Practical Perspective Blogs

Inferencing vs Learning: Why a Shift in the Way AI is Being Used will Shape the Infrastructure that Supports it

May 29, 2026

AI is entering a new phase in which inference matters more than training. Learn the differences between the two, and how this shift will impact data center power use, facility design, and infrastructure strategies moving forward.

M8V Series CNC: Technical Capabilities, Integration, and Selection Considerations

May 14, 2026

Selecting the right CNC platform can impact productivity, usability, and long-term flexibility. Learn how the M8V Series CNC supports high performance machining, intuitive operation, and smarter manufacturing workflows. Discover whether it is the right fit for your application.

What Happens During an Automation Assessment? A Day-in-the-Plant Walkthrough

May 06, 2026

Considering automation, but not sure where to start? This blog walks through a real factory automation assessment so you know exactly what to expect and how it turns insights into action. Read on to see how an assessment can uncover efficiency gains and smarter investment paths, and how to get started.

Lift Station Modernization: Solving Municipal Wastewater Challenges with Data Driven Control

Apr 28, 2026

Aging lift stations do not have to mean higher costs and constant emergencies. Learn how modern controls, VFDs, and SCADA help municipalities improve reliability, efficiency, and visibility without a full system overhaul.

Lights-Out Manufacturing Starts with Robotic Machine Tending: A Practical Blueprint

Apr 21, 2026

Lights-out manufacturing does not have to start with massive system overhauls. Learn how robotic machine tending provides a practical, proven path to unattended CNC machining that shops can implement today.

Anti-Sway VFDs for Cranes: Keep Throughput High When Skilled Operators are Scarce

Apr 02, 2026

Struggling to find experienced crane operators? Mitsubishi Electric’s FR-E800 VFDs take the complexity out of crane motion with sensorless anti-sway, smooth speed control, and built-in intelligence that boosts safety and productivity. Discover how you can reduce swing, shorten training time, and modernize your crane systems with ease.

4 Undeniable Benefits of Smarter Control: Why Every Modern Car Wash Needs a Smart VFD

Jan 28, 2026

Modern car washes rely on more than just water and speed, they depend on smart control. Discover how VFDs dramatically improve energy efficiency, uptime, and equipment life while giving operators the intelligence and flexibility they need.

How VFDs Revolutionize Pump Speed Control, Energy Efficiency, and Reliability in Liquid Cooling Systems for Data Centers

Dec 03, 2025

The future of data center cooling lies in liquid cooling. In this blog, learn how VFDs deliver smarter energy savings, reliability, and advanced control for high-performance environments.

Florida’s Hurricanes Highlight the Need for Reliable Pump Control

Dec 01, 2025

Florida's hurricanes are more than headlines; they’re lived realities. Read one resident’s story of survival and learn how smarter pump controls can help to protect communities from the devastations caused by future storms.

Why Should I Use a PLC Instead of a DDC for Data Center Control?

Nov 03, 2025

Discover why Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are overtaking Direct Digital Control (DDC) systems in modern data centers. From real-time responsiveness to cybersecurity and scalability, learn how upgrading your control systems can boost uptime, efficiency, and flexibility.

Is Your Car Wash Falling Behind? Find Out Why Top OEMs are Teaming up with Controls Experts.

Oct 13, 2025

Top car wash OEMs are partnering with controls automation experts to boost efficiency, reduce downtime, and stay ahead in a competitive market. Advanced solutions like VFDs, PLCs, and HMIs help car washes meet customer expectations and regulatory demands. Don’t let your business fall behind! Read our blog to learn what to look for in a good controls automation partner.

Calculating ROI: Is Robotic Machine Tending Worth the Investment?

Sep 08, 2025

Make data-driven decisions. Invest more confidently. Understand your machining potential. This article breaks down an ROI equation for robotic machine tending in clear, practical terms, helping machine shop owners understand how automation can reduce labor costs, boost productivity, and future-proof operations.

Why Industrial PLCs are the Right Fit for Liquid Cooling Control Systems

Sep 05, 2025

As AI and high-performance computing push data centers to their thermal limits, liquid cooling and other cooling solutions are essential. Discover why industrial PLCs are the key to unlocking reliable, scalable, and future-ready cooling control in mission-critical environments.

Using VFDs to Convert Single-Phase to Three-Phase Power in Remote Locations

Jul 09, 2025

Are you looking for a solution to run three-phase equipment in remote or off-grid locations with only single-phase power? Discover how Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) offer a modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution, complete with advanced motor control, energy savings, and remote diagnostics. Whether you're on a farm, job site, or small workshop, this blog describes how VFDs can reliably power your operations.

HMI/SCADA Software Replacement – Upgrade Guidelines and Checklist

Jun 19, 2025

Is your HMI/SCADA system holding your operations back? Discover why simply upgrading might not be enough—and how a full replacement can unlock powerful new capabilities like advanced analytics, enhanced cybersecurity, and seamless integration. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to future-proof your industrial automation.

