maxon has enhanced its ESCON2 speed and current controller with CANopen communications. The update is available with new firmware and applies to controllers already in use as well as new products. ESCON2 operates with DC and brushless DC (BLDC) motors. Additional firmware developments have also improved the device's speed control capabilities.

Rockwell Automation has announced the launch of the M100 Electronic Motor Starter, enabling industrial organisations to simplify panel wiring and reduce component and engineering complexities with advanced functional safety solutions and more refined motor starting capabilities.

Innovation in stepper motor technology means the gap between stepper and servo technology is narrowing. The new, optimised EMMB-ST and EMMT-ST stepper motor family from Festo can be used in conjunction with the CMMT-ST servo drive controller to create a coordinated servo system at an attractive price.

The latest smart heavy duty encoders developed by sensor specialist Baumer are said to be ideal for demanding heavier industrial applications, such as aggregates, steel, materials handling, ports, cranes and paper mills. They meet the needs of monitoring applications which include asynchronous motors.

OMRON has celebrated the grand opening of a new Automation Centre in Stuttgart, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, excellence and customer-centric solutions in industrial automation.

Motion Control Products (MCP) is excited to introduce the AK Series EtherCAT Bus Motion Controllers with I/O module expansion from Kinco, offering a new generation of medium-sized motion control systems.

WEG is set to showcase its latest innovations at SPS Italia 2025, taking place from May 13 to 15 in Parma, Italy. WEG will highlight its advancements in motion drives, control solutions and digital technologies, reinforcing its commitment to improving industrial efficiency across key sectors such as metal, plastic, logistics, water and paper.

Traditionally, industrial automation has relied on multi-cable systems, but single-cable systems can simplify things immensely, helping manufacturers achieve greater efficiency, reduce material usage and futureproof their operations, explains Chris Knight, product specialist - I/O at Beckhoff UK.

Drive solutions from NORD DRIVESYSTEMS increase the efficiency in system operation at several points in the packaging process chain. With two concepts, the company mainly focuses on the fields of end-of-line packaging and primary packaging, where its decentralised drive technology and wash-down-capable aluminium housings achieve significant cost benefits.

In manufacturing, connectivity between devices is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Here Beth Ragdale, software business manager at automation and control specialist, Beckhoff, explores how plant managers can ensure that their entire operation speaks the same language.