial Gateways,” from Spectrum Controls. You’ll get a quick tutorial on gateways and the types of common industrial communication protocols, and how they can be used in mixed-protocol environments.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “The Basics of Industrial Gateways.”
  • Download the Spectrum Controls white paper, “Industrial Gateways: Bridging the Communications Gap.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next edition of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our May issue. Our print magazine mails May 14, and our digital issue launches May 22. Learn about upcoming stories on:

  • Protecting OT systems from aggressive cyberattacks.
  • A case study about how a craft brewery switched from bottles to cans.
  • The basics of encoders for motion systems.
  • The basics of industrial gateways.
  • 10 electrical safety mistakes to avoid.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines by visiting http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of “Automation Chat," Executive Editor Theresa Houck reviews news highlights in industrial automation and manufacturing. This month, we cover an impactful robotics and simulation collaboration between READY Robotics, NVIDIA & Toyota for the automaker’s aluminum hot forging production.

We also report on important cybersecurity reports from Fortinet and Dragos Inc.; a cybersecurity firm acquisition by Rockwell Automation; cybersecurity awards; and sustainability achievements in hydroponics farms, green hydrogen and decarbonization.

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Dragos Inc. 6th Annual “Dragos OT Cybersecurity Year in Review.”
  • Fortinet White Paper: “A Solution Guide to Operational Technology Cybersecurity.”
  • System Integrator Avid Solutions.
  • Learn about the READY Robotics and Toyota & NVIDIA collaboration.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — we appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading the article,“Why Plant Managers Care About Outcomes, Not AI.”

It's written by Mike Bacidore, contributing editor of The Journal and Editor in Chief of our sister publication Control Design. You'll learn the difference between and automated and autonomous system; how they're changing industrial automation; and artificial intelligence's role in determining results.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “Why Plant Managers Care About Outcomes, Not AI.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

Manufacturing is now the #1 target for hackers. Smart, connected devices on the plant floor are high-value cyberattack targets because of the intellectual property they contain — and just one day of downtime can cost millions.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Richard Springer, Director of Marketing, OT Solutions at Fortinet, about findings of its revealing study, “Advancing Digital Transformation in a Time of Unprecedented Cybersecurity Risk,” developed in collaboration with the Manufacturers Alliance Foundation.

They discuss key takeaways, cybersecurity trends, and lessons that can help manufacturers fortify their cybersecurity efforts. Also learn how IT/OT collaboration is a key to finding mutual goals that balance security and operational priorities. And discover what the U.S. SEC has to do with cyberattack reporting.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Download the report, “Advancing Digital Transformation in a Time of Unprecedented Cybersecurity Risk.”
  • Richard Springer’s blog: “Tracking Cybersecurity Progress at Industrial Companies.”
  • Richard Springer on LinkedIn.
  • Fortinet.
  • Manufacturer’s Alliance.
  • Subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch Theresa & Richard’s conversation on YouTube at https://youtu.be/esFAKPAbCSY.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

We’re bringing you a surprise this episode of “Automation Chat” by providing a guest episode from our sister publication Control magazine. Rockwell Automation just released its 9th Annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report, and for its “Control Intelligence” podcast, Control VP and Group Publisher Keith Larson interviewed Gerry Abbey, Rockwell Automation Manager of Analysts, Relations and Insights, to talk about the results.

You’ll learn how generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) rocketed up the technology priority list. Why cobots, AMRs, AGVs and wearables ranked highly in new areas for technology investments. How cybersecurity continues to increase as OT and IT work together more and connectivity increases between digital and physical operations. And more.

“Control Intelligence” is hosted by Control editors and provides in-depth discussions with industry experts about important topics in the process control and automation field. Episodes explore underlying issues affecting users, system integrators, suppliers and others. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and get an archive of past episodes at www.controlglobal.com/podcasts.

And as always with each“Automation Chat" episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck shares a family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Download the Rockwell Automation 9th Annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report.
  • Visit Control magazine online at controlglobal.com.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please subscribe, and leave us a 5-star rating and review.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

Imagine using your phone to take a picture of a machine process or part, telling the software it’s not working, and the software providing suggestions and solutions for solving the problem. That’s what generative AI is doing right now.

In this episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses how Microsoft is doing this and changing the industrial metaverse. Based on a report by Contributing Editor Jim Montague from the 2023 Automation Fair event, you’ll see how Rockwell Automation and Microsoft are using generative AI, ChatGPT and other digitized tools to build better products and processes.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online, “How Microsoft is Changing the Industrial Metaverse.”
  • Rockwell Automation Strategic Alliance Partner Microsoft.
  • How Microsoft & Rockwell Automation are partnering to leverage Generative AI.
  • Subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of Automation Chat, written by Rockwell Automation, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses how to limit access to networks, processes and intellectual property by using modern human-machine interface software with security features for user authentication, mobile use and more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online, “5 Ways to Make Your HMI Secure.”
  • Rockwell Automation white paper: “Improve Processes, Gain Greater Control with High-Performance HMI.”
  • Subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Automation Chat is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Find us on LinkedIn.

Find us on Facebook.

Find us on X (Twitter).

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode of “Automation Chat," Executive Editor Theresa Houck reviews news highlights in industrial automation and manufacturing, including cybersecurity, HMI and edge computing research reports; ODVA’s cybersecurity network extension for EtherNet/IP; the WEF’s Scope 3 emissions in manufacturing white paper; awards for manufacturing and DE&I performance; and more.

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • ARC Advisory Group Report: Operator Panels Market Driven by IT/OT Convergence.
  • ARC Advisory Group Report on Industrial Edge Apps.
  • World Economic Forum white paper, “The 'No-Excuse' Opportunities to Tackle Scope 3 Emissions in Manufacturing and Value Chains.”
  • Rockwell Automation 2023 Sustainability Report.
  • Plex, by Rockwell Automation
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — we appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, The Journal’s Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses how to go home safely at the end of your workday by applying good electrical safety practices. Written by Fluke Corp., you’ll learn key safe work methods for using electrical testing tools, including CAT ratings, NFPA 70E, visual inspection, verifying absence of voltage and more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • Read the article online, “How to Go Home Safely at the End of Your Day.”
  • Fluke Corp. web page.
  • Subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

The renewable energy sector is leading the global energy transition away from fossil fuels. To keep up with this explosive growth in demand, renewable energy manufacturers must modernize operations to increase reliability, efficiency and their ability to scale quickly — all without sacrificing product quality.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Craig Blondin, Industry Sales Manager, Hybrid, at Rockwell Automation, about how the sector can do this to satisfy manufacturers awaiting these renewable energy products.

They also discuss breakthrough technologies that enable faster speed to market and increased capacity, empowered workers, realized ESG goals and bolstered financial performance.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Blog: “Scaling Sustainability.”
  • Case Study: “Driving the Circular Economy with Renewable Natural Gas.”
  • Web Site: Renewable Energy Solutions from Rockwell Automation.
  • Contact Craig Blondin, Industry Sales Manager, Hybrid, Rockwell Automation, cnblondin@rockwellautomation.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/IMiMXGDcyPY.

Please subscribe and give us a 5-star rating and a review. Thank you!

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, written by Reid Schook, President of CoreTigo Inc., Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses what the IO-Link Wireless standard is, and how it helps optimize production to operate with reduced manual operations and changeovers and increased throughput.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from the episode:

  • Read the article online, “How IO-Link Wireless Enables Flexibility and Capacity.”
  • CoreTigo Inc. web site.
  • IO-Link explained.
  • The IO-Link IEC 61131-9 standard.
  • Subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — we appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck explains how the Panama Canal became horribly backed up with freighters, and its profound effects on the global supply chain. This is a follow-up to last week’s episode (Jan. 29, 2024) about trends & strategies to mitigate supply chain disruptions.

As always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • “Automation Chat” Podcast January 29, 2024, Episode #85: “11 Trends & Strategies for Mitigating Supply Chain Disruptions.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — we really appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck highlights 11 key trends and strategies industrial firms are using to mitigate supply chain disruptions.

