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Product Spotlight: Siemens TP700

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

In industrial automation, the Human-Machine Interface (HMI) is the critical bridge between operators and complex machinery. It’s the window into processes, the tool for issuing commands, and the first line of defense for diagnostics. Choosing the right HMI is paramount for efficiency, reliability, and safety.

The Siemens TP700 line (like the 6AV2124-0GC01-0AX0), stand out as a premier choice for demanding applications. The TP700 Comfort Panel is a 7-inch touchscreen device that embodies a perfect blend of powerful performance, stunning visualization, and rugged industrial design. Let’s explore the key features that make it an indispensable tool for modern automation.

Read more: Product Spotlight: Siemens TP700

Key Features

Brilliant High-Resolution Visualization

At the heart of the TP700 is a 7-inch widescreen TFT display with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels (WVGA). Its screen consist of 16.7 million. The display supports true color depth, allowing for incredibly detailed and nuanced graphics. The use of photo-realistic images and smooth gradients make system status intuitive to understand at a glance.

Additionally, the modern widescreen aspect ratio provides more horizontal space for organizing controls, trends, and alarm displays. This reduces the need for navigation and keeping more critical information visible simultaneously.

Connectivity

The TP700 is programmed seamlessly within Siemens’ Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) Portal engineering framework. This unified environment allows for effortless integration and significantly reduces configuration time. The TP700 also comes with a built-in 2-port PROFINET switch. This enables simple daisy-chaining to other devices like PLCs or drives without the need for external switches. The result is easier cabinet wiring. Additionally, it supports other industrial protocols, including PROFIBUS, Modbus, and OPC UA. This makes the TP700 versatile for connecting to a vast ecosystem of third-party devices and IT systems.


Enhanced Security and Data Logging

The TP700 supports extensive user management with various permission levels. Users can control which operators have access to specific functions, parameters, or screens. This ensures security and preventing unauthorized changes. The panel can also store and process data directly on its internal memory or to an external SD card. This is essential for batch processes, quality tracking, and historical analysis for diagnostics and optimization.

TP700 HMI Screen




Who is the TP700 Comfort Panel For?

The Siemens TP700 is the ideal solution for a wide range of mid-to-high-end applications across all industries. One of the first uses that come to mind is machine building. The TP700 brings a high level of control for machines perform tasks like assembling, injection molding, or complex packaging. Another industry that benefits from TP700 is the treatment and processing industry. Think water and waste treatment or chemical processing. The automotive industry is also another obvious choice as the TP700 gives the operator precision access to the assembly robots.

Conclusion

The Siemens TP700 Comfort Panel is more than just an interface; it’s a strategic investment in operational intelligence. By combining a brilliant display, powerful processing, rugged construction, and seamless integration within the TIA Portal, it empowers operators, simplifies processes, and provides the reliability required for 24/7 industrial operation. For engineers and system integrators looking to build advanced, efficient, and future-proof control systems, the TP700 Comfort Panel represents a benchmark in HMI technology.

Looking For a TP700

Are you in the market for a TP700, either new or refurbished? Reach our team of experts and let them help you get your operation running.

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A header graphic for a blog about the most common fear in every U.S. state.

What Are the Most Common Fears in Every U.S. State?

Leanna Cota Leave a comment

From snakes in the grass to things that go bump in the night, fear is a universal experience — but what Americans are most afraid of depends on where they live. To find out which phobias haunt different corners of the country, we surveyed more than 2,400 people to uncover the most common fears in every U.S. state. The results reveal everything from timeless anxieties, such as public speaking, to spooky seasonal terrors, as well as larger societal worries that keep people up at night.

Whether you dread spiders, losing your job, or stepping on stage in front of a crowd, this state-by-state breakdown sheds light on the fears that shape our daily lives — and shows just how much we have in common, even when it comes to what scares us most.

Key Findings

  • More Americans fear public speaking (32.3 %) than snakes (30.7 %).
  • Americans are more afraid of spiders than of exorcisms, possession, or ghosts.
  • Societal fears, such as losing rights or liberties and the fear of nuclear war, dominate in most U.S. states.

