A growing number of manufacturers are moving from air tools to electric tools and from corded electric tools to cordless tools.

In 1987, Apple Computer Inc. introduced FireWire. It was the first direct-connect digital interface (IEEE1394) and standard (DCAM) on the market.

Component interoperability for PC-based vision systems has come a long way in a short time. The main reason for this quick evolution is interface standards, which the AIA, a machine vision trade group, began introducing in 2000.

I have included the issue in which each column appeared so you can delve into the topic in more detail if desired. As always, please feel free to contact me with your questions, comments or observations.

Mennie precision-machines transmission and fuel-system parts and assemblies used in mission-critical applications. Customers include Caterpillar, Bosch Rexroth, Saur-Danfoss, Eaton Hydraulics, Poclain Hydraulics, Allison Transmission, American Axle and Cummins.

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software gathers and disseminates critical management information across your entire organization.

Fixed automation systems and conventional blind robots have a role in automated assembly, but it’s limited.

Lithium-ion batteries have been used in portable consumer electronics for decades, primarily because they offer excellent energy density, no memory effect and a slow loss of charge when not in use.

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in North America and the leading type of cancer found in males.

Reshoring is a welcome trend, but maintaining product quality will not be a given.