Then she interviews Steve Riordan, Global Director, Consulting & Supply Chain Capability at Kalypso, A Rockwell Automation Business. They talk about what’s causing disruptions; how automation is helping manufacturers; what specific challenges the food & beverage and retail & apparel industries are facing; and changes he sees coming.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • Article: “4 Strategies For Creating a More Agile, Resilient Supply Chain.”
  • Blog: “The Future of Supply Chain Planning is Here.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — it helps us a lot, and we really appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

The ability to replace human organs could be more impactful on humanity than cell phones — and it’s happening now. In this “In Case You Missed It” episode, we bring the written word to life by reading an article from The Journal. Executive Editor Theresa Houck reads story, “A Look Inside a Ground-Breaking Human Tissue Foundry.”

It’s written by Mike Bacidore, Editor in Chief of our sister publication Control Design and contributing editor for The Journal, based on his tour of BioFabUSA, created by the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute. You’ll see how automation, life sciences, and engineering unite to create amazing disruptive tools and FDA-compliant manufacturing processes for organ regeneration, and the profound impact tissue regeneration could have on people’s lives and the health care system.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “A Look Inside a Ground-Breaking Human Tissue Foundry.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our February print magazine that mails Feb. 20.

Learn about upcoming stories on:

  • Smart machines & modern human-machine interface software.
  • A case study about how Green Bay Packaging is building a state-of-the-art facility, leveraging digital technology.
  • A case study about how a meat production facility used a modern DCS to automate its control system for a pilot alternative-protein plant.
  • Highlights from the 2023 Automation Fair event.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines by visiting http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

View Details

This is another episode in our regular series “In Case You Missed It,” where we bring the written word to life by reading an outstanding article from The Journal. In this episode, Josh Heath, Endress+Hauser USA’s Content Marketing Specialist, reads the article, “Understand the Pressure Effect on Coriolis Flowmeters.” The article is written by Victor Rojas, Coriolis Product Manager at Endress+Hauser Flow. It originally appeared in our 2023 Oil & Gas Automation eHandbook.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article by downloading our Sept. 2023 Oil & Gas Automation eHandbook.
  • Visit the Endress+Hauser website.
  • White Paper: Pressure Effect on Coriolis flowmeters and compensation.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please leave us a 5-star rating & review, and subscribe to “Automation Chat.”

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

Enjoy this encore presentation of our #1 most popular episode of 2023! Learn how to use a repeatable, step-by-step process called DCSNext to migrate legacy systems to modern distributed control systems. Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Nick Kristan, Process Solutions Manager, and Scott Hayes, DCSNext Portfolio Manager, at Rockwell Automation.

Also learn about the Front-End Loading (FEL) framework applied for project investigation, solution planning and feasibility. And discover the key to a successful migration.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • Web Site: Distributed Control System | DCS Migration Solution (mavtechglobal.com).
  • Contact Nick Kristan, Process Solutions Manager, at nkristan@ra.rockwell.com.
  • Contact Scott Hayes, DCSNext Portfolio Manager, at scott.hayes@mavtechglobal.com.
  • To subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/N2RlvQKcceI.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating & review, and subscribe.

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

Edge computing revolutionizes manufacturing operations for enhanced efficiency and continuous improvement. In this episode, guest moderator & Managing Editor Amanda Joshi talks with Stratus Technologies’ Andrew Hinz and Conperio Technology’s Ron Harrison about how edge computing supports Plex Manufacturing Execution System (MES) solutions by reducing downtime and improving real-time data processing, agility and performance.

Their chat includes an overview of MESs and how edge computing in MES can help optimize industrial operations. Learn about the gap between HMI/SCADA and the enterprise/cloud and what to do about it. And hear case studies about how MES and the edge helped food & beverage and oil & gas firms.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Plex MES by Rockwell Automation.
  • Stratus Technologies web site.
  • Conperio Technology Solutions web site.
  • Search the Stratus Session at Automation Fair 2023 On Demand.
  • Webinar: “Modernize & Optimize OT with Edge Computing.”
  • White Paper: “How to Modernize & Optimize Operational Technology from Plant Floor to Enterprise.”

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Video of this conversation is available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/MexQXUiTtaA.

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

Enjoy this encore presentation of our 2nd most popular episode of 2023! This is from our “In Case You Missed It” series, where we bring the written word to life by reading a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Executive Editor Theresa Houck reads, “How to Control an Electric Motor During a Network Failure.” Learn why programming in the appropriate motor state is crucial to prevent unexpected production losses when network communication issues arise.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • Read the article online: “How to Control an Electric Motor During a Network Failure.”
  • To subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating & review, and subscribe.

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

Enjoy this encore presentation of our #3 top episode of 2023! Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Jason Pennington, Director of Digital Solutions at Endress+Hauser, about trends affecting the increasing demand for digital transformation in process automation. Learn about some of the downsides when manufacturing leaders don’t use digital tools; advancements and unique practices in process instrumentation smart technologies; and how Coriolis technology is improving process automation.

Resources:

  • Endress+Hauser Web Page.
  • Contract Endress+Hauser at info.us@endress.com.
  • White Paper on Digitization: “IIoT and Sensing on the Edge.”
  • Blog: Digitalization in the manufacturing world: How level sensors benefit from IIoT connectivity.
  • To subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Video of this conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/w4qwETowO20.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

This is another episode in our “In Case You Missed It” series, where we bring the written word to life by reading an article from The Journal. Executive Editor Theresa Houck reads the case study, “How an Ethanol Producer Increased Capacity by 12%.” Learn how predictive analytics help optimize a closed-loop dryer process so the ethanol producer can meet market demand while reducing energy use and controlling costs.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “How an Ethanol Producer Increased Capacity by 12%.”
  • Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk Analytics Pavilion8 predictive analytics software.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

This week, Executive Editor Theresa Houck and The Journal’s “Automation Chat" team is taking a break for the Thanksgiving holiday in the U.S. We hope our friends inside and outside the U.S. get to enjoy some great time off.

Resources:

  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing your request Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

“Automation Chat” is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. If you like our podcast, please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what we’re covering in our December digital edition of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, which launches Dec. 14.

Learn about how to optimize gas processing and facility throughput, key industrial automation trends, and how virtual modeling helps increase speed-to-market.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing your request Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

This is another episode in our series “In Case You Missed It,” where we bring the written word to life by reading an article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. Executive Editor Theresa Houck reads, “How Industrial Private 5G Enables Digital Transformation.” Testing shows 5G is ready for the EtherNet/IP, standard I/O and safety I/O applications, and can help enable business outcomes such as improved sustainability and agility. Are you ready?

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “How Industrial Private 5G Enables Digital Transformation.”
  • GuardLogix®safety controller from Rockwell Automation.
  • Allen-Bradley FLEX 5000® from Rockwell Automation.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Michael Crepps, Product Application Specialist at Fluke Corp., about Fluke’s 4th Annual Electrical Safety Survey results identifying trends in how electrical workers feel about workplace safety-related topics.

Learn about key takeaways, including needs for more training, development of a strong safety culture that includes knowledge sharing, and providing the right tools and PPE. Also discover some surprising findings.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

  • View the 2023 Annual Fluke Safety in the Workplace Survey results.
  • Visit the Fluke Corp. web site.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing your request Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can watch video of this conversation on YouTube at https://youtu.be/bNVJZ2ux7nQ.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — it helps us a lot, and we really appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

This is another episode in our series “In Case You Missed It,” where Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading an article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. She reads, “See Your Modernization Project’s Big Picture.” Learn how Industrial Learn why and how modernization requires you to take a broad view of not just what technology you’re replacing, but how, so you can plan for the long term.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “See Your Modernization Project’s Big Picture.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what we’re covering in our November digital edition of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, which launches Nov. 4.

Learn about our story on how to enhance continuous improvement in the areas of safety, sustainability and agility. Also get our great preview of the expanded 2023 Automation Fair event, including amazing keynotes, advanced training, off-site tours, a huge expo and more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing your request Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

The popular Automation Fair event looks completely different this year — reimagined, reformatted and expanded to offer more experiences and value to attendees. Get a sneak peek about the new era for Automation Fair, Nov. 6-9 in Boston, as Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Christine Spella, Director of Brand, Communications & Experience at Rockwell Automation.

