Category: Industrial manufacturing

V-Series Smart Editor Recipes for Faster Startups and Smoother Operations

Recipes are one of the most important roles an HMI can perform. The ability to quickly move data in and out of an HMI speeds up startup, everyday operations, and system maintenance. Fortunately, Monitouch HMIs have a robust recipe handling system that enables data to be transferred from both internal memory and external storage, such as a USB flash drive or integrated SD card reader.

In this blog, we cover the basics of setting up a simple recipe that loads values to individual internal memory addresses as part of an ongoing series on recipes with Monitouch HMIs.

From Automation to Autonomy: Reflections on Rockwell’s Fair

Every year, Rockwell’s Automation Fair gives us a chance to step back, take stock of where the industry is heading, and reconnect with the ideas shaping the next wave of manufacturing. This year in Chicago, the message was unmistakable:

We are moving from Automation to Autonomy

And it’s not just marketing language. It’s a shift that touches everything — from how systems are designed and how operators engage with them, to how integrators like Live Automation deliver value.

Monitouch V-Series HMI Non-Volatile Memory: Assigning SRAM

Non-volatile memory is essential for storing critical data. It allows for persistent configurations and direct data access of the persistent without having to rely on external media. These advantages come with the Human-Machine Interface (HMI), meaning any external media does not have to be cared for or warrantied.

Every Monitouch HMI comes with more than a hundred kilobytes of Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), whose data is maintained by a coin cell battery in the rear of the HMI. This area is used for Logging and Alarms, but the programmer can also use it for saving everything from recipes to machine configurations. In this blog, we will cover how to assign SRAM to be used as an internal memory device and a simple use case with a Macro.

What Is a PLC and Why Quality PLC Programming Is Critical

If you’ve ever walked through a manufacturing facility and seen a machine come to life at the push of a button, chances are a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) was behind the scenes making it all happen. Think of a PLC as the brain of an automated system—taking in inputs, making decisions based on logic, and then triggering outputs that control everything from motors and valves to lights and sensors (and more).

Mastering Alarm Setup on a Fuji Monitouch V10 Series HMI

Alarming is one of the most crucial functions an HMI performs, enabling easier troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and a focus on machine health. Alarming on a Monitouch V Series HMI has an incredible depth of functionality, from code execution to emailing detailed reports. In this blog, we will be covering the basics of setting up an alarm and informing the user.

From PLC to Trendline: Data Logging with Fuji Monitouch V10 HMIs

One of the most common and powerful tasks an HMI can handle is the logging of information (data) from connected devices such as PLCs, VFDs, sensors, etc. Logged information can be used to generate trend graphs, export records for analysis, and troubleshoot alarms or machine failures – ultimately supporting continuous improvement across operations.

Lost in the Alphabet Soup? A Real-World Manufacturing Guide

The world of Industrial Automation runs on a special kind of alphabet soup. PLC, HMI, SCADA, VFD… these aren’t just letters; they’re the language of the plant floor. While the engineering textbooks give you one definition, we all know they have a second, unwritten meaning—the one you learn at 2 AM when a line goes down.

Effortless VNC Setup for V-Series HMI: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ever found yourself frustrated by unexpected machine issues while you’re unable to see it from your desk or office? You’re not alone! In today’s highly digital and continuously expanding manufacturing environment, remote access capabilities are no longer optional but essential to keeping frontline operations flowing smoothly. In this blog, we cover how to connect to a Fuji Electric Monitouch V10 HMI using the Virtual Network Computing (VNC) protocol. This protocol allows users to access and/or operate the Human-Machine Interface (HMI) screen remotely without needing to be physically present at the machine. All you need is a network connection, so plug in and let’s get started.

Powering the Future of Automation Through Innovation & Partnership

At Live Automation (LIVE), we believe the future of industrial automation lies in strong partnerships and shared innovation. That’s why we’re proud to be a founding member of the ONDEX Automation Platform-a powerful ecosystem built to accelerate growth, streamline collaboration, and unlock smarter, more scalable solutions across the industry.

As automation continues to evolve, so do the demands placed on integrators, OEMs, and manufacturers. Digital Transformation, edge connectivity, cybersecurity, and data interoperability are no longer “nice to have”-they’re essential. The ONDEX platform was designed with exactly that in mind.

ICS Security Solutions to Protect Critical Business Operations

“The computer running the water treatment plant hasn’t been touched in 20 years.”

This statement would make any IT professional cringe given that security risks have been a concern of IT departments for decades, as their foundations are built on innovation and security, the need to constantly evaluate technology, remain compliant, and take measures to stay ahead of potential breaches. So when there’s a computer that has not been assessed and updated in 20 years, it’s basically an open door to a cybersecurity attack, one that could shake a business to its core, and along with it, customer faith and shareholder confidence. Read more