Phobias That Haunt Every State

Alt Text: A map of the U.S. showing the most common classic fear or phobia in each state.

Most Common Classic Fears or Phobias Nationwide:

  • Fear of heights — 50.2%
  • Fear of public speaking — 32.3%
  • Fear of enclosed/small spaces — 32.1%
  • Fear of snakes — 30.7%
  • Fear of water (deep water, oceans, etc.) — 24.0%
  • Fear of needles — 13.9%
  • Fear of flying — 12.5%
  • Fear of open/crowded spaces — 11.8%
  • Fear of the dark — 10.8%
  • Fear of blood — 7.3%
  • Fear of holes — 5.8%
  • Fear of dogs — 2.2%
  • Fear of cats — 0.6%

When it comes to everyday phobias, Americans aren’t most worried about snakes or small spaces — it’s heights that top the national list, with just over half of respondents saying they feel uneasy when they’re up high. Right behind are fears that hit closer to home: nearly one in three people fear public speaking (32.3%) or enclosed/small spaces (32.1%). Snakes (30.7%) and deep water (24%) also remain common sources of anxiety, but the data shows that human interaction and environmental context often scare us more than wildlife.

Breaking it down further, Gen Z and millennials are more afraid of public speaking, while Gen X and boomers are more likely to fear snakes or enclosed spaces. Gender differences also emerge: women report higher fear of public speaking, while men more often cite fear of small, confined places. These demographic patterns suggest that life stage and experience play a significant role in determining which anxieties come to the surface.

Regional clusters also reveal distinct phobia “hot spots.” Many southern states report snakes as their leading fear, while midwestern and northeastern states tend to lean toward a fear of claustrophobia. On the West Coast, public speaking is particularly prevalent, perhaps reflecting a cultural emphasis on performance and communication. 

A map of the U.S. showing the most common Halloween or horror-themed fear in each state.

Most Common Halloween or Horror Fears Nationwide:

  • Spiders — 39.9%
  • Exorcisms or possession — 37.1%
  • Dolls (creepy or possessed) — 29.6%
  • Demons — 29.0%
  • Ouija boards — 21.1%
  • Haunted houses — 15.5%
  • Clowns — 14.5%
  • Zombies — 11.8%
  • Ghosts — 11.0%
  • Monsters — 7.2%
  • Vampires — 4.2%
  • Witches — 3.4%

When it comes to spine-chilling fears, spiders crawl into the top spot — nearly 40% of Americans admit they fear the eight-legged creatures more than anything supernatural. This means that in states from California to Texas and across much of the Midwest, arachnophobia far outweighs ghost stories and haunted house scares.

That’s not to say the paranormal doesn’t spook people. Exorcisms and possession take second place nationwide (37.1%), followed by creepy or possessed dolls (29.6%) and demons (29%). Interestingly, these supernatural fears don’t quite eclipse real-world creepy crawlies. Even in states like Oregon and Florida, where dolls dominate as the top horror fear, the broader national data suggests Americans feel more uneasy about what they can see skittering across the floor than what may lurk in the shadows.

Regional quirks add to the mix: Southern states like Georgia and Louisiana often cite possession-related fears, while northern states like Vermont and Wisconsin are more unnerved by eerie dolls. Still, the nationwide dominance of spiders proves that no matter how many horror movies we watch, nothing beats the primal dread of something with eight legs.

Societal Fears Keeping Americans Up at Night

A map of the U.S. showing the most common societal or current events fears in each state.