The show is shifting from a 2-day to a 4-day event. Get details about how it’s combining with the ROKLive, PowerPlex and Process Solutions User Group events and offering remarkable keynotes, advanced training with Professional Development Hour credits, off-site tours, a huge expo, and a lot more.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • 2023 Automation Fair Event Info & Registration.
  • Subscribe to The Journal’s 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing your request Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

You can also watch this conversation on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Fey5BO7n0Fo.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — it helps us a lot, and we really appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, The Journal's Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Dennis Nash, President & CEO of Control Station, about manufacturing process control and PID tuning. You'll learn:

  • What role the PID tuning plays in process manufacturing, and how advances in automation infrastructure have affected the use of PID controllers.
  • The difference between PID tuning and modeling, and how they're related.
  • The most common methods for accessing data used to calculate a model and generate tuning parameters.
  • Advantages and disadvantages of using both historical data and live data.
  • How to use "live historical" data to get the best of both worlds, including cybersecurity.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Learn about Control Station, a Rockwell Automation Technology Partner.
  • Download Control Station's white paper, “Successfully Optimizing Regulatory Controllers Without Risking Data Security.”
  • Check out Control Station's webinars.

You can also watch their conversation on YouTube at https://youtu.be/ynIxCjFMmew.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — it helps us a lot, and we really appreciate it.

“Automation Chat" is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.This is another episode in our series “In Case You Missed It,” where Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. In this episode, Theresa reads, “Tips for Conducting an Annual Lockout/Tagout Audit.”

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “Tips for Conducting an Annual Lockout/Tagout Audit.”
  • Lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures outlined by OSHA standard 1910.147.
  • How do you know who is an authorized employee to conduct LOTO procedures?
  • Subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Feb., May, July and Oct.) by e-mailing your request Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 4 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give “Automation Chat" a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

A VFD cable is a three-phase cable with integrated grounds and a shield. But why can't you just use individual conductors like THHN or THWN and place them in conduit instead of using a VFD cable? Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Steve Wetzel, Senior Product Engineer at Southwire Co., about what kind of wire people use in wire-in-pipe installations, the drawbacks to using wire in pipe, the serious issues this causes, and why VFD cable is a better option.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • Visit Southwire Co. at Booth #526 at the 2023 Automation Fair Event.
  • Learn about Factory Power & Automation | Southwire.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Video of this podcast conversation is available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/1fCcSqeBeoE.

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this episode, The Journal's Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Matt Tellier from Advanced Micro Controls, Inc. (AMCI) about how stepper motors and servo motors work, what comprises each system, and how technology has closed the functionality gap between steppers and servos. Find out types of integrated steppers and their applications, and technical specifications of each to help you choose the right one for your application.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Learn about Rockwell Automation Technology Partner Advanced Micro Controls Inc. (AMCI).

  • Download the AMCI white paper, "Understanding PLC-Based Stepper Motion Control.”
  • Visit AMCI at Booth 687 at Automation Fair.
  • View webinars from AMCI.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/JBgws4K_5qA.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review — it helps us a lot, and we really appreciate it.

Brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our October print magazine that mails Oct, 12.

Learn about upcoming stories on safety, sustainability, and agility; optimizing gas processing; virtual modeling; industry automation trends; and our special 2023 Automation Fair Show Preview.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines by visiting http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Excellence.

The skilled worker shortage is stifling the manufacturing industry. Meanwhile, U.S. military personnel have incredible skills that would be valuable to manufacturers. Learn how the two are brought together by the Academy of Advanced Manufacturing (AAM), a joint initiative created by ManpowerGroup and Rockwell Automation to provide U.S. military veterans with upskilling for advanced manufacturing roles, helping them find jobs and helping manufacturers fill open positions. See how you can participate in the program too.

Also, Jim Rupert tells Executive Editor Theresa Houck how system integrator EOSYS benefits by participating in the AAM program, and U.S. Navy veteran Kyle Radley explains what the training entails and how he got his EOSYS controls engineer job.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

  • Academy of Advanced Manufacturing (AAM).
  • Graduates from the AAM Program are certified in these skills.
  • Apply to the AAM Program with this Application Form.
  • How Rockwell Automation & ManpowerGroup developed the AAM.
  • Learn about System Integrator EOSYS.
  • Visit EOSYS at Booth #786 at Automation Fair.
  • Learn about the Department of Defense Skillbridge Program.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/idrMdhetnsk.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review, and subscribe. Thank you!

View Details

** Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Apex Awards of Excellence.

This is another episode in our series “In Case You Missed It,” where Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. Theresa reads, “Understand the Potential of Digital Thread.” Learn what it is and best practices for implementation.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “Understand the Potential of Digital Thread.”
  • Learn more about digital thread.
  • Gartner's Top Strategic Technology Trends For 2023: Applied Observability Report.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give “Automation Chat" a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our September digital magazine that launches September 21.

Learn about upcoming stories on how topology optimization for parts & components can improve efficiency; why industrial weight indicators are important in weighing applications and support condition monitoring; and how a how a water treatment utility improved reliability by reducing wrong or slow alarm notifications.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and follow us so you don’t miss an episode.

Resources:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

View Details

Named Best Podcast 2 Consecutive Years! 2022 & 2023 Award of Excellence. Learn more.

This is another episode in our series “In Case You Missed It,” where Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. In this episode, Theresa reads, “What You Need from an Edge Computing Platform.”

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “What You Need from an Edge Computing Platform.”
  • On-demand Webinar: "Modernize & Optimize OT with Edge Computing."
  • White Paper: "How to Modernize & Optimize Operational Technology from Plant Floor to Enterprise."
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Please give “Automation Chat" a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

View Details

** 2022 & 2023 Award of Excellence Winner for "Best Podcast," APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

While we take a brief summer break, we're happy to bring you an encore presentation of one of our fan favorites. Enjoy!

Did you know in the U.S., shock is associated with all electrical-related fatalities? In this powerful episode, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats about electrical safety and the misconceptions about shock safety.

She's joined by Mark Pollock, Global Product Manager with Rockwell Automation Technology Partner Littelfuse Inc., and Terry Becker, Electrical Safety Specialist and Management Consultant of TW Becker Electrical Safety Consulting.

Learn about what contributes to severity of a shock; how NFPA 70E and CSA Z462 updates have affected trends in safety incidents: the long-term effects of get shocked; gaps in electrical safety training that need addressed; how industrial GFCIs work; why risk assessments are important; why UL 943C is important; and more.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

  • To subscribe to The Journal's 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

View Details

** 2 Consecutive Awards of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 & 2023 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our August digital magazine that launches August 25. Learn about upcoming stories on how to evaluate motor & drive energy efficiency, how high-performance HMIs can improve process control, plus a Q&A about the skilled worker shortage.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and follow/subscribe so you don’t miss an episode.

Resources from this episode:

  • The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

View Details

If you enjoy “Automation Chat,” please give us a 5-star rating and write a review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

This is another episode in our regular series “In Case You Missed It,” where Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. In this episode, Theresa reads, “Steps for Achieving Lean Maintenance.” Learn how to move maintenance and reliability from a cost center to a value creator.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “Steps for Achieving Lean Maintenance.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

Please leave us a 5-star rating and a review, and subscribe. Thank you!

This “Solutions Spotlight” episode features a great conversation about how manufacturers can achieve their sustainability goals while simultaneously improving productivity and mitigating risk.

Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Wesley Sutton, Global Market Development Lead of Power Systems and Services, and Tadeo Rodriguez, Global Strategic Business Developer, Sustainability, both at Rockwell Automation.

Find out about European carbon regulations that soon will affect North American manufacturers. And learn about Production Automation Solutions, a Rockwell Automation project group that helps users reach sustainability and Environmental Social Governance (ESG) goals.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Contact Wesley Sutton at wcsutton@ra.rockwell.com.
  • Contact Tadeo Rodriguez at Tadeo.Rodriguez@rockwellautomation.com.
  • Web site: Sustainability Solutions from Rockwell Automation.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our July print magazine that mails July 20. Learn about stories on motor & drive efficiency, high-performance HMIs, strategies to deal with the skilled worker shortage, weighing-status indicators that help achieve high precision, and more.

And as usual, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and follow us so you don’t miss an episode.

Additional resources:

  • The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork Magazine Online.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Anna Hicks at ahicks@endeavorbusinessmedia.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this Solution Spotlight episode, learn how to use a repeatable, step-by-step process, called DCSNext, to make sure nothing is missed when migrating legacy systems to modern distributed control systems. Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Nick Kristan, Process Solutions Manager, and Scott Hayes, DCSNext Portfolio Manager, at Rockwell Automation.

Also find out about the Front-End Loading (FEL) framework applied for project investigation, solution planning and feasibility. And discover the key to a successful migration.

And as always, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

  • Contact Nick Kristan, Process Solutions Manager, at nkristan@ra.rockwell.com.
  • Contact Scott Hayes, DCSNext Portfolio Manager, at scott.hayes@mavtechglobal.com.
  • Web Site: Distributed Control System | DCS Migration Solution (mavtechglobal.com).
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines (PDF format) at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Carmela Kappel at ckappel@endeavorb2b.com.

