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Hallfield Controls Inc. | Controls Engineering | Big Lake MN

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Technologies

Control System Technologies for Custom Automation

At Hallfield Controls, we work with a broad range of control system technologies, including PLC HMI platforms, for customers who need more than a vendor tied to one hardware standard. We support electrical engineers and industrial engineers on custom systems where platform choice must match the application, the plant environment, and the long-term support plan. 

Our goal is not to push a single brand, but to apply the right technology to the problem so the finished system is easier to integrate, troubleshoot, and commission. 

PLC and HMI Platforms We Program

Because Hallfield Controls supports complex, one-off, integration-heavy systems, our team routinely works across multiple programming environments and hardware families. In many cases, customers already have a preferred platform. In others, we help select the best option based on application needs, existing standards, and technical constraints. This is especially valuable for teams that need outside controls expertise without being forced into a narrow product ecosystem. 

Our PLC and HMI experience includes major platforms such as:

  • Allen-Bradley
  • Siemens
  • GE
  • Horner
  • AutomationDirect 

We also support projects involving legacy PLC upgrades, HMI replacements, brand conversions, motion control integration, and mixed-platform systems where multiple technologies need to work together reliably. 

  • Machine Breakdown and Troubleshooting: We offer expert-level resolution for failed automation components.
  • Automation Upgrades and Modernization: We help you redesign or upgrade outdated control systems to improve equipment longevity and overall system efficiency.
  • Machine Safety Upgrades: Our team implements controls-related safety improvements and interface updates to support safer, more reliable equipment operation.
  • Capacity Augmentation: We act as an outsourced electrical engineering department when your internal team is at maximum capacity or lacks specific controls expertise.

Beyond PLCs: PC-Based, Embedded, Motion, and Safety Technologies

Hallfield Controls supports PC-based control applications using Visual Studio C#, Visual Basic .NET, and National Instruments LabVIEW for systems involving data acquisition, reporting, SQL integration, and web services. 

When an application demands both high-speed measurement and rugged plant automation, very few engineering firms can combine high-speed National Instruments hardware with industrial platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and GE in a practical, supportable way, but Hallfield Controls can.

We also work with:

  • Embedded platforms such as Windows 10 IoT, STW Technic, and Rabbit Semiconductor.
  • Motion control platforms from ABB, Allen-Bradley, Siemens, IAI, Emerson Control Techniques, and others.
  • Data acquisition hardware from National Instruments, Advantech, Agilent, and Intelligent Instrumentation.
  • Machine safety technologies from Banner Engineering, Phoenix Contact, and Siemens.

Technology Choices That Support Real-World Operation

At Hallfield Controls, we focus on how platforms perform in actual systems, how they fit with engineering and design, and how they support long-term troubleshooting and commissioning. That means choosing technologies that reduce startup risk, improve serviceability, and align with the customer’s installed base wherever possible.

Why Choose Hallfield Controls?

Engineering-First Platform Selection

We choose technologies based on the application, not brand loyalty, so customers get solutions that fit real system requirements.

Broad Platform Experience

We support PLC, HMI, PC-based, embedded, motion, data acquisition, and safety technologies across major industrial platforms.

Stronger Support for Mixed and Legacy Environments

We help customers work through upgrades, conversions, and multi-platform systems without forcing unnecessary standardization.

Rare Capability in High-Speed and Plant Integration

Our ability to combine National Instruments and PC-based control with plant-floor automation gives customers access to a highly specialized skillset.

Discuss Your Control System Technology Requirements with Hallfield Controls

If you need support selecting, integrating, or programming PLC HMI platforms for a custom system, Hallfield Controls is ready to help. 

Contact our team at (763) 360-9875 to request an engineering consultation, schedule a technical review, or discuss your project requirements with us.