Most Common Societal Fears Nationwide:

  • Fear of running out of money — 57.9%
  • Fear of losing rights or liberties — 43.0%
  • Fear of nuclear war — 37.6%
  • Fear of natural disasters — 30.7%
  • Fear of climate change — 22.8%
  • Fear of losing your job — 21.8%
  • Fear of losing health insurance — 15.3%
  • Fear of rising housing costs — 14.7%
  • Fear of another pandemic — 13.3%
  • Fear of AI taking over jobs — 11.3%

Beyond phobias and Halloween frights, Americans are grappling with anxieties rooted in the real world. The most pressing concern? Money. Nearly 58% of respondents fear running out of it, making financial insecurity the nation’s top societal fear. Beyond that, more than two in five Americans worry about losing rights or liberties, underscoring a climate of political and cultural unease that spans both red and blue states.

Other modern anxieties also loom large. Over a third of Americans report fearing nuclear war, while about 31% are worried about natural disasters — concerns that often cluster by geography. States along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, for instance, cite hurricanes and flooding as top fears. Meanwhile, states like Oregon, Vermont, and Delaware show higher levels of concern over climate change, reflecting a broader conversation about environmental sustainability.

Employment and stability also weigh heavily: Iowa, Indiana, Rhode Island, and Virginia all list job loss as their biggest societal fear, pointing to economic pressures at the individual level. With additional concerns around rising housing costs, health insurance, and even AI replacing jobs, it’s clear that the nation’s collective unease is sometimes less about monsters in the closet and more about the unpredictable forces shaping daily life.

What Our Fears Say About Us

These insights reveal that while our fears may vary by region, age, or circumstance, they all speak to the human experience of vulnerability. Some are timeless and universal, while others are shaped by culture, politics, or geography; yet all remind us that fear is something we share, even if we don’t always share the same one.

At MRO Electric, we understand that fear can strike when the unexpected happens, particularly when critical equipment fails. That’s why we offer fast, reliable repair and replacement services to keep your operations running smoothly — explore more at MRO Electric. 

Methodology

To identify each state’s most common fear, we surveyed 2,453 Americans between the ages of 18 and 77 across 47 states from August 13–19, 2025. Alaska, North Dakota, and Wyoming were excluded due to limited survey respondents. For classic fears and phobias, the fear of heights was the top response in nearly every state, with the exceptions of Arizona, Kansas, and Mississippi; therefore, the map highlights the runner-up fears instead. Similarly, for societal fears, the fear of running out of money dominated nationwide, except in Colorado, Maine, and Oklahoma, so the map reflects the runner-up fears for those states as well.

ICS Infrastructure in Automation Facilities

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

Industrial automation facilities rely heavily on Industrial Control Systems (ICS) to manage production lines, robotic systems, and machinery. Key components such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and motor drives are essential for operational efficiency. However, as these systems become more interconnected, they face growing cybersecurity risks that can lead to production downtime, safety hazards, and financial losses.

This article explores why securing ICS infrastructure is critical in automation facilities and how manufacturers implement protective protocols to safeguard their control systems.

Read more: ICS Infrastructure in Automation Facilities


Why ICS Security is Critical in Automation Facilities

The importance of ICS security in industrial automation goes beyond just simply protecting company assets. It also ensures employee safety and making sure production runs with minimal disruptions.

Protecting Intellectual Property & Supply Chains

Cyber espionage can steal trade secrets, affecting competitive advantage. A breach in one facility can cascade across the supply chain, delaying deliveries for automotive, pharmaceutical, and electronics industries. Having ICS security monitors and protects from any attacks or leaks of intellectual property.


Key Threats to ICS in Automation Facilities

Listed below are common threats that automation facilities face and their impacts. They highlight the crucial nature of ICS.

ThreatImpact on Automation Systems
RansomwareLocks HMIs, halts PLC operations, demands payment.
Malware (Stuxnet, Triton)Reprograms PLCs, damages motors, sabotages production.
Phishing AttacksGains access to engineering workstations controlling drives.
Insider ThreatsEmployees or contractors misuse access to modify PLC logic.
Unsecured Remote AccessHackers exploit VPNs or default passwords to take over HMIs.
Supply Chain AttacksCompromised firmware updates infect PLCs and drives.