You can also watch their discussion on YouTube at https://youtu.be/N2RlvQKcceI.

Please leave us a 5-star rating and review, and subscribe. Thank you!

Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

If you enjoy “Automation Chat,” please give us a 5-star rating and write review — it helps us, and we really appreciate it.

This another episode in our regular series “In Case You Missed It,” where we bring the written word to life by reading a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

In this episode, the author reads her article! Carol Schafer, Global Senior Marketing Manager of LifeCycle Services at Rockwell Automation, reads, “Now Boarding: Digital Transformation for Process Automation,” from our October 2022 print magazine.

With the true value of modernized continuous and batch operations, you’ll learn why process manufacturers don’t need to fear digital transformation. See how digital systems help address lack of flexibility & agility, unplanned downtime, the skilled worker shortage, cybersecurity threats, and sustainability and compliance needs.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online, “Now Boarding: Digital Transformation for Process Automation”.
  • Web Page: Accelerate Your Potential with the Digital Thread.
  • Blog: See The Connected Enterprise Digital Representations of Assets and Operations Create a Roadmap for Improvement.
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Carmela Kappel at ckappel@endeavorb2b.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines (PDF format) at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

** Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

This is another episode in our regular series “In Case You Missed It,” where Executive Editor Theresa Houck brings the written word to life by reading a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

In this episode, Theresa reads, “How to Control an Electric Motor During a Network Failure.” Learn why programming in the appropriate motor state is crucial to prevent unexpected production losses when network communication issues arise.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day. (Pssst! You get a bonus Joke of the Day in this episode!)

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Resources from this episode:

  • Read the article online: “How to Control an Electric Motor During a Network Failure.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Carmela Kappel at ckappel@endeavorb2b.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

** Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence.

View Details

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our June digital magazine that deploys June 29. Learn about upcoming stories on cloud-based MES in food manufacturing, how VFD cable affects motor performance, tips for secure remote access systems and more.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and Follow/Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode.

Access resources from today’s episode:

  • The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork Magazine Online
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Carmela Kappel at ckappel@endeavorb2b.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

** Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence. Learn more

View Details

** Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence. Learn more.

Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Jason Pennington, Director of Digital Solutions at Endress+Hauser, about trends affecting the increasing demand for digital transformation in process automation. Also learn about some downsides of not taking advantage of digital tools; advancements and unique practices in process instrumentation smart technologies; and how Coriolis technology is improving process automation.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • Endress+Hauser Web Page
  • Contact Endress+Hauser at info.us@endress.com
  • White Paper on Digitization: “IIoT and Sensing on the Edge”
  • White Paper: “

View Details

Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence. Learn more.

his another episode in our regular series “In Case You Missed It,” where Executive Editor Theresa Houck reads a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine that you might not have seen.

In this episode, Theresa reads the article, “Where Do You Start with Industrial Analytics?” Collecting data and turning it into useful information is vital to staying competitive. In this article, you’ll learn how to implement analytics, from those who’ve already done it.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Access resources from this episode:

  • Read the article, “Where Do You Start with Industrial Analytics?”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Carmela Kappel at ckappel@endeavorb2b.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

View Details

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our April print magazine that mails April 20th. Learn about our upcoming stories on asset performance management, motors & drives, remote access systems and digital thread.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Access resources from today’s episode:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Carmela Kappel at ckappel@endeavorb2b.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence. Learn more.

View Details

In this episode from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses important industrial automation trends helping manufacturers and producers with digital transformation and the skilled worker shortage.

Learn about smart technologies and strategies, including more-accessible automation, additive manufacturing, Artificial Intelligence, virtual reality, augmented reality, turnkey robotics, blockchain, wearables and more.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Sign up for the The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork digital magazine.

View Details

Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence. Learn more.

This the first episode in our regular series “In Case You Missed It,” where Executive Editor Theresa Houck reads a great article from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine that can be useful to you.

In this episode, Theresa reads the article, “4 Common Questions About Zero Energy State & LOTO.” For electrical safety, it’s important to understand Zero Energy State, identify all energy going into and out of equipment, neutralize it, and make it safe to service.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Access resources from this episode:

  • Read the article, “4 Common Questions About Zero Energy State & LOTO.”
  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Carmela Kappel at ckappel@endeavorb2b.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

View Details

Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence. Learn more.

In this brief episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck tells you what topics we’re covering in the next issue of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine — our March digital magazine that launches March 31. Learn about our upcoming stories about the skilled worker shortage, PID controller tuning, and a packaging OEM case study.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • To subscribe to our 4 print magazines (Jan., Apr., July and Oct.), e-mail Carmela Kappel at ckappel@endeavorb2b.com.
  • Subscribe to our 8 digital magazines at http://rok.auto/thejournal-subscribe.

View Details

** Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence. Learn more,

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Dave Vasko, Senior Director of Advanced Technology at Rockwell Automation, and Jerry Foster, General Vice President of Research & Chief Technology Officer for Plex Systems, a Rockwell Automation company.

Find out how smart technologies, upskilling and reskilling are 3 keys to dealing with the skilled worker shortage — which is projected to continue to skyrocket — and what that entails, including the need for soft skills like problem solving and adaptability to handle evolving technology and business conditions.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Subscribe to The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

View Details

Winner of the Award of Excellence for Best Podcast from the 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence in Corporate Communications. Learn more,

This episode gives you highlights from the 2022 Automation Fair event hosted by Rockwell Automation in Chicago the week of Nov. 14, which drew a record-setting 15,000+ attendees from around the world. Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses new technologies at the Expo, the hands-on labs & technical sessions, Industry Forums, keynotes and more.

Also learn about expert industry trends discussions, the popular Process Solutions User Group (PSUG), and the Perspectives Day presentations.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • Process Solutions User Group (PSUG) On Demand
  • Automation Fair Virtual Experience On Demand
  • Perspectives Day On Demand
  • CEO and Chairman Blake Moret Keynote Address
  • Automation Fair Show-Floor Videos with Theresa Houck
  • Automation Fair e-Show Daily Articles
  • Some Products at the Show
  • Subscribe to The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

View Details

Back by popular demand! We’re republishing our #1 most popular episode from 2022. It continues to get the most downloads every month. We hope you enjoy it and find it useful.

Winner of the Award of Excellence for Best Podcast from the 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence in Corporate Communications. Learn more.

In this episode from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck details the steps some manufacturers are taking to successfully build resilience and agility into their supply chain so they can recover from a shortage of people, products or capacity. You’ll learn the common thread in all of them is the use of digital solutions, data analytics and IT/OT convergence.

It’s useful to understand how and why the supply chain disruptions happen so you can evaluate your processes and technologies to minimize the impact. Theresa reviews the domino effect that started when COVID-19 hit in 2020, then examines ongoing factors that continue to resonate.

She examines catastrophic effects on the food and beverage industry, including the price and availability of bread, meat and eggs, and how food security is threatened in many parts of the world. Also learn about the semiconductor chip & other electronics and automobile industries.

Learn the real reasons behind The Great Resignation cited by MIT data and other research, and the strategies some manufacturers are using to streamline work and improve productivity and worker satisfaction.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please subscribe and leave us a 5-star rating.

Subscribe to The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

View Details

** Winner of the Award of Excellence for Best Podcast from the 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence in Corporate Communications. Learn more,

The popular 2022 Automation Fair event is the week of November 14 in Chicago. Learn about the wealth of educational sessions and technology demonstrations as Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Andi Stelpflug, Rockwell Automation Events, Experiences, Travel Industry Leader, who provides a sneak peek at the event and talks about 6 awesome things to look forward to during the event.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

• 2022 Automation Fair Event Info & Registration. • Subscribe to The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

Video of this special podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/DZibYZkxbe0.

View Details

** Award of Excellence Winner for Best Podcast, 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence in Corporate Communications. Learn more.

Variable-frequency (VFD) cable shielding protects the cable, machinery and workers by reducing electrical noise’s effects on signals, lowering electromagnetic radiation and preventing crosstalk between cables. In this episode, learn best practices for terminating and grounding the shield of a VFD cable in the field.