Why Should I Use a VFD Instead of a Soft Starter for Lift Station Pumping?

Jan 23, 2025

Decision makers in lift station pumping systems are left with a crucial decision: choosing between a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) and a soft starter. While both devices control the operation of pumps, they do so in different ways and offer distinct advantages. This article explores those differences and recommends ways to achieve cost and energy savings.

Sustainable Manufacturing: A Practical Approach to Responsible and Efficient Production

Dec 23, 2024

Manufacturing is naturally an area where sustainability is particularly important because it requires large amounts of resources. There are solutions and strategies to modify existing lines to operate more sustainably, from a quality, performance, and compatibility standpoint. In this blog, you will discover tips and resources, supported by case studies, to manufacture more sustainably.

Choosing the Best HMI/SCADA System – Selection Criteria and Guidelines

Apr 04, 2024

Considering a vendor for HMI/SCADA system solutions requires consideration of an extensive list of criteria. HMI/SCADA software varies in unique advantages and disadvantages. Read more to understand the selection guidelines and items to consider when choosing the best HMI/SCADA software for your application.

Industrial Network Selection Criteria

Feb 08, 2024

The selection of an industrial network is pivotal to creating the most competitive machine, production line, or process. Learn how to select the best network based on your criteria and expectations.

CLPA Monthly Roundup: January 2024

Jan 16, 2024

Find out about cutting-edge developments in industrial automation and network technology by checking out the CC-Link Partner Association’s (CLPA) latest articles.

CLPA Monthly Roundup: Bringing Motion Control to the Next Level

Dec 18, 2023

Find out about cutting-edge developments in industrial automation and network technology by checking out the CC-Link Partner Association’s (CLPA) latest articles.

When You Need a Clutch Performer, Rent a Robot

Nov 07, 2023

Most businesses go through production bursts and such circumstances may result in critical short-term labor shortages. Read more on how you can lease a robot to support during production bursts in every facet – from assembly lines to the warehouse.

Streamlining maintenance operations

Nov 03, 2023

For factories, it can be difficult to secure capital investment budgets to purchase new equipment. Learn how predictive maintenance, achieved through IIoT-based solutions and AI technologies, can extend the life of your existing assets to prevent unexpected downtimes and explore customer success stories post-implementation.

FailSafe Servo Safety for All

Sep 26, 2023

It’s no secret that safety is paramount in automated systems. Fortunately, functional safety systems help mitigate or remove potential safety concerns. Learn more about FailSafe capabilities and how your organization can boost the functional safety and performance of automated lines.

Bridging the IT/OT Security Gap

Aug 14, 2023

The need for remote access to machines, lines, and equipment has increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic and as a result, the demand for cybersecurity technologies is heightened. Learn more about this risk and what you can do to ensure your operations are secure.

Time Sensitive Networking Advances Smart Factories

Jan 26, 2023

Case studies show how companies are using CC-Link IE TSN to streamline operations and maximize productivity. Learn how it brings together the multiple network architectures used on most factory floors and in enterprise level networks to improve OT/IT integration.

Three Things to Remember When Building a Data Center

Nov 21, 2022

When it comes to the industrial sector, the COVID pandemic has had a drastic impact in pushing the 'digital' revolution forward, from how we have business meetings to the way we learn to operate factories. This sudden digital shift, together with the latest developments in 5G communication is stimulating needs for more cloud-based and online solutions, which in-turn is motivating huge investments in IT infrastructure such as data centers.

Looking for the best in OPC communications servers

Oct 24, 2022

Takebishi Corporation has partnered with ICONICS to provide customers around the world with high quality OPC communication.

How to Keep P.A.C.E. in CNC Machining

Jun 20, 2022

Creating a good part is table stakes. Winning and keeping customers today requires the kind of operational excellence that’s only possible with digital transformation. Discover what’s now, what’s new, and what’s next in CNC machining.

Capitalize on Future Opportunities by Embracing Smart Automation Now

Apr 20, 2022

Whether you are a supplier, a manufacturer or a distributor, your world is changing at an unprecedented pace. See why companies are implementing smart automation technology to transform change into opportunities for increased performance, visibility, reliability, and flexibility.

4 Manufacturing Automation Lessons Learned During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Mar 22, 2022

In early 2020, the trajectory of life (and work) around the globe took an unexpected turn. At the time of this article's writing (March 2022), we look back on how the COVID-19 pandemic changed the manufacturing industry forever - especially as it comes to the topics of digital transformation, remote work, and supply chain disruptions. How does automation factor into the equation now, and into the future?

Don't Be Reactive, Be Proactive with Preventive and Predictive Maintenance

Feb 17, 2022

Reducing unexpected downtime is a must for manufacturers that want to succeed in today's ultra-competitive market. Reactive maintenance is no longer good enough - it costs time and money you can't afford to spend. This article highlights the benefits of preventive and predictive maintenance, more proactive and effective ways to keep equipment and your business in good health.