Protocols for Securing ICS in Automation

Every company should systems and protocols in place to be able to respond quickly and effectively to attempts at breaches. Here are some suggested protocols that would help ensure optimal ICS security.

Network Segmentation

By separating OT networks from IT systems, you limit attack points from the outside. Be sure to use
industrial firewalls to filter traffic between PLCs, HMIs, and drives.

Securing Access Controls

By limiting security access to only the most vital roles, not only do you have control over access but also an easier way to determine where security vulnerabilities are. Security tools such as Role-based access control designates levels of access to an individual based on the role assigned to them. Likewise, multi-factor authentication limits remote accessibility for specific instruments like HMI’s to individuals with specific clearance. You can also assign temporary credentials for individuals who need specific access for a specific amount of time.

Security Patches and Firmware

Cybersecurity is a consistently evolving challenge that requires companies to have the most updated security features. This is often done through security firmware in the form of patches and updates. Having the most recent update to your firmware is crucial to making sure your system doesn’t fall victim to an unknown advanced virus or backdoor software.

VPN Encryption

Using a VPN encrypts the IP addresses of your PLC’s making it nearly impossible for a bad actor to gain remote access to them.

Conclusion

Securing ICS infrastructure in automation facilities is not optional—it’s a necessity to prevent operational disruptions, safety risks, and financial losses. By adopting protective protocols such as network segmentation, access controls, and real-time monitoring, manufacturers can defend their PLCs, HMIs, and drives from evolving cyber threats.

Automated Material Handling: Efficiency in a Modern Industry.

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

The modern landscape of industrialization is a chaotic mix of unnatural speed, precise accuracy, and unprecedented efficiency. This in large is thanks to the development of Automated Material Handling (AMH). AMH has emerged as a game-changing technology that optimizes the movement, storage, and control of materials within manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution environments. By leveraging robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced software systems. AMH reduces human intervention, minimizes errors, and enhances productivity.

What is AMH?

In short, AMH refers to the use of computerized and robotic systems to transport, store, and retrieve materials with minimal human involvement. Some examples of these systems include, conveyor systems for fast and efficient transport of materials across warehouses. Self-navigating robots/vehicles that can move materials around autonomous. These robots can also be paired with advanced storage systems to me retrieval a more streamlined process. Additionally robotic arms can quickly and safely pick up items that would normally be too heavy for one person to life. Robotic arms also serve a crucial role in automated assembly.

An example of a warehouse utilizing AMH.

The Importance of AMH

Automated Material Handling is a relatively new system that would make it easy to dismiss. However, in the short time it’s been around, it has made its role in automation absolutely crucial in keeping up with demand. On average, businesses that integrate AMH see about a 7.9% uptick in their annual growth. Of course speed is not the only factor that plays into this growth. Automating material handling reduces labor cost and increases efficiency with less margins of error.

While the initial cost of Automated Material Handling is undeniably high, the reduced labor, saving of space, and higher accuracy count makes it a great long term return on investment (ROI).

On a more technological level, AMH is designed to be scalable and upgradable integrating newer technologies such as AI. As a business grows, the operational space and systems are easily expandable to match that the pace and demands of that business. Likewise, AI-driven analytics ensure live tracking of inventory and orders.

Who Benefits from AMH

When we talk about industries that benefit most from automated material handling, manufacturing and retail tend to be at the forefront of what everyone thinks. AMH speeds up the manufacturing process in times that would take a team much longer to do. At the same time, the retail world utilizes AMH for rapid order fulfillment and warehouse distribution.

However, the pharmaceutical industry also utilizes AMH for handling hazardous materials and other substances. At the same time the food and beverage industry uses automated machine handling to keep their products at safe and preferable temperatures.

Conclusion

Automated Material Handling is no longer a luxury but a necessity for industries aiming to boost efficiency, cut costs, and stay competitive. By integrating AMH solutions, businesses can achieve faster operations, higher accuracy, and a safer work environment—paving the way for a smarter, more automated future.

Need Equipment?

