Executive Summary
Today’s industrial automation developments showcase significant technical advancements across multiple domains, addressing both operational efficiency and security challenges. Key highlights include ABB’s strategic Automation Extended program enabling disruption-free DCS modernization, Parker Hannifin’s major software release introducing advanced torque and force control modes for servo drives, Beckhoff’s expanded EtherCAT analog terminal portfolio with 16-bit resolution for precision measurement, Festo’s safety-integrated servo drives achieving PL e/SIL 3 certification, and critical OT/ICS security gaps revealed in recent energy sector cyber incidents. These developments collectively illustrate the industry’s commitment to innovation in safety, precision, and cybersecurity as industrial operations evolve toward more intelligent and resilient capabilities.
1. ABB Launches Automation Extended Program for Disruption-Free DCS Modernization
Date: February 11, 2026
Source: memuknews.com, ABB Official Communications
Technical Focus: Distributed Control Systems, Separation-of-Concerns Architecture
ABB’s Automation Extended program enables industrial facilities to modernize legacy distributed control systems without operational disruption. The architectural framework employs a separation-of-concerns design with two distinct environments: the control environment for deterministic process control and the digital environment for advanced analytics and AI integration. Technical implementation includes OPC UA backbone integration and cloud-native architecture with containerized services.
Technical Specifications:
- Dual-environment architecture: control layer (deterministic) and digital layer (analytics/AI)
- OPC UA backbone for secure communication
- Containerized services for scalability
- Progressive technology adoption without production interruption
Industry Implications:
- Enables phased modernization of DCS systems
- Provides structured pathway for integrating new capabilities
- Supports digital transformation in metals and process industries
2. Parker Hannifin Releases Major Software Update for PSD Servo Drives
Date: February 4, 2026
Source: industrialtechnology.co.uk, Parker Hannifin Technical Documentation
Technical Focus: Servo Drive Control Algorithms, Torque/Force Control
Parker Hannifin has announced a significant software release for its PSD servo drive family, focused on “Intelligent Drive” capabilities. The update introduces dedicated Torque Control and Force Control modes designed for precision applications including push, press, and winding operations. Technical advancements include Open-loop Torque Control with dynamic switching between current and position control, and Force Control utilizing sensor input for closed-loop regulation with ±0.1% accuracy.
Control Mode Specifications:
- Torque Control Mode: Dynamic switching based on measured feedback
- Force Control Mode: Closed-loop regulation with sensor input, ±0.1% accuracy
- GearInPos Function: Precise positional alignment synchronization
- MoveSuperImposed Function: Relative superimposed movement on moving axes
Application Benefits:
- Enhanced throughput and accuracy in demanding industrial applications
- Simplified implementation of complex motion strategies
3. Beckhoff Expands EtherCAT Portfolio with High-Density Analog I/O Terminals
Date: February 3, 2026
Source: control.com, Beckhoff Automation Technical Documentation
Technical Focus: Analog Input/Output, 16-bit Resolution, High-Density Connectivity
Beckhoff Automation has introduced seven new compact, high-density analog I/O EtherCAT terminal modules featuring 16-bit resolution for precision measurement applications. The expanded portfolio includes specialized solutions for voltage and current measurement with ±0.05% full-scale accuracy. Design advantages include optimized thermal management and enhanced wiring efficiency.
Technical Specifications:
- Resolution: 16-bit (65,536 levels), upgrade from previous 12-bit models
- Signal Ranges: 10V/20mA or -20mA/0mA/4-20mA, individually configurable
- Channel Configurations: 2, 4, and 8-channel models for input, output, and combined I/O
- Accuracy: ±0.05% full-scale at 25°C
- Overrange Capability: ±107% of nominal range (NAMUR NE43 compliant)
Application Context:
- High-precision measurement for process control optimization
- Quality assurance testing with enhanced resolution capabilities
4. Festo Servo Drives Achieve PL e/SIL 3 Functional Safety Certification
Date: February 2, 2026
Source: pandct.com, Festo Technical Documentation
Technical Focus: Performance Level e, Safety Integrity Level 3, Motion Control Safety
Festo’s CMMT-AS-MP-S3 servo drive series has received comprehensive certification for Performance Level e (PL e) and Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL 3) compliance, representing the highest safety standards for motion control applications. The integrated safety architecture combines high-performance motion control with extended functional safety capabilities, eliminating the need for external safety modules.
Safety Certification Details:
- PL e according to ISO 13849-1: Category 4, DCavg ≥ 99%
- SIL 3 according to IEC 61508: PFH < 10^-7/hour
- Integration Standards: IEC 61800-5-2 for adjustable speed drive systems
- Global Compatibility: Support for ATEX and IECEx certifications
Operational Advantages:
- Simplified safety system design with reduced component count
- Enhanced reliability through integrated monitoring and diagnostics
5. Recent Energy Sector Cyber Incidents Highlight Critical OT/ICS Security Gaps
Date: February 10, 2026
Source: CISA Cybersecurity Advisories, Industry Security Reports
Technical Focus: Operational Technology Security, Industrial Control Systems Protection
Recent cybersecurity incidents affecting energy sector infrastructure have revealed significant gaps in OT/ICS security implementation despite increased industry awareness. Analysis indicates vulnerabilities in unprotected legacy systems, insufficient segmentation between IT and OT networks, and limited detection capabilities for sophisticated attacks.
Security Assessment Findings:
- Detection Capabilities: Majority of incidents detected within 24 hours
- Threat Landscape: Increasing frequency of ransomware attacks targeting critical infrastructure
- Regulatory Compliance: NERC CIP, TSA directives, and EU NIS2 requirements driving security improvements
Mitigation Strategies:
- Implement zero-trust architecture principles for OT environments
- Deploy continuous monitoring solutions with anomaly detection
- Establish validated restoration procedures with regular testing
Technical Trends and Industry Outlook
Today’s industrial automation developments highlight critical technical and strategic trends:
1. Modernization Without Disruption
Integrated architectural approaches enable progressive technology adoption while preserving existing system investments, balancing innovation requirements with operational stability.
2. Precision Control Advancements
High-resolution measurement capabilities combined with advanced control algorithms enhance process optimization, quality assurance, and operational efficiency.
3. Safety Integration Convergence
Functional safety certification at the highest levels through integrated architectures simplifies system design while meeting stringent regulatory requirements.
4. Cybersecurity Resilience Focus
Critical infrastructure protection demands enhanced OT/ICS security capabilities, including comprehensive threat detection, rapid incident response, and validated restoration procedures.
Looking Forward:
These trends indicate increasing sophistication in balancing performance, safety, security, and economic considerations as industrial automation continues evolving toward more intelligent, resilient, and sustainable operational capabilities throughout 2026 and beyond.
References and Sources
- memuknews.com – “ABB Introduces Automation Extended Program”
- industrialtechnology.co.uk – “Parker Announces Major Software Release for PSD Servo Drives”
- control.com – “Beckhoff Launches Seven New EtherCAT Analog Terminals”
- pandct.com – “Festo’s New CMMT-AS-S3 Servo Drive Combines Motion Control and Extended Safety Features”
- CISA Cybersecurity Advisories – “Poland Energy Sector Cyber Incident Highlights OT/ICS Security Gaps”
- ABB Technical Documentation – “Automation Extended Program Technical Specifications”
- Parker Hannifin – “PSD Servo Drive Software Release Notes”
- Beckhoff Automation – “EL4374 Technical Data Sheet”
- Festo – “CMMT-AS-MP-S3 Safety Certification Documentation”