Create a Machine Training Video with this Hack

Creating a training video for your HMI doesn’t have to be difficult. Here’s an easy hack.

If you’ve ever wanted to create an instructional machine training video for one of your HMIs to use in operator training but aren’t sure how to go about doing that, we have a simple hack for you–actually, two.

Close up of an EA7-T6CL HMI from Automation Direct. There are simple ways to create machine training videos for HMIs.
The EA7-T6CL HMI from Automation Direct.

The first hack is to use software that allows you to record the screen of your computer and edit it as you need to, like OBS Studio or Flashback Recorder. This type of software will allow you to easily record, edit, and share your machine training video even if you have little video production experience. Many of these software platforms have free versions that are entirely adequate to create your training video, as well as premium versions with more bells and whistles, like the ability to record from several monitors, add a watermark to protect your work, and to create a higher performance recording.

The second hack is to use the Game mode on your computer. This only works if you are running Windows 10, as it was a new feature with the Creators Update. But once you’ve activated this built-in tool you will have the option to record by pressing the red record button. You can toggle this button again to stop recording or use the Windows Key plus Alt+T. Then you can record the screen as you access the HMI remotely. Videos are automatically saved in your Videos\Captures folder as .mp4 files. There is also an option in settings that allows you to toggle on background recording.

If you need to repair or replace your current HMIs or PLCs, contact AX Control for more information.

AX Control Inc has a wide variety of surplus and reconditioned HMIs in stock.


Need replacements for legacy HMIs? We can help with that! Talk to our team today.

Hacks for Working From Home

We know many of you have employees working remotely, so we’ve created this Infographic focusing on some hacks for working from home. These quick tips should help with productivity during this difficult time.

Feel free to use and share.

Download a hi-res PDF of this file below.
Hacks-working-from-home-1Download

The AX Control team is ready to help with all your industrial automation part needs. Let us know what you need and we’ll have it boxed and on its way to you in a few hours.

Covid-19 and Business Operations Now

It’s safe to say Covid-19 and business operations don’t mix. As the world deals with this pandemic, many companies have moved their workforce to stay-at-home protocols, allowing employees the option to work virtually.   But most manufacturers are exempt from these mandates due to the nature of their business. In fact, as vast economic sectors stutter to a near-stop, the world is looking toward manufacturers to step up production and respond to the crisis with quick production of scarce and necessary items.  

The industry has answered this call.  In the last few weeks, additive manufacturers have begun producing ventilator parts, test swabs, and face shields even as whiskey manufacturing plants change over to making sanitizer.  Automotive manufacturers have even changed over some factory machinery so they can provide medical masks and other necessary equipment rather than making automotive parts or cars. 

As our industry deals with these unprecedented changing workplace and economic challenges, many are balancing several different concerns. This includes how to keep employees safe and how to continue meeting existing customer needs while also satisfying the needs of new customers.   How to maintain the economic stability and flexibility necessary for continued business operations while achieving those goals is also a goal. Manufacturers are simply trying to keep their doors open as demand for their products decreases or their supply chain becomes temporarily knotted. Trying to balance this with a temporary revenue loss can be challenging, especially while maintaining regular operations and staffing levels. What should you be doing in the short term as we all work our way through these issues? 

Covid-19 and Business Operations: Customer Outreach

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