Learn the basics of electrical control from a practical field perspective.
Start with the fundamentals: inputs, outputs, contacts, sensors, and on/off control. This category organizes the basic ideas in an order that is easy to follow for beginners and field workers.
What you can learn in this category
Control systems become much easier to understand when you separate the field devices, the signals, and the PLC logic.
Understand how switches and sensors become inputs, and how lamps, solenoids, and other devices become outputs.
Learn the difference between NO and NC contacts and common signal patterns used in control panels.
Build a simple way to trace signals when checking equipment, PLC inputs, and output devices.
First articles to read
Start with these articles if you are new to electrical control or PLC-based equipment.
What Is a PLC?
Learn what a PLC does and how it connects field devices to control logic.
2Inputs, Outputs, and Control Signals
Understand the relationship between switches, sensors, lamps, solenoids, and PLC signals.
3Sensor Basics
Learn the common types of sensors used in control systems.
4NO and NC Contacts Explained
Understand how contact states are shown in diagrams and ladder logic.
Control Basics articles
These articles cover the basic parts and ideas used around control panels, PLCs, sensors, and field devices.
Relay Basics
Learn how relays switch signals and why they are still important in control panels.
SensorsNPN and PNP Sensors
Understand the difference between sink and source style sensor outputs.
SensorsPhotoelectric Sensor Basics
Learn how photoelectric sensors detect objects using light.
SensorsProximity Sensor Basics
Understand how proximity sensors detect metal objects without contact.
SensorsLimit Switch Basics
Learn how limit switches detect mechanical position in equipment.
PneumaticsReed Switch Basics
Understand how cylinder switches detect actuator position.
SensorsEncoder Basics
Learn how encoders are used to detect position, speed, and rotation.
SensorsLoad Cell Basics
Understand how load cells convert force or weight into an electrical signal.
Motors and drivesInverter Basics
Learn how inverters control motor speed in industrial equipment.
Motors and drivesServo Motor Basics
Understand the basic role of servo motors in positioning control.
ActuatorsIAI RoboCylinder Basics
Learn how electric actuators connect motion control with PLC signals.