Are you looking to get your automated? Perhaps you already are automated but need to get some parts replaced? Reach out to our team of experts to help connect you with the right equipment to get your operation up and running!

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How to Test a Circuit Breaker

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

Circuit breakers are essential safety devices in any electrical system, protecting your home or workplace from overloading. Over time, they can wear out or malfunction, so it’s important to test them periodically to ensure they’re working correctly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to safely test a breaker.

Read more: How to Test a Circuit Breaker

The Importance of Testing a Circuit Breaker

There are different reasons to test circuit breakers. Where testing is most important, is in the area of safety. Regular testing of circuit breakers maintains safe electrical systems by preventing things like power surges which can damage equipment. Equipment isn’t the only safety concern that prompts regular breaker testing. Routine testing of circuit breakers can prevent fires from occurring.

Tools For Testing

When testing breakers, several tools are vital for conducting test. Among them, the tools most important are insulated gloves and a multi-meter. The insulated gloves are critical in safeguarding you from potential electrical hazards, and the multi-meter is important in circuit breaker diagnostics.

mutli-meters for testing circuit breakers

The Testing Process

Now that you know why and what equipment you’ll need to test, you’ll need to know how to test your circuit breaker. That step begins with turning off and unplugging devices along the circuit that is wired to the breaker. This prevents the security of any device or equipment you don’t want damaged. Once you’ve confirmed everything is unplugged, locate the breaker box. Usually the breaker box is located in places like a garage or basement.

The next step would be to visually scan for any signs of anything being off. That usually looks like burn marks, corrosion, or a tripped breaker. Any breaker that appear damaged should be replaced immediately. With your multimeter set to Voltage, test the breakers and circuits. A normal reading should show 120V for standard home circuits and 240V for larger circuits. A reading of 0 indicates a faulty breaker.

Perform a manual check by switching the breaker to the “ON’ position and then press the “TEST” button, the circuit should trip immediately. After tripping the breaker reset it back into the “ON” position, if it does not reset, then the breaker will need replacing.

If the breaker consistently fails voltage test, or trips without an obvious cause, call a professional electrician.


Conclusion

Testing a breaker is a simple but crucial maintenance task. By following these steps, you can ensure your electrical system remains safe and functional. If you’re unsure or encounter issues, always consult a licensed electrician for professional help.

Dirty Power

One of the biggest contributors to bad circuit breakers is what is commonly known as “dirty power”. More information about dirty power and how to prevent it can be found here.

Teach Pendants in Industrial Automation

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

Through industrial automation, manufacturing has come a long way. The leaps and bounds in speed, precision, safety, and overall efficiency has vastly improved from earlier industrial age. One of the attributions to this success easily goes to the teach pendant. The invention of this handheld controller has allowed operators to program and troubleshoot a lot of problems with ease. In this article, we explore the role of teach pendants in automation, their key features, and their impact on modern manufacturing.

Read more: Teach Pendants in Industrial Automation

What is a Teach Pendant?

A teach pendant is a handheld control terminal used to program and operate industrial robots. It typically consists of a display screen, buttons, joysticks, and emergency stop functions. Operators use teach pendants to manually guide robots through tasks, define movement paths, set parameters, and store instructions for automated operations. This process is where teach pendant derives its name from.

Key Functions of a Teach Pendant

Teach pendants offer a multitude of functions making it possible for them to complete variety of tasks. Here are some examples of the function of teach pendants.

  • Teach pendants allow for easy creation and editing of robotic programs. Waypoint and motion sequences can be recorded for repetitive task such as welding and assembly.
  • Operators can have precise control over equipment movements via joystick or directional buttons.
  • Teach pendants provide real-time feedback, error messages, and system status updates to quickly diagnose issues.
  • Emergency stop buttons and dead-man switches ensure safe operation by halting robot movement instantaneously.
  • Operators can fine-tune speed, torque, and trajectory settings to optimize performance.
Fanuc Teach Pendant

Advantages of a Teach Pendant

Teach pendants bring with them a lot of advantages that generally do not come with traditional control systems. For starters, teach pendants are made to be easily user-friendly and intuitive making it easy to train someone on. There’s a level a flexibility that they offer when it comes to programming and changing production settings. An operator can adjust between high and low volume production outputs.