E-Waste: It’s Time to Take Notice

Jan 11, 2022

Electronic and electrical waste is increasing every year, thanks to insatiable demand for consumer and commercial devices and equipment. When e-waste is improperly disposed of, it can have a serious effect on the wellbeing of the planet and people around the world. Discover what’s driving the ever-rising volumes of e-waste, and some ways you can make a difference.

Training Tomorrow’s Manufacturing Workforce, Today

Dec 13, 2021

Thanks to digital transformation and the COVID pandemic, the manufacturing skills gap and labor shortage are all too real. The industry desperately needs workers who understand and can operate advanced automation technologies to help manufacturing organizations evolve successfully. Learn how Mitsubishi Electric is helping train tomorrow's leaders today through our Diamondworks! program.

When Just-in-Time Just Doesn’t Work

Nov 29, 2021

Manufacturers have been hit hard since the pandemic, with today's supply chain disruptions wreaking havoc on production and earnings. Smart organizations are beginning to ease off the industry's ultra-lean just-in-time approach to inventory management – and turning toward a more balanced position between risk and resilience. See how you can not only survive during the next big disruption, but thrive.

Make Way For More Flexible, Responsive Packaging Robots

Sep 16, 2021

While robots have been used in packaging enterprises for some time, a new set of pressures is driving the search for greater agility and flexibility to stay competitive. Today’s robotic solutions are doing more than ever to address those needs. Discover how robots are changing the packaging industry and keeping companies afloat.

Decrease Process Time, Improve Outcomes with Advanced Vibration Suppression

Aug 23, 2021

Machine vibration can be a problem and if left uncontrolled can reduce the life of your machinery, slow down production, reduce system performance, and cause parts quality to suffer. Fortunately, many of today’s servo systems offer powerful vibration suppression capabilities that can keep you competitive.

Three Efficiencies to Consider in Water and Wastewater VFD Applications

Jul 14, 2021

VFDs aren’t new in the water treatment industry, but today’s VFDs are offering a range of capabilities that drive energy efficiency, reduce equipment damage, and keep organizations competitive. Read this month’s feature article for three things that can help you get the most out of your VFDs for water and wastewater applications.

Modernize Water Operations to Minimize Costs

Jun 24, 2021

The municipal water sector has been plagued by leaks, lead pipes and lack of capital expenditure. The need for smarter, more resilient and more connected services and solutions has never been greater. Digital water solutions — including hardware, software and services — are the answer.

Reduce Risk of Downtime with a VFD That Eliminates Clogs

May 24, 2021

VFDs have long been used in wastewater treatment plants because they offer a range of efficiency and cost-saving benefits. But today’s VFDs can do even more. See how VFDs are leveraging advanced technology to keep treatment plant pumps clear of clogs and running at peak performance.

Mitsubishi Electric & ICONICS Move SCADA Forward

Apr 20, 2021

The latest SCADA solution from ICONICS and Mitsubishi Electric is now available. ICONICS Suite v10.97 represents a complete upgrade and replacement of MC Works64. It brings new levels of seamless SCADA-based connectivity, while opening a world of new opportunities for IoT, cloud computing, proactive maintenance management and more. Experts from Mitsubishi Electric discuss the features of the new suite and their benefits for customers and end users everywhere.

New Ways to Leverage Industrial Robots

Mar 18, 2021

One-by-one, the barriers to industrial robot adoption are being blown away thanks to a convergence of advanced technologies and the introduction of exciting new technologies and services. Read this month’s feature article to learn about the new industries, the new capabilities and the new possibilities for leveraging industrial robots.

Driving Energy Efficiency

Feb 22, 2021

Electric motors are used pervasively in industry for industrial pumps, electric fans, compressed air systems, conveyors, material handling and more. Most of these motors run at full speed or they’re off. There is no middle-ground, because their speed can’t be altered on their own. As a result, they consume more electricity than required to do the job. Variable frequency drives (VFDs) can mitigate unnecessary power consumption in many industrial and commercial applications by varying the speed (or frequency) of motors.

Integrate Control and Safety and Unlock Hidden Potential

Dec 14, 2020

When it comes to machine design, safety shouldn’t be an afterthought. It should not be something that is added once the production equipment is in place. Rather, comprehensive safety should be built into every component from the beginning to reduce risk upfront and avoid accidents and litigation later.

Real-time industrial Ethernet. It’s real. And it’s really r(E)volutionary.

Nov 17, 2020

Time-sensitive networking (TSN) has been in the news a lot lately. You can understand why if you’ve had to deal with all the different communication standards that co-exist in today’s automation systems.

The Key to Evolutionary IIoT? Backward and Forward Compatibility.

Oct 27, 2020

IIoT integration is a gradual process, so forward migration and compatibility between older and newer industrial automation components is paramount.

Compact AI Brings BIG Benefits to Manufacturers

Sep 29, 2020

Zero unplanned downtime is now a top priority for the majority of manufacturers. Learn how you can make maintenance smarter to drive down costs and protect margins.