Executive Editor Theresa Houck chats with Brad Pollard, Vice President of Sales for Automation Products and Steve Wetzel, Senior Product Engineer at Southwire Co. Also discover the common questions they get from electrical contractors in the field. See if you should do anything special for grounding cables at intermediate termination boxes. And find out what Rockwell Automation recommends for terminating VFD cables.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

• Visit Southwire Co. at Booth #627 at the 2022 Automation Fair Event.

• White Paper: Terminating Variable-Frequency Drive (VFD) Cables.

• Video: Proper Termination of VFD Cables.

• White Paper: Begin with the End in Mind: Proper VFD Cable Termination.

• Video: VFD Termination Kit Installation.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

Video of this special podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/jLPqLVvwMRg.

View Details

** Winner of the Award of Excellence for Best Podcast from the 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence in Corporate Communications. Learn more,

Did you know Rockwell Automation has a global network of prominent companies that provide products and services compatible with Rockwell Automation solutions? It's called the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork, and these technology suppliers, system integrators, OEMs and distributors collaborate to provide the right automation and manufacturing solution for customers.

In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Johannes zu Eltz, Vice President of Global Market Access with Rockwell Automation. He explains how and why the company has built this powerful ecosystem of collaborating companies. Here’s a hint: It’s all about the customer.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

• Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork Program. • 2022 Automation Fair Event Info & Registration. • Subscribe to The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

Video of this special podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/cuva3Cge9tg.

View Details

** Winner of the 2022 Award of Excellence for Best Podcast from the 2022 APEX Awards of Publication Excellence in Corporate Communications. Learn more.

In this episode of award-winning “Automation Chat,” Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Dr. Al Beydoun, President and Executive Director of ODVA, a leading standards development organization and membership association. After listening to this podcast, you’ll walk away understanding what Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and Ethernet-APL are and what implementation looks like.

Find out what makes them unique, technical benefits and trends motivating manufacturers to increase their adoption, and their impact on smart manufacturing.

Also learn 5 major ways SPE and Ethernet-APL help engineers, how they affect cabling and network topologies, and how ODVA works with industry suppliers and associations on standards development.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • ODVA EtherNet/IP Network Specification for Ethernet-APL Physical Layer for Process Automation
  • EtherNet/IP Network Extended to In-Cabinet Resource Constrained Devices
  • CIP Security Enhanced to Support Resource-Constrained EtherNet/IP Devices
  • ODVA The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe.

Video of this special podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/thoFPzIwno0.

View Details

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

It’s vital for industrial firms and municipalities that use water in their processes to maintain regulatory compliance while helping to mitigate the global water shortage. In this episode, Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses the role of digital technologies in helping organization achieve their water sustainability goals, including trends supporting their activities. She’s joined by Damon Sepe, Rockwell Automation Business Development Manager.

In their eye-opening chat, you’ll learn:

  1. Why water sustainability has become a top priority for many companies.
  2. What types of water organizations there are besides municipalities, and why they’re motivated to improve water sustainability.
  3. The challenges they face achieving sustainability goals.
  4. Trends in water wastewater and digital technologies, also called smart water, and how the trends influence how they achieve their goals.
  5. Why we don’t see greater global adoption of desalination treatment.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • Rockwell Automation 2021 Sustainability Report
  • Rockwell Automation Sustainable Solutions
  • Smart Water Solutions from Rockwell Automation
  • Subscribe to The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

Video of this podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/pORjisLS03k.

View Details

Process instrumentation is critical to process management. In this insightful Q&A, Ryan Williams, Strategic Business Manager for Digital Solutions at Endress+Hauser, talks with Executive Editor Theresa Houck about how to integrate IIoT data into your process operations to drive collaboration and optimize analytics. Also learn about strategies to organize, secure and share data gathered from sensors, control systems and monitoring systems, and what data visualization tools operators can use to help improve decision-making.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources from this episode:

  • Case Study: Smart Monitoring System for IIoT Improves City’s Water Treatment & Storage.
  • Industry Perspective Q&A with Theresa Houck (pdf).
  • Video of this special podcast conversation on our YouTube channel.
  • Endress+Hauser Website.
  • Subscribe to The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

View Details

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe.

In this episode of “Automation Chat,” Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses advanced analytics in industrial automation and their role in improving business results for any size company. She is joined by Chirayu Shah, Rockwell Automation Product Head of Edge to Cloud & Analytics.

Learn about descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and cognitive analytics and why they're important to your organization as well as your specific job role.

Find out how to understand the context of your data; how edge and cloud technologies are processing data at much higher rates, supporting AI and machine learning to improve efficiency and business results. Get real-world examples of how manufacturers are using analytics.

And find out key trends and why they matter to you.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • FactoryTalk®Analytics™ software platform.
  • ROKLive event, June 13-16, 2022, Orlando.
  • Subscribe to The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork’s digital magazine.

Video of this special podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/s9KcmUlXqR4.

View Details

In this episode from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses 2022 industrial automation trends affecting manufacturers and producers on their digital transformation journey.

Learn about the strategies and smart technologies companies are using to improve agility, productivity and performance — especially to help deal with the challenges of COVID-19, supply chain disruptions and skilled labor shortages that have arisen in recent years.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • Case Study: Kraft Heinz, AB-InBev Share Their DX Journeys, from The Journal’s April 2022 print magazine.
  • Special Report: How to Keep Up with — and Contribute to — SPE Standards.
  • 2022 Supply Chain Reliability eBook, from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.
  • 2022 Automation Fair Event, Nov . 16-17, Chicago.
  • Sign up for the e-newsletter from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.

View Details

In this episode from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck details the steps some manufacturers are taking to successfully build resilience and agility into their supply chain so they can recover from a shortage of people, products or capacity. Our hope is that some of these can help you. You’ll learn the common thread in all of them is the use of digital solutions, data analytics and IT/OT convergence.

Agility allows you to make faster changes, and will help verify the right cost, service and quality given external market factors. Resilience will mitigate the impact of disruption where there are potential points of failure.

It’s useful to understand how and why the supply chain disruptions happen so you can evaluate your processes and technologies to minimize the impact. Theresa reviews the domino effect that started when COVID-19 hit in 2020, then examines ongoing factors that continue to resonate — including the China lockdown due to a COVID resurgence, labor shortages, a recent earthquake in Japan, the truck driver shortage, and particularly, the Russia/Ukraine war.

She examines catastrophic effects on the food and beverage industry, including the price and availability of bread, meat and eggs, and how food security is threatened in many parts of the world. Also learn about the semiconductor chip & other electronics and automobile industries, with reduced production in China, Europe and the United States that delay production and increase supplier and OEM costs.

Learn the real reasons behind The Great Resignation cited by MIT data and other research. And see how some manufacturers are successfully using cross-training, upskilling, labor-supporting technology like robotics or AGVs, and other strategies to streamline work and improve productivity and worker satisfaction.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

To learn more about how to build resiliency into your supply chain, download our newly released 2022 Supply Chain Reliability eBook.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • 2022 Supply Chain Reliability eBook, from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
  • Sign up for the e-newsletter from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.

View Details

In this episode of “Automation Chat” from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck discusses the gray market — products sold legally, but outside of the brand's permission. This isn’t an issue limited to just Rockwell Automation; it applies to all industrial automation suppliers.

What’s the difference between an Authorized Distributor and the gray market? Are counterfeit products really a big problem? And how can you tell if a product is counterfeit — or can you? What’s the harm in buying refurbished or used parts and equipment from an “unauthorized” source?

Theresa chats with Ryan Smaglik, Head of Revenue and Brand Protection at Rockwell Automation. He’s well-versed on what’s happening in the gray market, the risks of acquiring products through an unsecured supply chain, the ramifications those products can have for users, and examples of bad experiences customers have had. You’ll find his insights to be eye-opening.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Access more resources from today’s episode:

  • Allen-Bradley® Authorized Distributors.
  • Technology Partners in the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork™ Program.
  • 2022 Supply Chain Reliability eBook, from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.
  • Sign up for the e-newsletter from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork.

Video of this special podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/zoCjff3LbCo.

View Details

We’re thrilled to bring you this EXCLUSIVE interview with Gina Ayala Claxton, the new President for the Americas Region at Rockwell Automation, who just started in January. She chats with Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Part of Gina’s new role is to help make the customer experience easier. Find out what this means for current and future customers. She also explains why building high-performance teams requires diversity not only in race, gender and other traditional ways, but in thought. And learn what it means to her to be the first Latina President for the Americas, and how she plans to continue her advocacy for equality and inclusion.