Teach Pendant Types

  • Wired Teach Pendants – Connected directly to the robot controller, ensuring reliable communication.
  • Wireless Teach Pendants – Offer greater mobility but may have latency or interference concerns.
  • Brand-Specific Pendants – Companies like FANUC, ABB, KUKA, and Yaskawa design proprietary pendants tailored to their robots.
ABB Teach Pendant

Conclusion

Teach pendants remain indispensable in industrial automation, bridging the gap between human operators and robotic systems. As technology advances, these devices will continue to enhance productivity, safety, and adaptability in smart factories worldwide.

By understanding their functionality and benefits, manufacturers can maximize the potential of robotic automation and stay competitive in an increasingly automated industry.

In Need of a Teach Pendant

With a large selection of FANUC, ABB, and KUKA teach pendants, we should have controller that fits your operating needs. Reach out to our team of experts and let us help you optimize your automation experience.

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Learn About Servo Amplifiers

If you’d like to learn more about servo amplifiers, you read more about them here!

The Basics on AC Drives

Ken Cheng Leave a comment

AC drives, also known as variable frequency drives (VFDs) or adjustable speed drives (ASDs), are essential components in modern industrial and commercial applications. They control the speed and torque of AC motors by varying the frequency and voltage of the power supplied to the motor. This capability enhances energy efficiency, reduces mechanical stress, and improves process control.

In this article, we will explore what AC drives are, their key components, how they work, and their benefits in various applications.

Read more: The Basics on AC Drives

What is an AC Drive?

In short, an AC drive is an electronic device that regulates the speed and performance of an alternating current (AC) motor. Unlike traditional fixed-speed motors, AC drives allow for precise control over motor speed, acceleration, and deceleration, making them ideal for applications where varying speeds are necessary.

To better understand an AC Drive, we need to think about it in terms of “what makes up an AC Drive” and “How it works”.

The key components of an AC Drive consist of a Rectifier, that converts AC supply to DC voltage. Capacitors that filter and stabilize DC voltage. An inverter that uses pulse-width modulation (PWM) to recreate an AC waveform. Adjustable output controls like a variable switch. This controls AC output and motor speeds.

Example of AC drive.

You can read ore detailed information about AC drives here.

What are the Benefits of AC Drives?

While the upfront cost of installing an AC drive seems high, benefit of long terms savings make investing in an AC drive, a no brainer. Long term savings stands as the biggest benefit of having an AC drive. AC drives manage power consumption of your overall operation making sure your machines are using only the base load requirements. This improved regulation of energy also means less mechanical and electronic stress on your equipment resulting in increased longevity of your machine. The diminished stress also means less maintenance needed which translates to more savings!

Common Applications

AC drives do a lot of behind-the-scenes task that many do not really recognize. However, when you realize how many industries rely on automation, the importance that AC drives have becomes very apparent. Some obvious ones like manufacturing and energy where AC drives get used to run machines like conveyor belts or wind turbines. Some lesser known applications could include water treatment where AC drives an be used to control pumps. AC drives are also used in HVAC systems to control fans, pumps, and compressors for better energy efficiency.

Conclusion

AC drives play a crucial role in modern motor control systems, offering energy efficiency, precise speed regulation, and improved operational performance. By understanding how they work and their benefits, industries can optimize their processes, reduce costs, and enhance equipment longevity.

Whether in manufacturing, HVAC, or renewable energy, AC drives continue to revolutionize motor control, making them indispensable in today’s automated world.

In Need of an AC Drive?

Are you in need of replacing or getting a new AC drive? Let our team of experts help you find a product right for you. Reach out to us and let us help you get your operation up and running!

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If you’d like to know more about Fanuc AC drives, you can read more about them here.