How To Category - Progressive Automations Blog

When selecting electrical and mechanical components, understanding the meaning of their IP rating is essential to ensure their suitability for real-world environments. This guide explains how IP ratings work, how to interpret them correctly, and how to choose the appropriate protection level for your application. What Does an IP Rating Mean? So, what does IP rating mean in practical terms? When people ask what IP ratings are, they’re referring...

At Progressive Automations, we offer many options for controlling your linear actuator. From simple solutions like rocker switches to our more advanced control boxes for handling multiple actuators, we have many plug-and-play choices. However, sometimes project requirements and customer needs are a little more unique than what these options can offer. This is where microcontrollers can really be our friends. In this article, we will be going o...

The main difference is that a brushed motor uses physical brushes and a commutator to deliver electrical current to the motor windings, while a brushless motor (BLDC) uses electronic controllers instead of brushes to switch electrical current within the windings. For brushed motors, the design is simple, cost-effective, and provides good torque at low speeds, but it causes friction and wear over time, requiring regular maintenance. Brushless m...

The most common electrical linear actuator used in the industry today is the 12VDC version. The function of a linear actuator is quite simple; it moves an object in a linear motion. Depending on how the unit is wired, one can control it in many different ways. In this article, we will go over wiring a 12-volt linear actuator to a rocker switch and control box along with a basic understanding of how an actuator works.

When it comes to automation projects, selecting the right actuator is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Whether you’re designing an industrial machine, upgrading home automation, or creating a custom project, choosing the wrong actuator can lead to costly mistakes — from poor performance to premature failure. At Progressive Automations, we’ve seen it all. From customers who needed a quick replacement for a 12V linear actuator to...

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in demand for locally made adjustable beds, as customers seek enhanced comfort and convenience. These innovative designs use actuators to adjust the bed's position, improving sleep quality and user convenience. However, choosing the appropriate actuator can be challenging due to various technical and practical considerations. This guide helps automotive and technical professionals avoid ty...