They also chat about the unique relationship of Rockwell Automation, its Authorized Allen-Bradley® Distributors, and companies in the Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork™ program for delivering products to customers.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Get more resources here:

  • Rockwell Automation Press Release about Gina Ayala Claxton’s Appointment
  • Follow Gina Ayala Claxton on LinkedIn
  • Sign up for e-newsletters from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Video of this special podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/VAtgdxGIkLw.

View Details

In this episode of “Automation Chat” from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, Executive Editor Theresa Houck reviews highlights from the 2021 Automation Fair® event, hosted by Rockwell Automation Nov. 10-11 in Houston. Learn about the 100+ exhibits from Rockwell Automation and companies in its PartnerNetwork, the event’s hands-on labs, training sessions, industry-focused forums, and keynote presentations. Also learn about 3 trends evident from the technology on display on the show floor.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Access more resources about today’s episode:

  • Process Solutions User Group (PSUG) Meeting
  • Automation Fair website
  • The Journal’s 2021 Industry Trends & Automation Fair Directory eBook
  • Video: Automation Fair Product Highlights
  • The Journal’s RealWear “Automation Chat” Podcast: Listen on your favorite podcast app, on the web, or watch the chat on YouTube
  • The Journal’s Claroty “Automation Chat” Podcast: Listen on your favorite podcast app, on the web, or watch our chat on YouTube
  • The Journal’s October Automation Fair Directory of Exhibitors
  • Sign up for e-newsletters from The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork

View Details

We’re excited to re-share our top episode of 2021! This is my chat with Grant Geyer at Claroty about he Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack that happened in May.

Please follow us, and rate us and give us a review. And enjoy this #1 episode of the year!

The ransomware attack that shut down the Colonial Pipeline on May 7, 2021, is considered the most impactful cyberattack against U.S. critical infrastructure to date, but it’s not the only one. Many infrastructure and manufacturing facility cyberattacks occur that we don’t hear about.

So in this episode, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Grant Geyer, Chief Product Officer at Claroty, a leading industrial cybersecurity firm. They examine how the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack happened, as well as how the February 2021 Oldsmar, Florida water treatment cyberattack occurred, and the far-reaching effects. Also learn about the importance of the asset operator as the first line of defense.

Also learn about the asset operator’s role as the first line of defense; how converged IT/OT networks are vital for ICS efficiency, but also increase the attack surface available — and what to do about it; the technical and organizational features of a well-thought-out cyber defense; lessons learned that are useful for every industrial firm and critical infrastructure facility. And more.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

• Blog: Ongoing Colonial Pipeline Attack Unprecedented Against U.S. Critical Infrastructure • ICS Risk & Vulnerability Report, with data points pertaining to the energy sector • Claroty website

View Details

As 2021 winds down, we’re re-sharing our top episodes of the year. This is my chat with Allan Rentcome at Sensia about how oil and gas companies are investing in digital automation.

Please follow us, and rate us and give us a review. Enjoy this #2 episode of 2021!

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Allan Rentcome, CEO of Sensia, the first fully integrated oilfield automation solutions provider.

They talk about how the economic downturn has affected the oil and gas industry, especially with COVID-19; how oil and gas companies are investing in digital automation; the role digital technologies will play in the next few years; how to get meaningful views into real-time production data; and more.

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/jDWVTd3xF8M.

View Details

As we near the end of 2021, we’re re-sharing our top episodes of the year. This is my chat with Andrew Chrostowski at Realwear about wearable computers.

And be sure to follow us, and rate us and give us a review — it really helps, and we sincerely appreciate it. Now enjoy our #3 episode of 2021!

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Andrew Chrostowski, Chairman of the Board and CEO of RealWear. They talk about how head-mounted, hands-free wearable tablet computers are helping with workforce challenges, including the retiring workforce and increased remote workers because of pandemic, as well as efficiency and safety.

They also talk about the role of the “connected worker,” typical applications such as maintenance and operations, and what kind of problems wearable computers are designed to help with. Also see how your work will change as wearable communications become more common, how the role of wearable computers will expand in the next few years, and more.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

  • Video: RealWear Intrinsically Safe HMT-1Z1s with Microsoft Teams for U.S. Plant Operators
  • RealWear Products
  • RealWear Website
  • MicroSoft Teams for RealWear

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/FsrfGrcXR2E.

View Details

As 2021 winds down, we’re re-sharing our top episodes of the year. This is my chat with my buddy Steve at Southwire about termination and grounding of VFD cables.

And be sure to follow us, and rate us and give us a review — it really helps, and we appreciate it. Now enjoy this #4 episode of 2021!

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, talks with Steve Wetzel, Senior Product Engineer with Southwire Co., about terminating and grounding variable-frequency drive (VFD) cables. Learn why cable termination is so important, why cables often are terminated incorrectly, and how to achieve proper termination. Discover the best way to terminate a VFD cable’s shield and ground wires, and how to terminate VFD cable coming into and going out of intermediate termination boxes such as quick disconnects.

And find out one concept Steve wishes all users understood about VFD cables.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

  • Podcast: “How VFD Cable Really Affects Motor Performance” on your favorite podcast app or watch on YouTube.
  • White Paper: “All About VFD Cables.”
  • Southwire Company.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/0kkInWUQczg.

View Details

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, talks with Steve Wetzel, Senior Product Engineer with Southwire Co., about terminating and grounding variable-frequency drive (VFD) cables. Learn why cable termination is so important, why cables often are terminated incorrectly, and how to achieve proper termination. Discover the best way to terminate a VFD cable’s shield and ground wires, and how to terminate VFD cable coming into and going out of intermediate termination boxes such as quick disconnects.

And find out one concept Steve wishes all users understood about VFD cables.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

  • Podcast: “How VFD Cable Really Affects Motor Performance” on your favorite podcast app or watch on YouTube
  • White Paper: “All About VFD Cables”
  • Southwire Company

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/0kkInWUQczg.

View Details

In this special “Tech Spotlight” episode of Automation Chat, Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Max Davitt, Technical Support & Applications Engineer at LinMot USA, a Rockwell Automation Technology Partner.

You’ll learn about the company’s PR02 linear rotary motor, which has a new design in which the motors and components are integrated in a slim housing. Options include a magnetic spring “MagSpring,” a torque sensor and a force sensor. Common applications include capping in food & beverage or pharmaceutical industries; it’s also used in automotive, packaging and other operations.

Get more resources here:

  • LinMot USA Inc.
  • PR02 Stainless Steel Linear Rotary Motors

If you like “Automation Chat,” please give us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/35qP2zjaZQw.

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

In this special “Tech Spotlight” episode of Automation Chat, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Tom McKinney, Director, Engineering Services and Partnerships with HMS Networks, a Rockwell Automation Technology Partner.

You’ll learn about the company’s eWON Flexy, the first industrial modular machine-to-machine router and data gateway for OEMs and system integrators. Users can link remote devices and establish universal communication with a variety of field equipment, regardless of protocol used. See how to enable alarm notifications or performance monitoring through cloud KPIs dashboards. Also, discover how to start a remote service journey.

Access more resources here:

  • Azure Connected Machine On-Demand Webinar
  • Machine Telemetry Solutions for ThingWorx On-Demand Webinar
  • HMS Networks

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Video of this “Tech Spotlight” episode chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/vgeU90O_rkE.

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

You’ve heard of digital twins, but do you really know how they work? It’s a big deal. Find out how they’re used for industrial automation design, in this chat with Chris Harduwar, Vice President of Automation with Maplesoft, and Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine.

Also learn why designers swear by digital twins for virtual modeling because of how they streamline production and commissioning. Get examples of them at work in injection molding, food, packaging and other applications. Chris also addresses reasons some people hesitate to use digital twins. And get his insights about digital twins’ next evolution.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

  • White Paper: Using Virtual Commissioning to Develop Faster, Safer Machines for Less
  • Products Mentioned: MapleSim Software by Maplesoft
  • Learn more about Virtual Commissioning with MapleSim and Rockwell Automation Studio 5000

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode.

Video of this podcast conversation is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/NzsobIIauqo.

View Details

In this special “Tech Spotlight” episode of Automation Chat, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Kevin Reed, Technical Support & Applications Engineer at LinMot USA, a Rockwell Automation Technology Partner.

They talk about the company’s intelligent SSCP stainless steel linear motors, designed for applications with high demands on materials and protection class, such as pharmaceutical and food & beverage. They discuss the motors’ composition and how they operate; guided options; assembly configurations; and applications for these corrosion-resistant motors.

