Hello once again fellow techies. As the title states this is basic.
First off let's clarify what this post is about. I am going to discuss the process and means of getting signals to any controlable device. This post is intended to be for the very beginner.
Signals are what controls and or delivers data to and from devices. Signals consist of various forms of voltage or current(VoC). A signal can precisely control the speed of a motor or simply turn something on and off. A signal can also tell you if a switch is open or closed or even the pressure in a cylinder. The common factor is the transmission of the VoC to and from the devices.
In the machine control industry, we use miles of wires to transmit our signals. In the communications world you are sure to run into wireless radio signals. I will focus on the wire world.
When you are wiring components together that will be signaling each other, it is good practice to tie all of the commons and grounds to the same potential. This makes sure all components are talking in the same VoC. To do this you simply connect the common side of your components to one place. Generally a ground lug/block. This is especially important if you will be using analog signaling.
Signals can be split into two types. Input or Output. When one device is receiving a signal, the device transmitting the signal to it is considered the outputting device. As with the device receiving the signal is referred to as the inputting device. Hence the Input / Output signal types.
When referring to a devices literature, it will usually state any input requirements, and output designations. By simply connecting a wire between the terminals stated will allow your signals to pass. Always note except in certain exceptional conditions an input will always connect to the opposite devices Output. Just as a devices Output will always connect to the opposite device's input.
It is also good to see what gauge wire the manufacturer specifies to use. By using a conductor(wire) too small it may short open or start a fire(if the signal VoC is high enough). If the conductor is too large the signal may be diluted and or dropped out completely. It is a good practice to follow all manufacturers suggestions as the component was tested for the stated conditions. This will ensure your signals are clean.
Thanks for reading!