Top 5 Control Engineering articles, May 9-15: Salary and career survey, ladder logic, neural network training, more

Articles about the 2016 Salary and Career Survey, ladder logic, neural network training, data acquisition and analysis, and managing automation upgrades were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from May 9-15. Miss something? You can catch up here.

By Chris Vavra May 16, 2016

The top 5 most read articles online, from May 9-15 for Control Engineering covered the 2016 Salary and Career Survey, ladder logic, neural network training, data acquisition and analysis, and managing automation upgrades. Link to each article below. 

1. Control Engineering Salary and Career Survey, 2016

Control Engineering research shows nearly a 5% increase in salaries among respondents to an average of $94,747; analysis of salaries by years with employer shows upward salary pressure for engineering new hires. 

2. Ladder logic 402: Data manipulation and filtering 

Once values from an analog card have been captured, there are methods to filter the data and methods to simulate a filter using Microsoft Excel before it is coded into a PLC. 

3. Neural networks in process control: Neural network training, implementation

Part 2 of this 2-part series covers preparing the dataset for training, neural network model training and validation, implementing a neural network model on a control platform, and human-machine interface (HMI) requirements.

4. Ladder logic 401: Data acquisition and analysis

A programmable logic controller (PLC) is designed to not only provide information on signal levels, but it can also capture data and it can be analyzed, but there are a number of challenges the user faces from a software and logistical standpoint.

5. Managing automation upgrades, retrofits

From minor modifications to major overhauls, an automation system will significantly change during its lifecycle. Good planning, research, and following these guidelines can ensure a successful upgrade.

The list was developed using CFE Media’s web analytics for stories viewed on controleng.com, May 9-15, for articles published within the last two months.  

Chris Vavra, production editor, CFE Media, cvavra@cfemedia.com.


Author Bio: Chris Vavra is web content manager for CFE Media and Technology.