Access more resources here:

  • LinMot USA Inc.
  • Stainless Steel Linear Motors SSCP
  • Stainless Steel Linear Modules SM01

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/51DKUUCMg-4.

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Warehouse automation is an early adopter of smart technologies that enable innovative digital transformation. Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Mike Berg, Solutions Marketing Manager - Industrial Automation with Panduit, about industry trends putting increased pressure on warehouses and distribution centers.

They examine new technologies that make them more efficient, reliable, and better equipped to handle demand – especially with the substantial growth in online ordering since COVID-19 hit. You might be surprised at the high-tech operations inside a fulfillment center.

Also learn about the network infrastructure required to support those technologies, and what manufacturers can learn from warehouse automation.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

  • Panduit Warehouse Automation Solutions
  • Rockwell Automation and Panduit Strategic Alliance
  • Special Report: How to Keep Up with - and Contribute to - Single Pair Ethernet Standards

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/GvjJD2btcq4.

View Details

In this “Tech Spotlight” episode of Automation Chat, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Adam Shank, Regional Sales Engineer at LinMot USA, a Rockwell Automation Technology Partner.

They talk about the company’s DM01 industrial linear modules for the pharmaceutical industry. You’ll learn how direct-drive system eliminates the need for high-wear components such as belts, screws, cams, or gears, and thus reduces maintenance and extends service life.

Access more resources here:

  • LinMot USA Inc.
  • DM01 Linear Modules

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and subscribe.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/MyWNdci6CyI.  

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

In this special “Tech Spotlight” episode of Automation Chat, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Aaron Severa, Product Manager for HMI, FieldConnex and Remote IO at Pepperl+Fuchs, a Rockwell Automation Technology Partner. They discuss two of the company’s HMI systems.

The new VisuNet GXP HMI for Zone 1 hazardous applications, and an option for Zone 2 and for Division 2 locations, is a modular platform comprised of a few individually protected and certified components. Also see the VisuNet Edge HMI for Division 1 areas. Learn how they both integrate with Rockwell Automation ThinManager thin client software.

Access more resources here:

  • Pepperl+Fuchs
  • VisuNet GXP HMI
  • VisuNet Edge HMI
  • Rockwell Automation ThinManager Thin Client Software

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a 5-star rating and a review.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/wZidwxGdiY8.

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Mark Zeller, sales and customer service director at Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL), a Rockwell Automation Digital Partner.

They discuss how digital protective relays gather and use data for electrical protection in manufacturing plants, and how to download the data. Also see examples of how the information can help you monitor health of devices connected to your power system, and thus predict problems before they occur, such as a circuit or motor failure.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

  • Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. (SEL)
  • Webinars from SEL
  • White Papers from SEL

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a good rating and a review.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/ny1NukGKfaA.

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Damon Sepe, Business Development Manager at Rockwell Automation, about digital transformation and smart water initiatives for the water wastewater industry.

They discuss why we need smart water initiatives, and where investments are increasing across hardware, software and services. You’ll also learn what 3 key areas comprise digital solutions for smart water plants; why cyberthreats are a real concern; and how the COVID pandemic has affected water infrastructure.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

  • Rockwell Automation Automated Water Wastewater Systems
  • Case Study: City of Lima Wastewater Treatment Plant’s Operations Flow Smoothly After DCS Migration: https://bit.ly/3dccroL.

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a good rating and a review.

Video of this podcast chat is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/4ci3r3FXcfs.

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

The ransomware attack that shut down the Colonial Pipeline on May 7, 2021, is considered the most impactful cyberattack against U.S. critical infrastructure to date, but it’s not the only one. Many infrastructure and manufacturing facility cyberattacks occur that we don’t hear about.

So in this episode, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Grant Geyer, Chief Product Officer at Claroty, a leading industrial cybersecurity firm and a Rockwell Automation Digital Partner. They examine how the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack happened, as well as how the February 2021 Oldsmar, Florida water treatment cyberattack occurred, and the far-reaching effects. Also learn about the importance of the asset operator as the first line of defense.

Also learn about the asset operator’s role as the first line of defense; how converged IT/OT networks are vital for ICS efficiency, but also increase the attack surface available — and what to do about it; the technical and organizational features of a well-thought-out cyber defense; lessons learned that are useful for every industrial firm and critical infrastructure facility. And much more.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

• Blog: Ongoing Colonial Pipeline Attack Unprecedented Against U.S. Critical Infrastructure: https://claroty.com/2021/05/10/blog-research-colonial-pipeline • Blog: Implications of the Cybersecurity Executive Order for Industrial Enterprises: https://claroty.com/2021/05/13/blog-cybersecurity-executive-order • ICS Risk & Vulnerability Report, with data points pertaining to the energy sector: https://security.claroty.com/biannual-ics-risk-vulnerability-report-2H-2020 • Claroty website: https://claroty.com

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a rating and a review.

Tell your friends and peers about “Automation Chat,” and hit the “share” symbol to share your favorite episode so others can benefit from these fun and useful discussions.

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/rFxa2-wyquw.

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Andrew Chrostowski, Chairman of the Board and CEO of RealWear, a Rockwell Automation Technology Partner. They talk about how head-mounted, hands-free wearable tablet computers are helping with workforce challenges, including the retiring workforce and increased remote workers because of pandemic, as well as efficiency and safety.

They also talk about the role of the “connected worker,” typical applications such as maintenance and operations, and what kind of problems wearable computers are designed to help with. Also see how your work will change as wearable communications become more common, how the role of wearable computers will expand in the next few years, and more.

And of course, you get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

  • Video: RealWear Intrinsically Safe HMT-1Z1s with Microsoft Teams for U.S. Plant Operators: https://youtu.be/KqL-iMlBKjE
  • RealWear Rolls Out Enterprise Wearables to Link Auto Maker Maintenance Teams: https://www.realwear.com/newsroom/press-releases/groupe-psa/
  • RealWear Products: https://shop.realwear.com/
  • RealWear Website: https://locator.rockwellautomation.com/Technology/CompanyDetails/90fe0ac9-bc37-ea11-a813-000d3a8db64a
  • MicroSoft Teams for RealWear: https://www.realwear.com/solutions/microsoft-teams/

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a rating and a review.

Tell your friends and peers about “Automation Chat,” and hit the “share” symbol to share your favorite episode so others can benefit from these fun and useful discussions.

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/FsrfGrcXR2E.

The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine: http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/SVEzPU5TVGU.

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats about all things edge computing with Jason Andersen, Vice President of Strategy and Product Management at Stratus Technologies, a Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner.

We answer the question many people have: What is edge computing, and how is it different from the cloud? You’ll learn how to know if it will help you, with considerations for types of applications and the amount and speed of data collection. We chat about what’s involved in implementing edge computing and examples of edge computing at work in real companies. Jason also describes how OEMs are using edge computing to provide new capabilities for customers.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

  • Edge Computing Trend Report: https://bit.ly/35vTmKY
  • eBook: Edge Computing for Dummies: https://bit.ly/3f2MtUH
  • Stratus Technologies Website: www.stratus.com

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a rating and a review on your podcast app.

And tell your friends and peers about us. You can even hit the share symbol to share your favorite episode with others.

Video of this episode is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/SVEzPU5TVGU.

Visit The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online at http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/u0KHNsflR-E.

In this episode of “Automation Chat,” Executive Editor Theresa Houck talks with Dave Sexton with Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner Imperx, Inc. We talk about trends in machine vision — specifically, industrial camera technology trends happening now, the exciting advancements to come, and what those developments mean to you and your production line.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

  • Imperx, Inc.: www.imperx.com
  • White Paper — Advantages of Using Rugged Integrated IP67 Cameras in Industrial Applications: https://bit.ly/tj2020imperxwp

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a good rating and review on your app.

And tell your friends and peers about “Automation Chat.” You can even hit the Share symbol to share your favorite episode with others.

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/u0KHNsflR-E.

Visit The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online at http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/vIg1yIGbtsM.

Did you know that in the last 5 years, the #1 reason for recalls has been because of mislabeled products?

Printing equipment sometimes is not considered a resource that generates revenue. But if a printer goes down, no product is going out the door. In this episode of “Automation Chat,” Executive Editor Theresa Houck is joined by Adem Kulazovic, Director of Product Management at Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner Domino Amjet, to talk about how coding automation can help improve productivity, reduce errors and avoid unplanned downtime.

Coding automation means automating the manual process of ensuring the correct information is printed on the right products and packages, reducing human error in label selection and management, then integrating that data with existing ERP or SCADA systems. We also chat about the importance of industrial communications standards such as Fieldbus for communication and data sharing; and more.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

  • Domino Amjet: www.domino-printing.com
  • White Paper — Industry 4.0 and the Food Processing Industry: Building the case for coding integration: https://bit.ly/3bbF8yu

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a good rating and review on your app.

And tell your peers about “Automation Chat.” You can even hit the Share symbol to share your favorite episode with others.

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/vIg1yIGbtsM.

Visit The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online at http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/DO9rTNyvkbs.

“Automation Chat” is hosted by Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. In this episode, I chat with Jeff Kilburn, Managing Director of the U.S. Business, and Thomas Michels, Global Director with EPLAN’s Cloud Business Software, with Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner EPLAN Software & Service.

We talk about how the COVID-19 pandemic has created a stronger need for electrical engineers to have remote capabilities; ways engineers have used these challenging times to rethink their work and workflows; and how to adapt to producing at a faster pace required by PPE needs and consumer product demands the pandemic has created. Also learn what to do when engineers are hesitant to work in the cloud for electrical design, and what to do if you don’t think you’re ready for a full set of automated processes.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

• EPLAN Software & Service: www.eplanusa.com • Video: Use the Right Tools for Controls Design: https://youtu.be/5t72vYEdhsA

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a good rating and review on your app.

And tell your friends and peers about “Automation Chat.” You can even hit the Share symbol to share your favorite episode with others.

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/DO9rTNyvkbs.

Visit The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online at http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/xlfHaGN7rdg.

“Automation Chat” is hosted by Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. In this episode, I talk with Steve Wetzel, Senior Product Engineer and Brad Pollard, Vice President of Sales for Automation Products, with Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner Southwire.

Learn how VFD cable can improve manufacturing process performance. We talk about how VFD cable controls common-mode current and addresses electromagnetic interference (EMI). We talk about different types of VFD cable, and you’ll see examples of cable and terminating kits. Also learn how the wrong cable can cause EMI, premature motor failure, drive trips and other problems; why termination is vital for VFD cable use and what happens when it’s not terminated properly; and what conditions might call for a reactor or sine wave filter.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Additional resources:

  • Southwire YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/SouthwireChannel
  • White Paper: “Begin with the End in Mind — Proper VFD Cable Termination.” http://bit.ly/TJ20VFDcabwp
  • Southwire Website: www.southwire.com

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a good rating and review on your app.

And tell your friends and peers about “Automation Chat.” You can even hit the Share symbol to share your favorite episode with others.

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/xlfHaGN7rdg.

Visit The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine online at http://rok.auto/thejournal.

View Details

Did you know that temperature gun nurses are using to see if you have COVID-19 before you enter a medical facility is a pyrometer?

It’s true. Learn about that and more in this episode as host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Mark Ritzheimer and Robb Weeks from Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner Advanced Energy Industries.

They talk about how precision electric power products have evolved and how to measure precise temperatures in demanding industrial heating environments. Learn the definition of a pyrometer and a SCR power controller. Find out about specific industrial applications that use these technologies, including automotive, oil and gas, chemical and plastics, semiconductor and electronics, glass, and metals. Also learn about challenges you might run into when adopting the technology, when to use thermocouples and more.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Resources:

  • Advanced Energy: http://bit.ly/2QADbDn
  • Advanced Energy Pyrometers: www.advancedenergy.com/products/temperature-measurement/
  • Advanced Energy SCR Power Controllers: www.advancedenergy.com/products/scr-power-controllers/

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a rating and a review on your podcast app.

Please tell your friends and peers about “Automation Chat.” You can even hit the share symbol to share your favorite episode with others.

Videos of our podcasts are available on our YouTube channel at http://bit.ly/tjrayoutube.

View Details

Host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats with Allan Rentcome, CEO at Sensia, the first fully integrated oilfield automation solutions provider. We talk about how the economic downturn has affected the oil and gas industry, especially with COVID-19; how oil and gas companies are investing in digital automation; the role digital technologies will play in the next few years; how to get meaningful views into real-time production data; and more.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources:

  • Rockwell Automation and Sensia Joint Venture: www.rockwellautomation.com/en-us/industries/oil-gas.html
  • Video: What Makes Sensia Different? https://player.vimeo.com/video/363750643
  • Achieve the Full Potential of Your Oil & Gas Assets brochure: www.sensiaglobal.com/Sensia/media/General/Brochures/Sensia_Brochure.pdf
  • Sensia Website: www.sensiaglobal.com
  • Sensia Process Automation Solutions: www.sensiaglobal.com/Sensia-Process-Automation-Solutions

If you like “Automation Chat,” please leave us a rating and a review on your podcast app.

And tell your friends and peers about “Automation Chat,” and hit the share symbol to share your favorite episode with others.

Video of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/jDWVTd3xF8M.

View Details

In this special episode, we bring you a guest discussion from another podcast “Control Amplified,” by our sister magazine, Control. This chat is so good that we’re sharing it with you. John Clemons, director of manufacturing IT at system integrator Maverick Technologies, a Rockwell Automation company, talks with Jim Montague, Control’s Executive Editor, about recent developments with the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), how it's enabled by edge and cloud computing, and how users can employ it for digital transformation, especially in light of the COVID-19 crisis.

Get a full transcript of this episode here.

The “Control Amplified” podcast is hosted by Control editors Jim Montague and Keith Larson and is available for download on most podcast listening apps, or you can listen on ControlGlobal.com.

“Automation Chat” is brought to you by The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. Contact Executive Editor Theresa Houck at thouck@putman.net.

View Details

Did you know that in the United States, shock is associated with all electrical-related fatalities? In this powerful episode, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats about electrical safety and the misconceptions about shock safety.

I’m joined by 2 guests: Mark Pollock, Global Product Manager with Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner Littelfuse Inc., and Terry Becker, Electrical Safety Specialist and Management Consultant of TW Becker Electrical Safety Consulting.

We talk about what contributes to severity of a shock; how NFPA 70E and CSA Z462 updates have affected trends in safety incidents: the long-term effects of get shocked; gaps in electrical safety training that urgently need addressed; how industrial GFCIs work; why risk assessments are important and how to conduct them; why UL 943C is important; and more.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

  • “Misconceptions of Shock” On-Demand Webinar from Littelfuse and TW Becker Electrical Safety Consulting: https://bit.ly/2VlPiHB
  • More webcasts and additional content: www.littelfuse.com/industrialsafety

Contact Theresa Houck at thouck@putman.net.

View Details

In this fun, informative conversation, host Theresa Houck, Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine, chats about digital twins and virtual commissioning with Chris Harduwar, Vice President of Automation at Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner Maplesoft.

We talk about how to use virtual commissioning and digital twins to improve machine development; how digital twins work; how companies would evaluate if virtual commissioning would be a useful tool for them; examples of applications; the difference between the company’s multi-domain system modeling tool called MapleSim and the Rockwell Automation Emulate3D solution; and more.

And of course, get your family-friendly, silly Joke of the Day.

Access more resources here:

  • Maplesoft’s 2019 Automation Fair video: http://bit.ly/2QADbDn
  • White Paper: Digital Twins for Digital Commissioning: https://bit.ly/3frpodc
  • Virtual Commissioning with MapleSim and Studio 5000: https://bit.ly/2YK3Y47
  • Maplesoft’s Rockwell Automation Encompass Product Partner web page: http://bit.ly/tjmaplesoft

Contact Theresa Houck at thouck@putman.net.

View Details

Host Theresa Houck chats with Matt Tellier from Advanced Micro Controls, Inc. about motion control. Learn how specialty I/O modules, position sensing and motion control technology has evolved, networking trends, and how the COVID-19 virus could create supply chain and just-in-time manufacturing challenges. View the AMCI on-demand webinars hosted by Matt, DLR Technology for Allen-Bradley PLCs and EtherNet/IP Programming Made Easy Using EDS.

And, get your silly Joke of the Day.

View Details

Join me, Theresa Houck, for Automation Chat, where I talk with industrial automation leaders and practitioners to get their insights about technologies and trends affecting manufacturing and industrial automation professionals. I’m Executive Editor of The Journal From Rockwell Automation and Our PartnerNetwork magazine. We chat about digital transformation, analytics & information management, networks & security, motors & electrical systems, workforce challenges and more.